When it comes to moving house, there’s no shortage of advice out there—but not all of it comes from people who actually move homes every day. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of tried-and-true tips straight from those on the front lines of the moving industry. Whether you’re relocating across town or just around the corner, these insights from Moving Mates Newcastle can help ensure your move is as smooth, safe, and stress-free as possible.
With years of experience helping families and businesses transition to new spaces, Joao Damiani, senior operations lead at Moving Mates, offers this reminder:
“The biggest difference between a stressful move and a successful one is usually just good planning. Most issues aren’t unpredictable—they’re preventable.”
So, let’s dive into the expert tips that make all the difference on moving day.
1. Start Planning Early
The earlier you start organising your move, the more options you’ll have—especially when it comes to booking your preferred moving date. Leaving things to the last minute often leads to higher costs and rushed decisions.
Expert Tip:
Create a shifting timeline 4–6 weeks ahead of your pass. It should include:
- Booking your removalists
- Notifying utilities and service providers
- Decluttering
- Packing milestones by room
2. Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is the perfect opportunity to lighten your load. There’s no point spending time and money transporting items you no longer use or need.
Expert Tip:
Damiani suggests,
“If it hasn’t been used in over a year, consider whether it really needs to come with you. Less stuff method a faster, inexpensive, and less overwhelming flow.”
Donate, sell, or recycle some thing that not serves you. It’ll save you packing time and help your new home feel more spacious from day one.
3. Use Quality Packing Materials
It’s tempting to use any old box lying around, but fragile or mismatched boxes can collapse or tear during transport. The right materials go a long way in protecting your belongings.
Expert Tip:
- Use double-walled boxes for heavier items.
- Don’t overload boxes—keep them under 20kg where possible.
- Invest in packing paper, bubble wrap, & packing tape.
- Label each box with its room and contents for smoother unloading.
4. Pack an Essentials Box
You’ll thank yourself for having your everyday necessities in one easily accessible spot. An essentials box should include things like:
- Toiletries
- A change of clothes
- Phone chargers
- Snacks
- Medication
- Important documents
Expert Tip:
Pack your essentials box last and load it into the vehicle last—so it comes out first.
5. Book Reputable Removalists Early
Professional removalists can make the process infinitely easier, but the best ones book up quickly—especially during peak times like school holidays or the end of the month.
Expert Tip:
Book your movers at least 3–4 weeks in advance to lock in your ideal date and time. Be upfront about:
- Access issues (e.g., stairs, lifts)
- Heavy or delicate items (like pianos or artwork)
- Any time restrictions at your property
6. Label and Colour-Code Your Boxes
It might seem like a small step, but well-labeled boxes dramatically improve moving day flow and unpacking efficiency.
Expert Tip:
Use colour-coded labels or stickers for each room in the house. This helps your removalists know exactly where each box goes—and keeps you from having to open five different boxes just to find your kettle.
7. Prepare Your Home for Moving Day
A well-prepared home can shave hours off the move. This includes:
- Clearing driveways and walkways
- Disassembling furniture in advance
- Reserving elevators (if needed)
- Ensuring pets are secured & out of the way
Expert Tip:
“A lot of delays happen because something simple wasn’t ready—like beds not being dismantled, or a pathway being blocked,” says Damiani. “Having your home move-ready keeps things running smoothly.”
8. Protect Your Valuables and Documents
Important items like passports, birth certificates, and valuable jewellery should be kept separate from your general household goods.
Expert Tip:
Carry essential documents and valuables yourself on moving day. Use a small lockable box or folder that stays with you during the move.
9. Take Photos Before Disconnecting Electronics
Cables can become a confusing mess if you don’t take a moment to document where everything goes. A quick photo can save hours of frustration later.
Expert Tip:
Take clear photos of:
- TV and entertainment setups
- Computer wiring
- Home network setups
- Appliances that require special installation
10. Do a Final Walkthrough
Before you lock up your old home for the last time, do one final walk-through to make sure nothing is left behind. Check:
- Inside cupboards and drawers
- Behind doors and under beds
- Sheds, garages, and outdoor areas
Expert Tip:
Also make sure to:
- Turn off all lights
- Take final meter readings
- Lock all doors and windows securely
Bonus Tip: Stay Flexible
Even the best-laid plans can run into delays or last-minute surprises—weather, traffic, or access issues can all throw a wrench in the schedule.
Expert Tip:
“The best advice I can give is to stay calm and flexible. Moves are stressful by nature, but when you’ve planned well, even the unexpected is manageable,” says Damiani.
Final Thoughts
Moving is a big task, but with the right preparation and expert advice, it doesn’t have to be a chaotic one. From choosing a trusted mover like Moving Mates Newcastle to packing strategically and staying organised, these tips can help you feel confident every step of the way.
Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. A few smart choices before moving day can prevent a dozen problems on the day itself.
As Joao Damiani puts it:
“A good move doesn’t happen by accident—it’s planned, prepared, and approached with a bit of patience.”
