There’s a lot to anticipate and prepare for when you’re planning for a move. And with so much to do, it’s very likely you’ll forget a few things… So to get you ready as best we can, we’ve made you a moving checklist split into two parts.
Part 1 is a checklist focused on preparing for move-out day. Part 2 (coming soon) is a checklist helping you get ready to move into your new place to make it as stress free as possible.
Multiple studies over the years have suggested that moving can be the most stressful life event, even worse than going through a breakup, a divorce, organising a wedding, or having a newborn (who are these super chilled new parents?). The stress of moving comes from the massive to-do list associated with sorting through your things, packing, changing your address for all your bills and subscriptions, and then trying to fill up a moving truck like a tetris in just a few hours. So to keep the stress and the last-minute improvisations to a minimum, check out our relocation checklist below. Ready, pack, move!
Move-out checklist
A month to two months before the move:
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Get boxes, packaging tapes, bubble wrap, bin bags, markers
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Arrange a collection or a slot at a recycling site
Dispose of your old electronic appliances or big items you don’t want anymore ahead of the move. Hire a Tasker to do your rubbish removal for you.
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Go through your closets and chests of drawers
Look for anything you haven’t used or worn in a while and start donating, recycling or throwing away. You’ll quickly realise you don’t need these books you’ve already read, this bright green sweater you only wore the day your aunt gifted it to you, or those old bank statements and birthday cards from 3 years ago.
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Get the dimensions of your new place
Because why would you move that couch down the stairs if it doesn’t even fit in your new living room or through the entry door…
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Remove anything stuck or nailed to the wall (photos, art, TV, shelves)
That way, you can know if there’s any damage once removed and see if you need to patch some holes or repaint before you leave. If you do need a bit of help fixing up your place, get an experienced Tasker to help you.
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Get someone to look after your young kids and/or pets for the moving day
This will be one less thing to worry about on the day of.
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Find the right mover
Instead of guilt-tripping your friend to carry boxes at 8 am on a rainy Saturday, find reliable local movers near you.
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Two weeks before the move:
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Start packing anything that you won’t need for another 3 weeks
That means art, books, a lot of your clothes, and some of your kitchen utensils and appliances. And don’t forget to label!
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Hire a professional cleaner to do end of tenancy cleaning
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Arrange to dispose of the keys
Check with your landlord or real estate agent where once you’re out of the house.
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Plan to return your modem and cables
Even if you’re not changing your provider, you usually have to set up a time to drop off your old equipment.
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The week of the move:
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Pack a bit every night
And pack the essentials only on the last night.
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Defrost your freezer
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Disassemble any big items
Some might not fit through your door and some might just be easier to carry disassembled. Need help dismantling and packing up your furniture without breaking it? Find a local Tasker to do it in no time.
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Empty your fridge
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The day of the move:
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Keep bin bags out
Chances are you’ll need it for all the things you’re going to find behind your couch and under your bed.
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Do a final sweep of the house
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Hand over the keys
