Moving house is a big milestone. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing or simply moving to a new location, the process comes with a long list of to-dos. A well-prepared moving house checklist takes the stress out of it, helping you stay organised and in control. Plus then you can get others to help (whether that be friends, family or a paid professional!) 

This guide is built for people who want a straightforward moving home checklist. It covers everything from paperwork and packing to professional services you may need along the way.

Why you need a moving house checklist

Without a plan, moving can quickly spiral into stress, and being organised means that everything is more likely to go to plan. I mean, it’s likely something might go wrong, but with a checklist, that's less likely, right?! 

A clear moving prep list helps you:

• Save time and reduce last-minute rushing.
• Keep on top of paperwork and legal requirements.
• Ensure nothing is forgotten during packing or cleaning.
• Transition smoothly into your new home.

So let’s get started…

What to do 6 weeks before you move:

Start early to avoid the time crunch and reduce your stress! 

• Book your removalist or moving van: Weekends and end-of-month slots fill up quickly. You can hire these on Bark and they tend to be around $110 - $200 per hour.
• Declutter your home: Heard of the Marie Kondo effect? It’s time to go through your belongings and donate, sell or recycle anything you don’t want to bring with you. Remove anything that doesn’t bring you joy. This will make moving so much easier! 
• House cleaning: Book an end of tenancy clean (if you’re moving out of a rented property) or schedule a cleaner to give your home a deep clean when you arrive at your new house!  Sort your legal paperwork: Speak with a professional will writer and property lawyer to ensure you are secure with your property rights. 
• If you’re a parent, don’t forget to notify schools or childcare (and start arranging transfers if needed).

What to do 4 weeks before you move:

You’re only one month out, make sure to focus on the essentials.

Update your address, notify:

- Medicare 
- ATO
- Centrelink 
- Your bank(s)
- Insurance providers

• Redirect your mail. Australia Post offers flexible redirection services.
• Set up utilities. Schedule your electricity, gas, water and internet connections.
• Begin packing. Start with non-essentials like books and seasonal items.

What to do 2 weeks before you move:

Now it’s about the details, this is where organisation comes into play the most! 

• Confirm your removalist booking. Double-check times and access points.
• Finalise legal matters. If selling, settling or renting, a lawyer or solicitor can help ensure everything runs smoothly.
• Organise pet care. Keep moving day less stressful for animals.

1 week before you move:

The countdown is on.

• Pack an essentials box. Include toiletries, bedding, chargers and important documents.
• Defrost the fridge/freezer. Allow at least 48 hours.
• Confirm key handover. Line up times with real estate agents or landlords.
• Label your boxes. Use colour coding by room for easier unpacking.

Moving day checklist

Your moving out checklist for the big day:

• Do a final sweep of cupboards, sheds and garages.
• Carry passports, jewellery and valuables with you.
• Record final meter readings (a photo is handy).
• Hand over keys, garage remotes and security passes.
• Walk through with your agent or landlord if required.

After you’ve moved

Once the boxes are in, it’s time to settle in.

• Unpack essentials first. Bedrooms and kitchen usually take priority.
• Check your utilities. Make sure electricity, hot water and internet are up and running.
• Book professional help. Whether it’s house cleaning to freshen things up, or wills and estate planning to secure your family’s future, Bark can connect you with trusted experts.
• Update your driver’s licence. Most states require you to update your address within 14 days.

Check out our guide on how to make a house a home.

So putting it all together, here’s what you should do in order… Your moving home checklist

1. Planning & preparation

• Set the Date: Confirm your moving date and create a dedicated 'Moving Folder' (digital or physical) for quotes, receipts, and contracts.
• Budgeting: Estimate costs for removalists, cleaning, and new furniture.
• Book Removalists: Get at least 3 quotes. If DIY-ing, book the truck rental now.
• Declutter: Go room-by-room. Sell (Marketplace), Donate (Charity), or Bin (Skip hire) anything you don’t want to pay to move.
• Supplies: Start collecting boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and heavy-duty markers.
• Work/School: Request leave from work for moving day and notify schools/childcare of the relocation.

2. The admin & paperwork

• Notify your landlord or real estate agent and give the required notice.
• Confirm your bond return details or your property settlement date.
• Set up mail redirection with Australia Post.
• Update your address with your Bank and credit card providers.
• Update your address with MyGov (Medicare, ATO, Centrelink).
• Update your address with your Superannuation fund.
• Update your address with all Insurance companies (Car, Health, Home).
• Update your address for your Driver’s licence and vehicle registration.
• Update your address on the Electoral roll (AEC).
• Update your address with your Employer and payroll department.
• Update your address with Schools, universities, or childcare centers.
• Update your address with your Vet, Doctor, and Dentist.

3. Utilities & services

• Notify current utility providers of your move-out date.
• Schedule connections for Electricity, Gas, Water, and NBN at the new home.
• Arrange final meter readings for both properties for your moving day.
• Cancel or transfer Pay TV services like Foxtel.
• Update your Home and Contents insurance to cover the new property.
• Check the rubbish and recycling collection days for your new address.

4. Packing

• Pack non-essential items first like books, décor, and seasonal clothes.
• Label every box clearly with the destination room and contents.
• Wrap fragile items securely and mark those boxes clearly as 'FRAGILE'.
• Pack an 'Essentials Box' with toiletries, towels, and toilet paper.
• Include a kettle, tea/coffee, snacks, and bedding in your 'Essentials Box'.
• Include phone chargers and basic tools (screwdrivers) in your 'Essentials Box'.
• Defrost and clean the fridge and freezer 24 hours before the move.
• Dismantle large furniture and keep screws in labeled bags taped to the item.

5. Before leaving your old home

• Clean all rooms thoroughly or hire a professional bond cleaner.
• Patch small holes, replace dead light bulbs, and fix minor issues.
• Empty and clean out the cupboards, garden shed, and garage.
• Take timestamped photos of every room for your records.
• Remove all remaining rubbish and recycling from the property.
• Collect all house keys and remotes for the final handover.

6. Moving day

• Confirm the arrival time with your removalists or helpers.
• Keep valuables, jewelry, and important documents with you personally.
• Take final meter readings and photos of the meters before you leave.
• Do one last walkthrough of every room, cupboard, and outdoor area.
• Lock all doors and windows and hand over keys to the agent or owner.
• Direct the movers on where to place specific boxes at the new house.

7. Settle into your new home

• Check that the electricity, gas, water, and internet are working.
• Take initial meter readings for the new property immediately.
• Unpack the bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom essentials first.
• Recycle or give away your empty boxes and packing materials.
• Update your home insurance start date and specific property details.
• Register your pets with the new local council and update microchips.
• Explore the neighborhood to find local shops, parks, and a GP.
• Introduce yourself to your new neighbors.
• Relax and enjoy your new home!

Download our pdf checklist here to print it off and make sure everything's done!

Final word

Moving house doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right moving home checklist, you can take it step by step and feel in control throughout the process.

And remember - whether you need house cleaning, end of tenancy cleaning, lawyers and solicitors, or wills and estate planning, Bark helps you hire the right professional, every time.