The Ultimate Moving Day Checklist: What Most People Forget to Do

Moving day is one of those milestones that can feel both exciting and overwhelming. With boxes everywhere, timelines to follow, and physical exhaustion kicking in, it’s easy to become distracted by the chaos. Even with careful planning, many people find themselves scrambling at the last minute, realizing they’ve forgotten something important—sometimes only after they’ve locked the door behind them.

The truth is, no matter how organized you are, there are small but essential tasks that tend to slip through the cracks. From items you’ll need right away to things you didn’t think to check, the list of overlooked details can add stress to an already hectic day.

This guide is here to help. We’ve compiled a practical and realistic moving day checklist designed to catch the things most people forget—so your move can be smoother, safer, and a whole lot less stressful.

1. Essentials You’ll Need First

When everything you own is in boxes and your new place is still coming together, there are a few must-haves you’ll be grateful to have on hand. That’s where a “first-night” essentials box comes in—a small kit of daily necessities you keep with you (not in the moving truck) for immediate use.

What to pack in your essentials box:

• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer—your basic hygiene needs for the first night.
• Change of clothes: After a sweaty moving day, you’ll want clean clothes and pyjamas without digging through boxes.
• Chargers: Phone, laptop, and tablet chargers should be in easy reach to stay connected.
• Medication: Keep any prescriptions, over-the-counter meds, or first-aid items in this kit.
• Snacks & water: Bottled water, muesli bars, or pre-packed meals will keep your energy up when the kitchen’s not yet functional.

 Pro Tip: Use a brightly coloured container or label it “OPEN FIRST” so it doesn’t get mixed up with the rest of your belongings. Keep it with you or in your car—not in the removalist truck—so it’s accessible the moment you arrive.

2. Double-Check Utilities and Services

There’s nothing more frustrating than arriving at your new home only to find it’s dark, cold, or without water. In the chaos of moving day, it's surprisingly common for people to forget to confirm utility connections or properly shut things off at the old place.

Before you leave your old home:

• Take photos of the electricity, gas, and water meters as a final record of usage. These can be helpful in case of billing disputes with providers or landlords.

At your new home:

• Confirm that electricity, gas, and water are turned on. These should ideally be arranged at least 2–3 days before your move-in date.
• If you're moving on a weekend or public holiday, double-check availability in advance to avoid delays in connection.

Don’t forget the supporting services:

• Internet and Wi-Fi: Schedule a connection or transfer with your provider. Some installations may require several days’ notice.
• Garbage and recycling collection: Look up your new area’s pickup schedule and set reminders.
• Mail forwarding: Update your address with Australia Post, banks, subscriptions, and essential service providers.

 Pro Tip: Make a checklist for each service you need to transfer, cancel, or activate and keep it with your moving documents. This step helps avoid costly lapses or penalties.

3. Prepare Appliances (Yes, Even the Fridge)

Appliances are some of the trickiest—and heaviest—items to move. Without proper preparation, they can leak, get damaged, or cause accidents during transit. That’s why it's essential to get ahead of things, especially when it comes to items like refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens.

Refrigerator

• Defrost at least 24 hours before the move. Ice buildup can melt and leak during transport.
• Wipe down the interior and leave the doors slightly open to avoid mould and odour.
• Remove any loose shelves or trays and pack them separately.
   

Washing Machine

• Drain all water from the hoses and internal drum.
• Remove or secure the hoses in a labelled plastic bag.
• If possible, refer to the manufacturer’s guide on transporting the unit to avoid drum damage.
   

Other Appliances

• Microwaves, dishwashers, and ovens should be cleaned, unplugged, and have all removable parts secured.
• Use tape or zip ties to keep cords coiled and doors shut.

Pro Tip: Use masking tape to write “Fragile – Appliance” or “Do Not Tip” on the boxes or wrapped units, especially if you're not the one doing the lifting.

4. Final Sweep of Forgotten Spots

You’d be surprised how often people leave behind everyday items in hidden or hard-to-reach places. Once the big stuff is gone, take a moment to do a slow, room-by-room walkthrough. Open, check, and re-check.

Places people commonly forget to check:

• Attic or basement: Seasonal decorations, old storage bins, and tools often live here.
• Behind doors: Hanging bags, coats, mirrors or organisers can easily be missed.
• Inside built-in drawers and cupboards: Especially in the kitchen and bathroom.
• Garden sheds or garages: Don’t forget bikes, tools, hoses, and fuel containers.
• Clothesline: Towels, clothes pegs, or laundry baskets can get left behind.
• Dishwasher and washing machine: People often forget items like cups, utensils, or even clothes.
   

 Pro Tip: Use a flashlight to sweep dark areas like under beds and inside closets before you declare a room “done.”

5. Protect Your Property One Last Time

In the rush to move out, it's easy to accidentally damage walls, door frames, or flooring—especially when navigating bulky furniture and appliances. A few simple steps can prevent costly repairs (and keep landlords happy).

