moving-house-checklist-7-easy-tips

Whether you've rented a new property, bought your first home or you're moving interstate, moving day can start to feel overwhelming. Here are some quick and easy ways to help take the headache out of relocating.

1. Get connected

With so much to think about and so little time, it's easy to leave switching your utilities to the last minute. Make sure you give your supplier/s (electricity, gas, water and/or internet) at least a few days notice to switch on your new connections and disconnect everything at your old property. Inform them of your move as early as possible to avoid delays. You don't want to end up spending the first few nights at your new home without electricity, gas or water. If you're relocating over a weekend, remember to get your utilities connected during the week prior. While you're at it, get some of your other admin out of the way by updating your address on your credit cards, insurance policies, driver's license and so on. You may want to consider setting up a six-month redirection service at the post office to catch any mail address to your former residence.

2. Pick up your keys, please

You might want to start bright and early on moving day, especially if you're moving on the weekend or if heavy traffic can be an issue in your area. But if you're planning to pick up the keys to your new place on the way, don't forget to check what time the real estate office opens. You don't want to waste time waiting for someone to get there when you're paying for the hire truck or removalists by the hour.

3. Consider the size

Size does matter. It's important to consider the size and number of the items you'll be moving. Not only will this help make sure you've collected enough boxes for the move, it also means you'll be able to organise a truck big enough to fit everything in one go. It could end up costing you a pretty penny if you or the removalists need to make multiple trips - not to mention the extra time and hassle. On the other hand, if you don't want to pay for a truck, hiring a trailer or van could help you get the job done and keep costs down. If you do end up running over time, or it turns out you need a bigger truck, a low rate credit card can help keep unexpected costs from blowing out further by reducing the interest charged on remaining balances.

4. Start packing; the sooner the better

In the week before you move, start dismantling any furniture you don't use regularly and pack up non-essentials, such as:

· Kitchen utensils you don't use every day · Toys · Office items · Books · Extra towels and bed linen Consider packing screws and cords, remote controls, keys, bed legs and other small but important items together, so you know exactly where to find them when setting things up at your new place. Don't forget to wrap up your valuables to minise the risk of accidental damage. It's a good idea to insure for the move, and to check what's covered by the removallist company if you're using one. And don't forget to label everything so when it's time to unpack you know what's what.

5. Empty the fridge and freezer

As you get closer to moving day, try to finish up any leftovers in the fridge or food in the freezer, as perishables, liquids and other food items can be messy and difficult to transport. On the day, pack remaining perishables into an Esky, but don't forget to set aside the ice blocks to keep the Esky cool throughout the move.

6. Make a survival kit

It's no fun rummaging through endless boxes when you're tired and dirty looking for the kettle, towels or other essentials. So, pack yourself a box of things you know you'll want or need the night and morning after you move in.

Consider including:

· Tea · Coffee · A clean set of clothes · Pyjamas · Toiletries · Favourite toys for the kids · Chargers and cables · Medicines or prescriptions · Plates, bowls, mugs and cutlery · Pet food and other key items Having these on hand will make settling into your new home a little less stressful.

7. Put on the finishing touches

If you're moving out of a rental, always allow a few extra days after the move for cleaning, final inspections and last-minute spruce ups. These things can take a lot longer than you expect, and you don't want to cut corners when your bond is at stake. When renting, you'll usually need to cover the bond and first month's rent up-front, which can leave you a little strapped for cash while you wait to get your previous bond back. A balance transfer credit card can help take some of the pressure off by letting you transfer your exisiting credit card balance to a new credit card that offers a low or even no interest rate for a fixed term. There's no denying that moving can be stressful, but a little organisation ahead of time can help you keep things under control. Use this checklist to make settling into your new space that much sweeter. Search and compare low interest credit cards or balance transfer cards now.