Moving Day Checklist

Plan the move before moving day arrives.

Preparing for a move can feel overwhelming, but a clear timeline removes the guesswork. Use this Family Movers checklist to stay organized from 5 weeks out through your first day in the new home.

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Your moving timeline, broken into practical stages.

5 weeks before moving date

Lock in the big decisions

  • Book your professional move with Family Movers. Call us or message on WhatsApp to secure your date and get a formal quote.
  • Notify your landlord about your moving date.
  • If relocating to a new town, give notice to your employer, clubs, and schools.
  • Declutter unwanted items. Hold a garage sale, donate to charity, or recycle what you no longer need.

4 weeks before moving date

Start gathering supplies

  • Start collecting sturdy boxes, tape, and bubble wrap. Ask the Family Movers team about recommended packing supplies.
  • Book a storage facility if you need to store items between moves.
  • Notify your bank, insurance provider, and NZ Post of your change of address. Services like moovme.co.nz can help streamline this.
  • If moving long distance, ensure your personal vehicle is serviced for the trip.

Box Shop

Order your packing supplies while there is still time.

Starter packs work well if you want a faster recommendation. If you already know what you need, shop boxes, protection, or paper and tape directly.

View Starter PacksShop ProtectionShop Paper & Tape

3 weeks before moving date

Coordinate services and support

  • Check with your insurance provider to see if your belongings are covered during transit.
  • For long-distance relocations, book accommodation if the journey requires a stopover.
  • Arrange a babysitter or pet sitter for moving day to keep children and pets safe.
  • Start eating through pantry and freezer stock to reduce the amount of food you need to transport.
  • Coordinate electricity, gas, and internet providers for final readings and new house connections.
  • Book a professional cleaning company for your current home.

2 weeks before moving date

Confirm admin and packing

  • Organize mail redirection with NZ Post.
  • Transfer PO boxes or safety deposit boxes to a nearby branch.
  • Return library books and any borrowed items.
  • Book your final house inspection with your agent or landlord.
  • Cancel or transfer your gym membership.
  • Label every box with its contents and destination room, such as Kitchen - Utensils.

Packing Labels

Top up the materials that make unpacking easier.

If you are at the labelling stage, this is usually when customers realise they need more tape, paper, or extra boxes than expected.

Shop Paper & TapeShop Boxes

1 week before moving date

Prepare the home for handover

  • Defrost the freezer and finish frozen goods.
  • Confirm key pickup and alarm codes for the new property.
  • Start disassembling beds and large furniture items. If you have booked this service with Family Movers, we can handle it for you.
  • Disconnect the dishwasher and washing machine.
  • Set aside a high-priority box for essentials: chargers, passports, house keys, and medication.

On moving day

Keep the day controlled

  • Relax and let Family Movers handle the heavy lifting. Our team will load the truck efficiently and carefully.
  • Conduct a final walkthrough of the empty house to ensure nothing is left behind.
  • Take photos of your final meter readings for electricity and gas.
  • Ensure all windows and doors are locked and lights are switched off before you leave.
  • If moving long distance, take breaks and stay hydrated during your drive.

At your new place

Settle in with less friction

  • Inspect your new home before unloading begins and note any pre-existing damage to the landlord or agent.
  • Confirm that electricity, gas, and hot water are functioning.
  • Direct our team on where to place furniture and boxes to make unpacking easier.
  • Start unpacking with the kitchen and bedrooms.
  • Introduce yourself to your new neighbours and take a walk to explore your local area.

Need Assistance?

Want help planning or updating your booking?

Call, WhatsApp, or request a quote online. We can help confirm timing, packing support, furniture prep, and the right moving crew for the job.

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