 How to safeguard your space:

• Lay down floor protectors such as drop cloths, cardboard, or carpet runners. This prevents scuff marks and dirt from boots or trolleys.
• Remove doorstops and cover door frames to avoid dings and scratches. Foam or fabric door frame protectors are a smart, low-cost investment.
• Use corner guards on walls to keep your paint job intact.

 Before you walk away:

• Take photos or a quick video walkthrough of the empty space. These visual records can be invaluable if there are questions or disputes later—especially for renters.

 Bonus Tip: Sweep and wipe down surfaces after everything is moved. It’s courteous, and in many lease agreements, it’s required.

6. Label Everything Clearly

In the whirlwind of moving day, it’s easy for boxes to get mixed up—especially when they all look alike. Proper labeling can save you hours of stress and confusion when it’s time to unpack.

Label by Room

Clearly write the destination room on each box—e.g., “Kitchen,” “Master Bedroom,” or “Garage.” This helps the movers (or your helpers) know exactly where to place things at the new location, so you're not dragging boxes around later.

 Use “Open First” Tags

Designate a few boxes as “Open First”—these should include things you’ll need immediately like:

• Bedding
• Coffee maker and mugs
• Towels
• Toilet paper
• Basic tools
   

Use a brightly coloured sticker or marker to make them stand out.

Mark Fragile Items Clearly

If it can break, label it “FRAGILE” on multiple sides. Also indicate which side should face up if needed. This simple step can prevent shattered dishes, broken glassware, or crushed keepsakes.

Pro Tip: Use colour-coded labels or tape for each room. This makes it even easier to sort boxes at a glance.

7. Keep Important Documents Handy

During a move, paperwork tends to get lost in the shuffle—and when you need it, you need it fast. Don’t let critical documents get buried at the bottom of a box.

What to Keep With You:

• Photo ID (driver’s licence, passport)
• Lease agreement or home purchase documents
• Moving company contract and receipts
• Insurance details (home, renter’s, contents)
• Emergency contact info
   

Store all these in a clearly labelled folder or zipped file pouch, and keep it in your personal handbag, backpack, or carry-on.

? Do Not pack these into a moving box, even if it's labelled “important.”

8. Plan for Kids and Pets

On moving day, your hands will be full—and a restless toddler or anxious pet can make things 10x harder. A little planning can go a long way in keeping everyone calm, safe, and occupied.

 For Kids:

• Arrange childcare if possible, especially for younger children.
• Pack a small “fun bag” with favourite toys, books, snacks, and a change of clothes.
• Keep electronics charged and ready (tablets, headphones).
   

For Pets:

• Book pet sitting or consider keeping them in a quiet, closed room away from the chaos.
   
• Pack an easy-access bag with essentials:
   
  • Food and water bowls
  • Treats
  • Litter box or poop bags
  • Favourite toy or blanket
  • Leash or carrier
     

 Bonus Tip: Stick to your pets’ regular feeding and walk schedules as much as possible to reduce stress.

9. Have a Plan for Leftover Items

No matter how well you pack, there’s always something left behind at the last minute—an old broom, leftover pantry goods, or clothes you suddenly decide not to take. Having a plan for these items keeps your move tidy and guilt-free.

 Donate or Dispose

Set aside a “last-minute” box for items to donate or discard. Consider local charities, community freecycle groups, or op shops for gently used items.

For everything else:

• Schedule a rubbish collection in advance, especially if you have bulky waste.
• Ensure bins are accessible and clearly marked.
   

 Leave a Friendly Note (Optional)

If you're leaving behind a rental or selling your home, a short note or bin guide for the next occupant can go a long way. Include:

• Appliance manuals
• Wi-Fi passwords (if applicable)
• Garbage collection day
• Local recommendations
   

It’s a kind gesture that makes someone else’s move-in day a little easier.

10. Do a Final Walkthrough with Your Removalist

Before you say goodbye to your old home, it’s critical to ensure everything is accounted for. A final walkthrough with your removalist ensures no box or appliance gets left behind.

 Walkthrough Checklist:

• Confirm all boxes and furniture are loaded onto the truck.
• Review your destination address and phone number with the movers.
• Double-check that nothing is still plugged in, left on, or forgotten.

Then, walk through each room—including closets, bathrooms, garage, and outdoor spaces. Open drawers and look behind doors one last time. You’d be surprised how often something gets left behind in the rush.

Conclusion

Moving day is busy, emotional, and full of moving parts (literally). But with the right checklist, you can stay in control and avoid those “I can’t believe I forgot that!” moments.

Print this checklist, mark off items as you go, and adjust it to fit your move. A little preparation now can save a lot of stress later.

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Want a smoother move without the stress?

Contact Rmoverz today—we handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on your new beginning.