Moving House in Perth: A Practical Checklist

Several weeks before the move

Start by deciding what is moving and what can be sold, donated, recycled or discarded. Walk through every room, balcony, shed and storage area. Note unusually heavy, fragile or awkward items such as stone tables, large mirrors, pianos and pot plants. An accurate scope helps a removalist plan the crew, truck and time required.

Request quotes early when your date is tied to settlement, a lease ending, school holidays or a building booking. A quote is not the same as a confirmed booking. Ask what must happen to secure the date, what the quoted rate covers and which extra charges may apply.

• Create a room-by-room inventory and identify items that need special handling.
• Measure large furniture, doorways, lifts and tight turns before moving day.
• Confirm who is responsible for disassembly, packing and reconnecting appliances.
• Keep important booking details and contact numbers together.

Plan access before packing

Parking and building access can affect a move as much as the volume of furniture. Check the distance from the loading point to each door, stair access, lift size, loading-bay rules and any time restrictions. Apartment buildings may require lift padding, a bond or a booked time window.

Rules vary between councils and buildings, so contact the relevant council, strata manager or building manager for current requirements. Do not assume a removal truck can stop in a loading zone or reserve street space without approval. Share confirmed restrictions with your removalist before the move.

Pack and label for the destination

Use sturdy cartons that close flat and can be carried safely. Place heavy items such as books in smaller boxes and lighter items in larger boxes. Fill empty spaces so contents do not shift, but avoid making cartons too heavy for one person to handle. Label the top and at least one side with the destination room and a short contents description.

Prepare an essentials bag that travels with you rather than in the truck. Include medication, chargers, keys, identity documents, basic toiletries, water, snacks, pet supplies and anything needed for children. Keep valuables and irreplaceable documents under your control.

Moving-day checks

Complete a final walkthrough once the truck is loaded. At the destination, focus first on safe access, beds, essential kitchen items and a clear bathroom. Trying to unpack every box on the first night usually creates more work; set up the basics and continue room by room.

• Keep paths clear and make sure children and pets are safely away from loading areas.
• Point out fragile, heavy and high-priority items before loading starts.
• Check cupboards, drawers, wardrobes, the garage, outdoor areas and storage cages.
• Record meter readings where relevant and keep property keys organised.
• At the new property, direct labelled boxes to their rooms and check large items before the crew leaves.