Top 5 things everyone forgets on moving day

From the small but significant tasks to ensuring your new home is internet-ready, here are the top five things to remember.

1. Updating your address

One of the most overlooked tasks is updating your address across all your government records, personal accounts and subscriptions.

It’s not just about redirecting your mail; it’s about ensuring you don’t miss out on important communications and bills.

So, be sure to:

• Notify your bank, ensuring all sensitive financial information comes to the right place
• Update your correspondence with government bodies, including your local council and the electoral commission
• Tell your insurance providers as well as your Superannuation account provider; and
• Be sure other key contacts know, such as your employer, your child’s school or daycare, and the like

By handling these updates ahead of time, you can avoid missed payments and service interruptions.

2. Setting up your nbn connection

Speaking of service interruptions, nothing is more frustrating than arriving at your new place and realising you’re disconnected from the digital world.

For a smooth internet transition, there’s a few things you don’t want to overlook.

Before moving day, be sure to have already checked nbn availability at your new place and arranged to be connected via your chosen provider.

nbn Co’s General Manager Residential Products, Courtney McMahon, says you should also check the nbn equipment has been left in your new home by previous residents if your new home has previously had an nbn connection.

“If the nbn connection box isn’t there, please let your provider know and they’ll get one to you as soon as possible,” Courtney says.

“Similarly, if you have an nbn connection at your current home, be sure to leave the nbn connection box behind so the new occupants can connect easily as well.”

“The nbn equipment is registered to the specific address and won’t work at your new home,” she adds.

However, if you’ve accidentally taken the nbn connection box with you, nbn will gladly receive it back – Australia Post can provide you with a label online and you can return it to nbn at no cost.

“This will help us keep other customers connected and also save valuable equipment, that can’t be used for any other reason, from going into landfill,” Courtney says.

3. Check other utility connections

It’s easy to forget about the essential utilities when you’re caught up in packing and organising.

However, having no electricity, gas, or water on a moving day can turn your excitement into stress very quickly.

It’s best to have your electricity and gas connected a few days prior to your move, to allow for some buffer.

Prior to moving day, double-check that everything is working before you start filling up your new home with your furniture.

Ensure that the water bill has been transferred to your name from the day you move in, so you don’t get overcharged.

Be sure to also check that your new property has bins ready to go. If not, contact your local council to arrange for some to be delivered.

4. Have an essentials box

Amidst the sea of boxes, the last thing you want is to be unable to find your toothbrush or a change of clothes.

Have a box or a bag that’s kept separately from everything else that contains some basic things you’ll need on the first day.

These include some basic toiletries, medications and a change of clothing for each family member.

Important documents can easily get misplaced, so carry with you any passports, financial documents and other critical paperwork.

You should also have some basic kitchen supplies that can easily be accessed. A few plates, cups, utensils, a kettle and some snacks will go a long way.

And most importantly, always have your phone chargers within reach.

5. Tick off the logistics

It’s worth anticipating all the moving day related logistics in advance, to ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

If you live in an area that requires parking permits for moving trucks, for example, make sure to arrange these ahead of time.

If you’re moving into an apartment, make sure the building manager is aware, so you can reserve the elevator for your moving day.

If you have children or pets, consider arranging for someone to look after them so you can focus on the move without worrying about their safety and comfort.

And finally, leave a box of cleaning supplies in your old place to do a quick tidy up after all the furniture is out.

Presented by nbn and available on Realstate.com.au