Essential Tools for a Smooth Move
So, you've secured your dream home and sorted out the mortgage (phew!). Now comes the part no one loves but everyone has to deal with – the move. Shifting all your stuff from one place to another can be daunting, but with the right tools in your corner, it doesn’t have to be a total headache.
We’re here to take the edge off and introduce you to some fantastic tools to make your move smoother and, dare we say, even enjoyable. Whether it's organising your packing, getting the best deals on removalists, or just keeping track of everything – we’ve got you covered.
1. Find Reliable Removalists Without Breaking the Bank
First things first, you’re going to need a decent removalist. But finding someone reliable who won’t cost a small fortune can be a real struggle. That’s where Upmove comes in.
Upmove helps you compare different movers, read reviews, and get quotes all in one spot. You just pop in the details of your move, and boom – you’ve got access to a bunch of options without making a dozen calls or waiting around for quotes.
Here’s a top tip: Booking your removalist early on Upmove can help you snag a better price and guarantee availability. Upmove has been shown to help cut moving costs by up to 50%, so it's a no-brainer when you want a good deal without any hassle.
2. Moving Checklist Apps – Because No One Likes Forgetting Stuff
Let’s be honest, moving is one of those jobs where it's easy to forget things – like notifying the utility companies or packing your kettle (which, trust me, you’ll want handy when you arrive). A good moving checklist app like Sortly or MoveAdvisor can be a lifesaver.
These apps give you a step-by-step guide on what needs to be done and when, helping you stay on top of everything. No more last-minute panics or forgotten tasks.
Did you know? Movers who use apps like these are 30% less likely to face mishaps or delays.
Top tip: Start your checklist early, and make sure you include tasks like cancelling your internet and setting up post forwarding. Little things like that can save you a world of stress later on.
3. Moving Cost Estimator – Know What You’re In For
One of the biggest worries people have when moving is the cost. How much is it actually going to set you back? Removalist fees, packing materials, insurance – it all adds up. That’s where a moving cost estimator comes in handy.
Using a tool like the Removalist Cost Calculator helps you get a clear picture of what the whole move is going to cost before you commit. You enter a few details – like how much stuff you’ve got and how far you’re going – and it gives you an estimate, helping you avoid any nasty surprises.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to factor in things like storage (if needed), parking permits for the removalist truck, and any extra services like disassembling furniture.
Here’s the deal: People who use cost estimators often end up saving about 15% on unexpected expenses. Being prepared is half the battle.
4. Packing and Labelling Tools – Stay Organised, Stay Sane
Packing might be the most dreaded part of moving. But it’s also one of the most important. If you don’t pack properly, you’ll be pulling your hair out when you’re trying to find things in your new place.
The trick is to stay organised. Colour-coded labels or using an app like Sortly can be a game changer. You can track everything you pack, label boxes by room or category, and even take photos of your stuff for easy unpacking.
Pro tip: Label your boxes with both the room they’re going into and a short description of the contents. That way, when you arrive at your new place, you’ll know exactly what goes where and can avoid tearing through boxes trying to find your toothbrush!
Here’s a fun fact: A well-organised pack can cut unpacking time by up to 40%. That’s a lot of time saved to actually enjoy your new home.
5. Insurance Comparison Tools – Don’t Skimp on Peace of Mind
We’ve all heard the horror stories – someone’s prized TV gets smashed in the move, or an irreplaceable family heirloom gets damaged. Moving insurance might seem like an extra expense, but it’s one worth considering for your peace of mind.
Using a comparison tool like iSelect or Canstar, you can quickly find the best deals on moving insurance and ensure your stuff is covered in case anything goes wrong.
Top tip: Take pictures of your valuable items before the move so you’ve got evidence if you need to make a claim. It’s a simple step that could save you a lot of hassle down the line.
Did you know? Only 30% of movers get proper insurance, yet 10% experience damage during their move. Don’t be part of that unlucky group!
6. Home Inventory Apps – Keep Track of Your Stuff
For those of us with a lot of valuables or fragile items, it can be a bit nerve-wracking to trust a removalist with all our worldly possessions. That’s where home inventory apps like Encircle come into play.
These apps let you document everything you’re moving, take photos, and record details about the condition of your items. That way, if anything does get lost or damaged, you’ve got a full record for insurance claims.
Pro tip: Prioritise your most valuable and fragile items. Take photos and note any pre-existing damage – it’ll make things much easier if you need to file a claim.
Here’s a stat for you: People who create detailed home inventories are 20% more likely to receive full compensation on insurance claims.
7. Utility Connection Services – Save Time on the Mundane Stuff
No one wants to spend hours on the phone sorting out their utilities – electricity, gas, water, broadband – it’s a long list. Luckily, there are tools like ConnectNow or Direct Connect that do the legwork for you.
These services help you switch over all your utilities in one go, saving you time and the headache of juggling multiple providers.
Top tip: Start the process at least a week before you move. That way, you’ll have everything set up when you arrive at your new home.
Here’s a bonus: These connection services can save you around 4 hours of phone calls and form filling. That’s a few extra hours you can spend unpacking – or celebrating your new place.
Wrapping It Up
Moving house doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right tools in your back pocket, you can turn it from a stressful experience into one that’s organised, efficient, and (dare we say it) enjoyable. From booking removalists on Upmove to keeping track of your stuff with smart packing and inventory apps, these essential tools will make your move smoother and easier.
So, whether you’re moving across the street or across the country, don’t just wing it. Get organised, use these tools, and you’ll be unpacking in no time. Best of luck with your new home – and remember, Upmove is your first stop for a stress-free move.
