Moving to a new home is exciting — but it can also feel a little overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. There are boxes to pack, furniture to lift, things to remember, and a lot of emotions involved. The good news is that with the right plan and some smart tips, your move can be smooth and stress-free.
Whether you’re moving down the street or across Melbourne, this guide will help you understand what to do, how to prepare, and what to expect on moving day.
1. Start Planning Early
The biggest mistake first-time movers make is waiting until the last minute. Moving isn’t something you can organize overnight.
Here’s a simple timeline to keep things on track:
4 weeks before moving:
Book your moving company.
Declutter your home.
Create a moving checklist.
2 weeks before moving:
Start packing things you don’t use daily.
Inform your utility providers and update your address.
Arrange school transfers if needed.
1 week before moving:
Pack most of your belongings.
Label all boxes properly.
Confirm moving day details with your movers.
1 day before moving:
Pack your personal essentials in a separate bag.
Make sure everything is ready to load.
Get a good night’s rest.
Early planning helps reduce stress and avoids last-minute panic.
2. Declutter Before You Pack
One of the best moving tips is “Don’t pack what you don’t need.”
Go through every room and separate items into three categories:
Keep
Donate
Throw away
This not only saves you time but also reduces moving costs. Why pay to move things you’ll never use again?
Pro tip: Start with clothes, books, and kitchen items. Be honest with yourself — if you haven’t used something in a year, it’s time to let it go.
3. Get Quality Packing Supplies
First-time movers often underestimate how many boxes they’ll need. It’s better to have more boxes than to run out halfway through packing.
Here’s a list of basic packing supplies you’ll need:
Sturdy moving boxes (in different sizes)
Packing tape
Bubble wrap
Packing paper
Permanent markers for labeling
Mattress and furniture covers
Using the right packing materials will help protect your belongings during the move. Don’t rely on old or weak boxes — they can break easily.
4. Label Everything Clearly
Labeling boxes properly will make your unpacking process so much easier.
A simple system works best:
Write what’s inside each box.
Note which room it belongs to.
Mark fragile items.
For example: “Kitchen – Plates & Cups – Fragile.”
This way, movers know exactly where each box goes, and you won’t have to open 10 boxes just to find your toothbrush.
5. Pack Smart, Not Hard
Packing isn’t just about putting things in boxes — it’s about doing it the right way.
Pack heavy items (like books) in small boxes.
Pack lighter items (like bedding) in large boxes.
Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or towels.
Fill empty spaces with packing paper to prevent movement.
Pro tip: Keep essential items like medicines, important documents, phone chargers, and a change of clothes in a separate “essentials box” or bag.
6. Take Care of Your Furniture
Furniture can be tricky for first-time movers. Some pieces are heavy, others need to be disassembled.
Remove drawers and cushions to make lifting easier.
Use furniture sliders or blankets to protect floors.
Disassemble large items like beds and desks if needed.
Wrap furniture in covers to prevent scratches.
A good moving company will help with this, but it’s always smart to prepare in advance.
7. Hire Professional Movers
Trying to move everything yourself can be stressful, time-consuming, and risky. Professional movers have the experience, tools, and equipment to handle heavy and fragile items safely.
Hiring a trusted company like Best Ozi Movers in Melbourne can make a huge difference. They’ll take care of loading, transporting, and unloading — so you can focus on settling into your new home.
When choosing movers, make sure to:
Check their reviews.
Ask for a clear quote.
Confirm insurance coverage.
Choose a company experienced with local Melbourne moves.
8. Take Care of Utilities and Address Changes
Before moving day, make sure all your utilities (electricity, gas, internet, and water) are set up at your new place.
Also, don’t forget to update your address with:
Your bank
Employer
School
Insurance provider
Post office
This ensures you don’t miss any important mail or services.
9. Be Ready on Moving Day
Moving day can be busy, but if you prepare well, it doesn’t have to be stressful.
Here are a few tips to make the day go smoothly:
Keep pathways clear for movers.
Double-check all rooms before leaving.
Stay hydrated and have snacks on hand.
Be available to guide the movers if needed.
10. Unpack the Smart Way
Once you arrive at your new home, it’s tempting to unpack everything right away. But take it step by step.
Start with:
Essentials box (toiletries, chargers, kitchen basics)
Bedroom (bed, pillows, sheets)
Kitchen (plates, pots, cutlery)
This will help you settle in quickly and make the first night in your new home comfortable.
11. Explore Your New Neighborhood
Moving isn’t just about the house — it’s also about starting a new chapter in your life. Once you’ve unpacked the basics, take some time to explore your new neighborhood.
Visit nearby shops and cafes.
Introduce yourself to neighbors.
Check out local parks and walking tracks.
Feeling familiar with your new surroundings will help you feel at home faster.
12. Stay Positive
Even with the best preparation, things might not always go perfectly. A box might get misplaced, or unpacking may take longer than expected. That’s okay.
Moving is a big change, and it takes time to adjust. Stay patient, keep your sense of humor, and remember — you’re starting something new and exciting!
Are You Looking for Moving Help in Melbourne?
Make your first move easy and stress-free with the experts. Choose Best Ozi Movers in Melbourne — professional, reliable, and trusted movers who handle your belongings with care.
Call today to book your move!
FAQ’s About Moving Advice for First-Time Movers in Melbourne
Q1: How far in advance should I book a moving company?
A: It’s best to book at least 4 weeks before your moving date, especially during busy seasons.
Q2: How many boxes will I need for a small house?
A: For a 2-bedroom home, you might need around 20–30 boxes, depending on how much stuff you have.
Q3: What should I do the night before moving?
A: Pack your essentials, charge your phone, and make sure everything is ready for the movers in the morning.
Q4: How long does a local Melbourne move take?
A: Most small local moves can be completed in 4–8 hours, depending on the distance and number of items.
Q5: Can movers help with packing too?
A: Yes, many professional movers offer full packing services to save you time and effort.