Moving Checklist: Home Setup in 30 Days

Moving into a new home can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into daily tasks makes it manageable. Here’s how to settle in within 30 days:

1. Essentials First (Week 1): Set up utilities (electricity, water, internet), create a sleeping area, and unpack your essentials like toiletries, bedding, and basic kitchen items.

2. Main Spaces (Week 2): Focus on arranging furniture in key areas like the living room and bedroom. Ensure appliances are in place and functional.

3. Finishing Touches (Weeks 3–4): Add personal touches like décor, organise storage, and set up outdoor areas. Address maintenance tasks like pest control or painting before unpacking fully.

Pro Tip: Use services like Movinghub, Australia Post's mail redirection and notify banks, insurance providers, and government agencies of your address change.

Planning Before Moving Day

Getting organised before the big move can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. Here's how to make sure everything goes smoothly.

Confirm Moving Details and Book Services

Double-check all the moving details with your removalist at least 48 hours before the big day. This includes confirming the date, time, pickup and delivery addresses, and reviewing the bill of lading ^[2][3][4].

Ask if your removalist provides transit insurance - it’s a smart way to protect your belongings during the move ^[1][3].

Make sure there’s clear access and parking at both locations. This might mean coordinating with building managers or even the local council. Having floor plans and parking instructions ready for the removalist supervisor can make the day run much more smoothly.

If you have specific needs, like handling fragile items or antiques, let the movers know in advance. And if you’ve hired professional packers, walk them through which items need extra care. Sorting out payment details ahead of time can also help you avoid any last-minute hiccups.

Set Up Your Packing System

Good packing starts with good materials. Invest in sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and strong tape to keep your items safe ^[5].

Label each box clearly with its room and contents, and consider creating a toolkit with essential disassembly tools. Taking photos of complex setups, like furniture or electronics, can make reassembly much easier. For added organisation, colour-code boxes by room with markers or stickers. This can help movers place boxes in the right spots and make unpacking less overwhelming.

Book Pre-Move Services

Booking pre-move services can save you from headaches later. For instance, professional pest control is a must. Termites affect 1 in 3 Australian homes and can cause extensive damage ^[6][11]. New builds are particularly at risk because of land disturbances, while older homes may have pest issues from previous occupants ^[10]. Pest treatments usually take 30 minutes to 2 hours, but initial inspections can take up to 3 hours ^[7].

A deep clean is another essential step. Hiring a ‘Pre-Move Cleaning’ service ensures your new home is spotless from the start ^[8][9].

Take advantage of the empty space to handle maintenance tasks like painting, fixing squeaky doors, or replacing light fixtures. It’s much easier to do these jobs before the furniture arrives.

Connect Utilities and Change Your Address

Once your moving plans are confirmed, it’s time to make sure your new home is ready to go from day one — with all your utilities connected and your details updated.

Set Up Utilities and Services the Easy Way

Instead of calling multiple companies and juggling connection dates, let Movinghub take care of it all in one place. Our free platform allows you to compare and connect your electricity, gas, broadband, water, and pay TV — so everything’s ready when you arrive.

Simply tell us your new address and moving date, and we’ll handle the rest. Whether you need a same-day electricity connection, a technician for gas setup, or an internet plan that suits your area, Movinghub makes it simple, fast, and stress-free.

Plus, we’ll notify your chosen providers and help ensure your address details are updated with essential services, saving you hours of phone calls and paperwork.

Change Your Address and Redirect Mail

Australia Post offers a mail redirection service that you can set up online or at your local post office. Be sure to check the fees and available redirection periods before proceeding.

Update your address with the following:

• Banks and financial institutions: This includes your bank, credit union, and any loan providers.

• Insurance companies: Home, contents, and car insurance providers need your updated details.

• Healthcare providers: Notify your GP, dentist, pharmacy, and private health insurer.

• Government agencies: Use myGov to update your details with the ATO, Centrelink, the Electoral Commission, and your local transport authority.

• Subscription services: Don’t forget streaming platforms, magazine subscriptions, loyalty programmes, and gym memberships.

