By Ross McGravie
Moving house is often viewed as stressful, but thorough planning and a positive attitude can turn it into an exciting journey.
On average, people move house every seven years, so having the right mindset is a good first step.
Bearing this in mind, work out what you want to keep, where it should fit in the new property’s floor plan and what to do with the unwanted stock.
Listing those items on Gumtree, in a newspaper ad or holding a garage sale before the move can reduce the expense of moving and help you avoid making the major mistake of overloading. Otherwise, you may pay for items you throw out later.
Accounting for the cost of a removalist is perhaps the most crucial step, but be wary: cheapest isn’t always the best option.
Obtain three quotes in writing from reputable firms (preferably members of the Australian Furniture Removers Association) and have company representatives visit your home to survey all the goods to be transported.
If there are substantial price differences, ask why, and determine whether your goods are covered for damage or loss during packing, transit and delivery.
Ensure you are familiar with variables such as insurance (replacement insurance replaces goods regardless of their age; indemnity insurance covers goods at their market value), mileage, hourly or job rate, and always ask for the AFRA Removals Contract.
Because it is a legally enforceable document, agreement can be reached between the
two parties as to the time of arrival, penalty clauses and any other special arrangements you wish to be specified. If packing items yourself, label each box with its destination (i.e. kitchen, bedroom 2) to make unpacking much easier.
As a general rule, pack lighter items in large boxes and heavier ones in small boxes to limit breakages and make them easier to lift. Being “ready to go” may sound simple, but people are caught out not having dismantled beds or forgetting to defrost the fridge.
Perhaps the most forgotten aspect is that access at both ends will be crucial on moving day, so resolve any potential issues with the removalist and neighbours well before the truck arrives.
