Moving and Storage Industry: Downloadable Checklist Guide

11 June 2024

Moving can be one of life's most stressful events, but with the right preparation and supplies, it doesn't have to be. At Visy Boxes & More, we understand the unique challenges of the moving and storage industry and have prepared a handy checklist.

 

Moving can be one of life's most stressful events, but with the right preparation and supplies, it doesn't have to be. At Visy Boxes & More, we understand the unique challenges of the moving and storage industry. That’s why we’ve positioned ourselves as a one-stop shop for all your packaging consumables and moving accessories. From sturdy cartons to bubble wrap, labels, tape, and beyond, we have everything you need to ensure your move is as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

To help you navigate the complexities of moving, we’ve also prepared a comprehensive Moving and Storage Checklist. This guide is designed to assist you before, during, and after your move, ensuring you don’t miss a step in the process.


Preparing to Pack

Essential Supplies:

Pro Tip: Use clean white butchers paper instead of newspaper to avoid soiling your items.

Steps:

  1. Labeling: Clearly mark each carton with its contents and destination room.
  2. Inventory List: Keep a detailed list of each box’s contents and note any fragile items or existing damage.
  3. Packing Strategy: Place heavier items in smaller cartons and lighter items in larger ones. Always put heavier items at the bottom.

4 to 6 Weeks Before Moving Day

Organizational Tasks:

  • Furniture Disassembly: Dismantle items and tape screws in a visible location.
  • Essentials Carton: Prepare a box with essential items like remotes, bed legs, keys, and instruction manuals.
  • Survival Kit: Pack a separate kit with immediate necessities like tea, coffee, toiletries, and children’s toys.

Personal Preparations:

  • Sentimental Items: Transport these personally to avoid loss or damage.
  • Moving Documents: Create a folder for all your important moving paperwork.
  • Insurance: Arrange content and household insurance for your new home.

Notifications:

  • Update your address with the Electoral Office, DMV, and other relevant authorities.
  • Notify utility companies and arrange for final readings and transfers.

2 to 3 Weeks Before Moving Day

Final Arrangements:

  • Child and Pet Care: Arrange for someone to look after them on moving day.
  • Bank Accounts and Utilities: Transfer accounts and set up connections at your new address.
  • Prescriptions: Ensure you have enough medication for the move and the following weeks.

1 Week Before Moving Day

Last-Minute Preparations:

  • Delivery Services: Cancel or redirect any regular deliveries.
  • Cleaning: Ensure both your old and new homes are thoroughly cleaned.
  • Outdoor Items: Disassemble and prepare for transport.

Moving Day

Key Actions:

  • Professional Packers: If using, leave out essential items for the evening and following day.
  • Meter Readings: Ensure final readings are done for gas, electricity, and water.
  • Loading Strategy: Load essential boxes last so they are the first off the truck.

Final Checks:

  • Security: Lock all doors and windows, turn off the hot water system, and inform neighbors if the house will be empty for a while.
  • Inspection: Check that nothing is left behind in cupboards, garages, or garden sheds.

Settling into Your New Home

Immediate Tasks:

  • Furniture Placement: Stand at the entry point to direct furniture placement according to your pre-planned layout.
  • Utility Check: Ensure all utilities are connected and functioning.
  • Pet Care: Help pets adjust by confining them to a single room initially with familiar items.

Security and Documentation:

  • Locks: Change locks if needed for security.
  • Inventory Check: If items came from storage or interstate, verify against your inventory list.

Tips for Moving with Pets

Cats:

  • Carrier Transport: Move cats in a carrier with familiar bedding.
  • Gradual Exploration: Let them explore one room at a time, gradually introducing them to the rest of the house.

Dogs:

  • Routine: Keep their routine as normal as possible.
  • Positive Reinforcement: Use treats and play to make them comfortable in their new environment.

Download Our Handy Guide

For your convenience, we’ve compiled all this information into a handy downloadable guide. This easy-to-follow checklist covers every aspect of your move, ensuring you don’t miss a step.

Moving & Storage Checklist Guide

By following our comprehensive Moving and Storage Checklist, you can ensure a smoother, more organised move. At Visy Boxes & More, we provide all the necessary packaging consumables to support this process. 

ABOUT US

Visy Boxes & More, part of the Visy family, are Australia and New Zealand's premier 'one stop shop' for your packaging supplies and consumables. We offer an extensive range of high quality, competitively priced packaging solutions.