Moving house causes a lot of stress. There are many things to deal with before, during, and after removal. But whether you are relocating interstate or internationally, proper timing and planning are the keys to a successful house relocation.
The best time to move house in Australia is during summer, especially if you have kids. This is because of the better weather and the break in the academic years.
But if you are moving alone or with your partner, it is best to move during the off-peak season (winter or fall). Aside from getting a better deal from a removal company, like Halton removals, you can make your interstate move less stressful, faster and safer. Either way, prepare in advance to guarantee an organised and smooth relocation.
To help you out, especially if you are moving house for the first time, here are the five most crucial steps to efficiently manage your move.
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Step 1: Evaluate your financial health
Your finances will have a significant impact on the removal process. Despite having a job waiting for you in your new place, you still have to make sure you have enough money for the move and unforeseen circumstances.
Consider developing a financial plan to know how much you can afford and develop ways to increase your available cash and reduce potential expenses. This way, you won’t run out of cash during the process.
Step 2: Find a new house and sell your current house
Lucky for you if your company or someone you trust has already secured a place where you can live. Otherwise, you must perform your home search.
When finding your new home, consider everything that makes up the property you are considering and the community you will be moving into. And this means going beyond the features and amenities of the property. Factors to consider must include:
- Neighbourhood
- Proximity to important establishments like a school, hospital, and supermarket
- Crime rate
- Transportation
- Noise and traffic
- Security
- Public amenities
Is the house you’re looking to buy located in a safe area? Is it equipped with modern security systems such as smart doors, alarm systems, modern valve cabinets, etc? As for selling your current home, you can get help from estate agents to make this process easier and faster. This may entail an added expense, but doing things professionally will ensure your property is exposed to a wider market. But before selling it, make sure that it is presentable and clean. If possible, make some minor improvements to increase its value and appeal.
Step 3: Hire a removal company
Most people think that hiring a removal company should be done at a later time. But experts say otherwise. You must look for a removalist the moment you decide when and where to move so you will have several options.
This will also mean you will have enough time to research, get estimates, make comparisons, and even visit at least three of the best removalists in the area. Moreover, you can get better deals and huge discounts if you book a moving service early.
When it comes to hiring a removal company, here are some tips to consider:
- Check on their reputation and credibility.
- Ask for their licences and insurance to ensure that both are valid.
- Read reviews/feedback from their previous clients.
- Ask for references.
- Look into the services they offer, including cost and potential extra charges.
- Get a feel of how they communicate with you and address any of your concerns.
Step 4: Declutter
You have to get rid of everything that has no use or value to you anymore. You can throw, donate or sell these items as you wish.
However, don’t be tempted to sell most of your items, thinking you can just buy new ones when you get to your new home. This is not a practical course of action for several reasons.
For instance, the cost of buying brand new items is often more expensive than the cost of moving your furniture and appliances. Also, you are unsure about the new products’ quality and if you can immediately make a purchase. Ultimately, you can live in a house without furnishings that can make your life easier and better.
Once you have decided which items to keep and let go of, create an inventory and sort everything out properly.
Step 5: Pack smartly
Packing is one of the more tedious tasks associated with moving. When done correctly, your items will arrive at your new home safe and damage-free. If not, your prized possessions can get damaged or lost during the process.
Therefore, ensure that you pack everything with care and attention to detail, especially the breakables and fragile items. This means using high-quality packing supplies and applying the correct packing strategies.
Ideally, you should pack your things as early as you can. Start with the least used or off-season items, and gradually move towards your other items. The trick here is to make your boxes as room-specific as possible and label each one properly. Staying organised as you pack will save you time and effort when it is time to unpack.
If you will be keeping some of your items in storage units, pack them in a way that they will remain intact while in storage. Use the proper packing supplies and tips to keep pests, dust, debris, mould, and mildew at bay.
Important Note: If you are hesitant about packing your items because of a lack of knowledge and expertise, investing in professional packing services is smart. Experienced removalists do more than just the heavy lifting – they are also experts in packing different items.
Moving to a new home is a stressful and time-consuming endeavour. But if you plan and know exactly what to do, the possibilities for things going wrong will be reduced if not eliminated.
AUTHOR BIO
Robert Wise, Sales Administration Manager at Nuss Removals, has been a respected figure in the removals industry for over 20 years. His attention to detail and the ability to truly understand the customer’s needs have ensured the successful relocation of thousands of satisfied individuals and families. For moving and storage across Australia and worldwide, Robert’s wealth of experience ensures his customers are in safe hands.