Once these updates are squared away, you can move on to organising property access and waste arrangements.

Organise Waste Collection and Property Access

Reach out to your local council to learn about waste collection schedules, bin types, and sorting requirements. If bins aren’t provided automatically, request them, and ask about free hard waste collection services.

For a smooth move-in process, ensure removalists and technicians have clear access to the property during your first week. If you’re moving into an apartment or townhouse complex, coordinate with building management to book lifts, arrange loading dock access, and check if any moving fees or deposits are required.

Make sure to organise key collection ahead of time. This could involve contacting real estate agents, previous owners, or building managers. It’s also wise to have backup contacts just in case.

Lastly, check with your local council about permits or temporary parking arrangements for removalist trucks, especially if you’re moving into a busy urban area.

Unpack and Organise Your Main Living Areas

With utilities sorted and address changes underway, it's time to focus on turning your new house into a comfortable home. The trick is to unpack strategically, starting with the areas you'll rely on most during your first few days.

Start with Your Essentials

Begin by locating your essentials box - the one packed with items you'll need in the first 24–48 hours. If you didn’t pack one, prioritise gathering these must-haves from your other boxes.

First up, make your bed. Unpack your bedding - sheets, pillows, and duvet - so you’re ready for a good night’s rest. Keep a change of clothes, pyjamas, and your phone charger within easy reach.

Next, tackle the bathroom. Unpack toiletries like your toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and body wash. Ensure you have toilet paper, towels, and, if necessary, a shower curtain. It’s also a good idea to have some cleaning supplies handy.

In the kitchen, focus on the basics. Unpack a few plates, cups, utensils, and pots, along with essentials like a coffee maker or kettle. Stock up on non-perishable snacks and drinks, and keep a can opener and kitchen towels close by.

Keep important items like prescription medications, documents, keys, and your wallet with you. A flashlight can be a lifesaver in case of unexpected power issues. To avoid spills, store toiletries in plastic bags during the move.

If you find yourself missing any immediate necessities, Movinghub Shop offers a range of home essentials that can be delivered quickly to help you settle in.

Once your essentials are sorted, you can move on to arranging larger items.

Arrange Furniture and Appliances

Before placing furniture, measure your space to ensure everything fits properly without blocking doors or windows.

Start with major appliances. Position your refrigerator first, and if it was transported on its side, let it sit upright for at least two hours before plugging it in. Then, set up your stove and dishwasher according to your kitchen layout.

Next, focus on bedroom furniture. Assemble your bed frame if it was disassembled for the move, and position wardrobes and dressers to make the most of natural light and nearby power outlets.

In the living room, place your sofa and entertainment unit first, considering the best viewing angles for your TV and the natural flow of movement in the space. Position heavier items like bookcases and dining tables in their final spots to minimise lifting later.

With large items in place, you can start fine-tuning each room.

Final Touches for Bedrooms, Bathrooms, and Living Areas

After positioning the big pieces, refine each room to make it feel liveable and comfortable.

In bedrooms, assemble smaller furniture like bedside tables and dressing tables. Unpack your linens and organise your wardrobe so a few days’ worth of clothing is easily accessible. Add bedside lamps and an alarm clock for convenience.

For the bathroom, arrange toiletries neatly on shelves or in the medicine cabinet. Hang towels, put up a shower curtain or screen if needed, and add storage solutions to keep counters clutter-free.

Living spaces should feel inviting. Set up your entertainment system, arrange seating for easy conversation, and create a cosy nook with a few books or magazines.

Don’t forget outdoor spaces, whether it’s a balcony, patio, or garden. Arrange basic outdoor furniture like chairs and a table to create a usable area quickly. Movinghub Shop offers weather-resistant outdoor furniture options suited to Australian conditions, making it easy to set up an inviting space.

Finally, wrap up in the kitchen by organising frequently used appliances like the kettle, toaster, and microwave. Arrange pantry staples at eye level and keep essential cooking tools within easy reach in drawers.

Safety and Maintenance Tasks

Record Meter Readings

Once you've sorted out utilities and access, it’s time to protect your wallet by recording your utility meter readings.

