- Start planning weeks ahead with a written timeline that covers packing, movers, utility connections, and address updates.
- Declutter ruthlessly before packing, since selling or donating unused items reduces both moving costs and unpacking time.
- Get quotes from at least three reputable moving companies and check reviews before choosing one.
- Label boxes by room and contents, and pack a separate ""first night"" box with essentials for the first day at the new place.
- Notify utilities, banks, insurance, and government agencies of your address change well before the move.
Western Australia's mining boom is a result of a combination of factors, including its resource wealth, global demand for commodities, technological advancements, infrastructure development, supportive government policies, and the resulting job creation and economic growth.
You can minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition to your new home in Western Australia with these top 10 tips.
Plan Ahead
Start planning your move well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
Create a timeline outlining important tasks such as packing, hiring movers, and notifying utilities.
Declutter Before Packing
Take the opportunity to declutter your belongings before packing.
Donate or sell items you no longer need or use. This will streamline your move and reduce clutter in your new home.
Research Moving Companies
If you're hiring movers, research reputable moving companies in your area.
Get quotes from multiple companies and read reviews to ensure you choose a reliable and trustworthy option.
Pack Strategically
Pack strategically to make unpacking easier.
Label boxes clearly with their contents and the room they belong to.
Pack essential items separately for easy access upon arrival at your new home.
Notify Utilities and Services
Don't forget to notify utilities and services of your upcoming move.
Arrange to have utilities disconnected at your old home and connected at your new home to ensure a smooth transition.
Update Your Address
Update your address with important contacts such as banks, insurance providers, and government agencies.
Forward your mail to your new address to avoid missing important correspondence.
Take Inventory
Create an inventory of your belongings before the move.
This will help you keep track of your items and ensure everything arrives safely at your new home.
Consider Storage Solutions
If you're downsizing or need temporary storage during your move, consider renting a storage unit.
This can provide a convenient solution for storing belongings that won't fit in your new home.
Explore Interest-Free Instalment Plans
Look into interest-free instalment plans for expenses related to your move, such as hiring movers or purchasing new furniture.
Many companies offer these plans, allowing you to spread out payments over time without accruing interest.
Prepare for Pet and Childcare
If you have pets or young children, plan for their care during the moving process.
Arrange for pet sitters or childcare on moving day to keep them safe and comfortable.
Moving can be physically and emotionally exhausting, so remember to take care of yourself throughout the process.
Stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, and don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it. Happy Moving!
How much should I budget for a Perth interstate move?
Budget moves run $2000 to $4000 for a small unit; $5000 to $10000 for a 3-bedroom house. DIY truck rental costs $1000 to $2500 plus fuel. Get 3 quotes to compare. Add 10 percent contingency for unexpected costs.
What's the cheapest way to move within Perth itself?
Renting a 6-tonne truck from Budget or Avis ($150 to $300 per day) and recruiting friends (with a thank-you pizza and beer) is the cheapest. Professional removalists charge $80 to $150 per hour for local moves.
Should I declutter before getting moving quotes?
Yes. Movers price by volume and weight. Decluttering can reduce the move size by 20 to 30 percent and save hundreds. Sell or donate what you can; trash the rest. The post-decluttering quote is much more accurate.
Are storage units a budget-friendly option for transitional moves?
Storage units run $150 to $400 per month for a small space in Perth. Useful for short-term transitions but adds up if used long-term. Many people end up storing items for years when they should have decluttered.
How do I move a mattress without paying for movers?
Wrap in plastic for protection, use a roof rack or trailer, secure tightly with straps. Mattress-in-a-box is much easier; the compressed box fits in any car. For one-time moves of standard mattresses, professional handling is usually worth the cost.
Can I save money by moving on weekdays?
Yes. Weekday moves are typically 15 to 25 percent cheaper than weekends due to lower demand. Take a vacation day if possible. Mid-month moves are even cheaper since most people move at month-end.
Are moving boxes really worth buying or should I scrounge them?
Free boxes from supermarkets, libraries, and bottle shops save $100 to $200. They're typically smaller and weaker than purpose-made moving boxes, so you'll need more. For valuable items, buy proper boxes; for sturdy items, free boxes work.
Should I tip movers in Australia?
Tipping isn't standard for moving in Australia, but cold drinks, snacks, and a small cash thank-you ($20 to $50 per mover for excellent service) are appreciated. Don't feel obligated for a basic move.
Can I claim moving expenses on my Australian tax return?
Generally only if the move is work-related and your employer requires it. Personal moves aren't deductible. If your employer is paying for or contributing to the move, the rules differ; consult a tax professional.
What's the worst time of year to move in Perth?
January and February (peak summer heat plus high demand) are the worst. End-of-financial-year (June) is busy with end-of-month and school holiday moves. Best times are mid-week, mid-month, in autumn or winter.
