Moving home may feel like a stressful experience, but with some careful planning and a few smart strategies, it doesn’t have to be. From getting an early start to sorting through your belongings, using a checklist and lining up some help, being organised is essential. Whether you’re moving countries, to a new state, or just around the corner, these 5 tips will help you move home like a pro and settle into your new space with ease.

Start early

The key to a successful move is to start preparing early. A few weeks before your move, get your packing supplies together and write a list of what needs to be packed in each room.

• Start with items you use the least and pack by room to make unpacking easier.
• Pack away non-essentials or out of season clothing to give yourself plenty of time.
• Dedicate an hour or two a day to get your packing done.
• Pack a box with all the essential items you’ll need for the first few days in your new home.

Declutter and prioritise

Moving is the perfect time to go through your things and decide what you really need and what you’re holding onto unnecessarily. Not only will de-cluttering lighten your load, but it could help cut moving costs if you’re hiring a moving company.

• As you pack, sort your items into "keep," "donate," or "discard" piles to help streamline the process.
• Donate or sell items that no longer serve a purpose and consider it a fresh start.
• Separate the essentials you’ll need immediately in your new home including basic kitchenware, toiletries, and an overnight bag.
• If you’re downsizing your living space, a self-storage unit can help you keep your things safe and clean, while creating more storage space in your new home.

Label and checklist

When it comes to unpacking in your new home, being organised can help make the process much easier. Labelling boxes by room and contents, and keeping a checklist of what’s inside each box, will save time and energy when you unpack.

• Pack similar items together based on room or use, and number boxes or colour-code by room to make it easier for the movers to identify where each box goes on arrival.
• Keep a checklist of boxes and contents for easy reference and to check everything arrives in your new home.
• Mark fragile or heavy items clearly to ensure these are handled carefully without injury or breakages.

Get some help

Moving alone can be a tough job, so reach out to friends and family for some extra help. Hiring professional movers can take the load off (literally), and for a more hands-off experience, consider a packing service to pack and move from start to finish.

• Hire professionals to help with the heavy lifting.
• Be on hand to direct the movers as they load and unload.
• Remember to check if your house insurance covers your belongings during your move.

Update your details

Lastly, don’t forget to update your address to make sure your mail gets forwarded to your new home. Make a list of all your service providers, financial institutions and subscriptions, and update your new address online or have your mail redirected while you arrange to update your new details.

For more helpful advice about buying and selling property, getting a home loan or refinancing your mortgage, check out the Mortgage Express website.

While all care has been taken in the preparation of this publication, no warranty is given as to the accuracy of the information and no responsibility is taken by Finservice Pty Ltd (Mortgage Express) for any errors or omissions. This publication does not constitute personalised financial advice. It may not be relevant to individual circumstances. Nothing in this publication is, or should be taken as, an offer, invitation, or recommendation to buy, sell, or retain any investment in or make any deposit with any person. You should seek professional advice before taking any action in relation to the matters dealt within this publication. A Disclosure Statement is available on request and free of charge.

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