Preparing for a move, how to avoid mistakes

 

Moving Tip

Moving is more than just moving your stuff - it’s a fresh start in a new environment. But if you don’t prepare thoroughly, it can lead to unexpected problems.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire moving process, from preparation to organization, and give you some practical tips to keep in mind. If you’re about to move, read on and get organized!

Before you move, make sure you’re prepared!

From choosing a moving date to contracting a mover to getting rid of unnecessary items, it’s important to take care of everything beforehand to make your move go smoothly. Get ready by checking off the following points.

✅ Essential pre-move checklist

Pick a moving date - consider peak vs low season, free days, etc.

Select a moving company - compare at least three before hiring

Choosing a moving company - consider your budget and convenience

Get rid of unnecessary items - trade-in & bulky waste disposal

Change of address and administrative formalities - change of address, utility bills and internet transfer

Inspect your new home and move-in clean - check water, electricity, gas, painting, and baseboard.

For more information on each step, please see below.

1️⃣ What’s the best moving date?

 The date of your move can make a difference to the cost and smoothness of the process.

💡 To reduce cost?

• Avoid peak season (2-3rd, 8-9th) and opt for low season (6-7th, 12-1st)

• Recommend moving on weekday mornings instead of weekends & public holidays (reduces cost)

• Handless days (9th. 10th, 19th, 20th lunar days) are in high demand > pre-booking is essential

✅ TIP : Choose a weekday morning off - season move to save money!

2️⃣ Checkpoints for choosing a mover

Request an in-person estimate (more accurate than a phone estimate)

Beware of too-cheap movers (they may charge you extra)

Make sure you have a contract in writing (find out what’s covered in case of damage)

Packers vs movers, which is better?

• Packers and movers : Pack, transport, and organize your belongings for you (cost UP / convenience UP)

• General movers : pack and transport your belongings yourself (less cost / more labour)

✅ TIP : Each company has different prices and services, so make sure to compare before choosing!

3️⃣ Pack less and save on moving costs!

Reducing your belongings before moving will save you money + increase your space.

☑️ Efficient packing tips

Thrifting : Carrot market, yard sales, etc.

Donate : Donate clothes & appliances

Dispose of bulky waste : report to your local ward office and take it away

✅ TIP : Reducing unnecessary items will reduce your moving costs!

4️⃣ Change of address & administrative processing

If you don’t change your address in time after moving, it can cause inconvenience to your life.

Here’s what you need to do

Notify your new address and get a confirmation date (visit your local civic centre or apply online)

Apply for electricity, gas, water, and internet service transfer

Apply for the post office’s mail change service

✅ TIP : Apply for a change of address with your main organization (banks, insurance companies, telecoms)

5️⃣ Home inspection & move-in cleaning

Before moving into your new home, it’s essential to check that the electricity, gas and water are in working order.

✔️ Checklist

Check the condition of wallpaper, floors, and windows

Check toilet and sink drainage

Check if any fixtures included in the existing contract are working

✅ TIP : Hiring a cleaning company can make your move-in day even more convenient!

What to do after the move

Just because moving day is over doesn’t mean you’re done - there’s still a lot to organize, so don’t miss out!

💡 Post-move checklist

• Get your move-in declaration and confirmation date

Organize your packing materials and trash

• Identify nearby amenities (grocery stores, hospitals, public transport)

✅ TIP : Dispose of rubbish as soon as possible after the move or it will pile up!

📌 Wrapping Up - Moving is perfect when you prepare like this!

Planning your move thoroughly in advance will save you money + minimise stress

✅ Moving preparation summary

• Choose a moving date : avoid peak season, weekday mornings are recommended

• Hire a mover : compare at least 3 companies & make sure you have a contract in place

• Organize your belongings : trade-in, donate, dispose of waste 

• Change your address : declare your move & transfer utility bills

• Inspect your new home : check water, electricity, gas, and fixtures

Using a checklist will make your move much easier.

Get organized and start living comfortably in your new home!

More detail, Moving Skill and TIP