On day one, snap a photo of each utility meter - electricity (usually found on an exterior wall or inside a meter box), gas (if applicable), and water (often near the street or front yard). These photos should clearly show the starting readings and serial numbers.

Store these images for your records and provide the readings to your utility providers when setting up accounts. Without this step, you risk billing errors, as providers may rely on estimated readings instead.

"Don't forget to take a photo of your electricity meter on moving day. This gives you a time-stamped record to prevent disputes over charges after you've left." - EcoFlow ^[12]

In one case, an AGL customer in November 2023 faced major billing issues due to estimated readings ^[13].

Even if you have a smart meter, double-check the initial reading. If future bills seem off or are marked as estimated, reach out to your provider to confirm the actual readings.

This simple task can save you a lot of hassle later, leaving you free to focus on making your new home your own.

Make Your House Feel Like Home

Meet Your Neighbours and Explore the Area

Getting to know your neighbours and exploring your surroundings can make settling in much easier. Start with a friendly introduction - knock on your neighbours' doors and say, "Hi, I'm your new neighbour." Australians appreciate a straightforward approach, and you might pick up useful tips about bin collection schedules, parking rules, or the best local services.

Take some time to walk around your neighbourhood. Find your nearest Woolworths or Coles, locate the local pharmacy, and check out nearby cafes where you might become a regular. Apps like Nextdoor or local Facebook groups can also keep you in the loop about community events, recommendations, and any local updates.

Don't forget to register with a local GP as soon as possible - many clinics have waiting lists, so it's best to get this sorted early. If you have kids, visit nearby schools or childcare centres to explore your options. Pet owners should look for the closest vet clinic and introduce their pets to the area with regular walks in local parks.

Once you've settled into the community, you can shift your attention to making your home more comfortable.

Plan Home Improvements

Tailoring your home to suit Australia's climate is a smart move. For summer, consider adding ceiling fans, setting up outdoor entertaining areas, or installing block-out curtains to keep things cool. When winter rolls around, draught stoppers, extra heating solutions, or cosy blankets can make all the difference.

If you're thinking bigger, start a wish list for projects like kitchen updates, bathroom renovations, or garden landscaping. Take your time - live in your home for a few months to understand how you use each space before committing to major changes. When you're ready, research local tradespeople and gather quotes, but avoid rushing into expensive upgrades right away.

Once the practical updates are sorted, you can focus on adding your personal flair.

Add Personal Style and Organisation

Personal touches can transform your house into a home. Rugs are a great way to warm up a space and define different areas - Movinghub Shop offers a range of options to suit every room and budget. Layer cushions, throws, and curtains to bring in texture and comfort.

Keep things organised while adding style. Decorative storage solutions can help maintain order while complementing your interior design. Movinghub Shop's storage range offers plenty of choices to suit different tastes and needs.

Instead of unpacking everything at once, take your time displaying decorative items. Rotate artwork, photos, and ornaments until you find the perfect arrangement. Adding plants is another easy way to brighten up your space. If you're new to greenery, start with low-maintenance options like snake plants or pothos.

Finally, set up designated spots for everyday essentials like keys, mail, and charging stations. These small organisational touches can make your daily routines smoother and help your home feel more settled.

Conclusion: Complete Your Move in 30 Days

This 30-day checklist is your guide to turning an empty house into a functional and organised home. Start by connecting utilities, unpacking essential items, and setting up the main living areas. Once the basics are in place, you can gradually add personal touches and decorations, ensuring steady progress without feeling overwhelmed.

As you check off tasks, remember that settling in takes time. Focus on achieving functionality within the first 30 days, but leave room for personalisation as you grow into your space. Spend time living in each area before committing to major changes or costly renovations - this helps you understand how the space works best for you.

To make the process smoother, the Movinghub Shop provides a range of storage solutions and décor items, all backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. These tools can help you personalise your home with ease and confidence.

With thoughtful planning, the right tools, and a bit of patience, you'll create the functional and organised home you've envisioned - all within just 30 days. Your new space is ready to become your sanctuary.

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