Moving goes smoothly when you start early and break it into small jobs. This checklist takes you from 8 weeks out to the day after the move — with Darwin-specific steps for renters, the wet season and interstate arrivals.
Tip: Copy this list into your phone's notes app and tick things off as you go.
8 weeks before
- Set your moving date (aim for mid-week, mid-month if you can)
- Give notice to your landlord, as your lease requires
- Start decluttering room by room — sell, donate or dump
- Get two or three removalist quotes (how to choose a removalist)
- Moving interstate? Compare backload, container and dedicated options (What Is Backloading?)
- Find your ingoing condition report if you're renting
6 weeks before
- Book your removalist (when to book)
- Book your bond clean, timed straight after the move (Move + Bond Clean)
- Order boxes, tape and markers, or ask about a packing service
- Book lifts and loading docks for apartments (high-rise moving guide)
- Arrange storage if there's a gap between homes
- Book time off work for moving day
4 weeks before
- Start packing rooms you don't use every day
- Label every box with the room and contents
- Arrange utility disconnection and connection — electricity, water, internet
- Set up mail redirection with Australia Post
- Update your address with your bank, employer, insurers, Medicare, the ATO and the electoral roll
- Arrange school or childcare transfers if needed
- Moving November–April? Read the cyclone season checklist
2 weeks before
- Keep packing — aim to be 70% done
- Use up food in the freezer and pantry
- Return borrowed items and collect anything you've lent
- Book a carpet clean if your lease requires it
- Fix small damage at your rental (picture hooks, scuffs)
- Measure big furniture against doors and lifts at the new place
Moving week
- Confirm times with your removalist and cleaners
- Dismantle beds and tables the night before (tape screws to each piece)
- Defrost the fridge and freezer at least 24 hours before
- Pack an essentials bag (see below)
- Check the weather forecast — in the wet, plan a morning start (wet season tips)
- Charge your phone and keep cash for incidentals
- Reserve parking for the truck
Your essentials bag
Keep this with you, not on the truck: - ID, keys, documents and contracts - Medication and first aid - Phone and laptop chargers - Change of clothes, toiletries and towels - Bedding for the first night - Snacks, water, kettle and mugs - Toilet paper, cleaning wipes and bin bags - Basic tools, scissors and a torch
Moving day
- Be ready when the crew arrives — the clock usually starts then
- Do a walk-through with the crew leader
- Point out fragile and don't-move items
- Check every cupboard, the shed and under the house before the truck leaves
- Read the meters and take photos
- At the new home, direct each box to the right room
After the move
- Unpack soft items first and run the air-con — Darwin humidity can cause mould (humidity packing tips)
- Check for damage and report it to your removalist promptly
- Attend the outgoing inspection and return all keys
- Moved from interstate? Transfer your rego within 28 days and licence within 3 months (Moving to Darwin guide)
- Recycle boxes or pass them on
Make the big jobs easy
We can handle the move, the packing and the bond clean — you just tick the boxes.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start planning a move?
Ideally 8 weeks before. That gives you time to declutter, get quotes, book a removalist and cleaner, and sort out utilities without rushing.
What should I pack first when moving?
Start with things you rarely use: spare linen, books, seasonal items, decorations and storage areas like the garage or shed. Pack everyday items last.
What should I keep with me on moving day?
An essentials bag with documents, medication, chargers, keys, a change of clothes, toiletries, snacks, water, basic tools and bedding for the first night.
Who do I need to notify when I move?
Your bank, employer, insurers, electoral roll, Medicare, the ATO, utilities, subscriptions, your doctor and dentist, schools, and Australia Post if you want mail redirected.