Planning your move

• Make sure you plan as far ahead as possible.

• Remember that the removalists will be handling your valued and often irreplaceable possessions, so it is important to use a reputable firm.

• Consider insurance to cover your contents while they are being moved. Discuss this with the removal company.

• Obtain a quote for moving and ask for a flat rate rather than an hourly rate. If there are any delays and you have an hourly rate it can become more expensive than you anticipated.

Packing and Removal

• If you are packing yourself, start well in advance of the moving day and avoid the last minute panic.

• Defrost your fridge the day before moving.

• Go through the house with the removalists when they arrive, giving any special instructions you may have. Do the same when you arrive at your new place.

• When packing cartons, it is a good idea to mark the contents on the top and on the side for easy identification.

• It is not necessary to empty dresser drawers, but remove all fragile and heavy items and all liquids. Do not overload the drawers.

• You can use clean tea towels or tissue to pack breakable objects.

• Carry money, jewellery and valuable papers with you. Removalists will not accept responsibility for articles of extraordinary value.

Change of Address

• Notify utility companies (gas, electricity, water and telephone) when to discontinue services.

• Make arrangements in advance for all services to be connected at your new home.

• Notify people of your change of address, including bank, motor vehicle registration, post office and organisations of which you are a member.