Ultimate Checklist: Things to Do Before Moving Interstate in Australia

Moving interstate in Australia is a bigger logistical challenge than a local move because distance, timing, and regulations create more steps to manage. Many people feel overwhelmed by admin tasks, packing, and uncertain costs. This guide gives you a clear, step-by-step interstate moving checklist in Australia so you know exactly what to do before moving interstate, including planning tips, timelines, and smart ways to use storage during the transition.

Why Moving Interstate Requires Extra Planning

Interstate moving in Australia requires a higher level of preparation because the distances, schedules, and logistics are far more complex than a local move. According to Best Rated Transport, the typical cost of moving interstate ranges from AU$1,400 to AU$5,000, depending on the route and the size of the load.

For a three bedroom home, Relocations WA reports an average cost of AU$3,900 to AU$5,000.

These additional logistics go beyond standard moving house tips most people follow for local moves with higher costs reflect longer travel distances, multiple state regulations, and larger inventories to manage. When move-out and move-in dates do not align, storage solutions and temporary storage provide essential flexibility and help maintain a smooth long distance removals timeline.

State by State Admin You Must Handle Before You Move

Handling administration early is one of the most important parts of interstate moving Australia, because each state has its own rules for vehicles, pets, schools, and tenancy. Most people underestimate how long these steps take, which is why it is essential to prepare your move interstate paperwork well before your moving date.

You will need to arrange a driver’s licence update and complete your vehicle registration transfer interstate once you arrive. These requirements vary by state, and some authorities set strict deadlines for completing them. Renters should review the tenancy laws in their new state because notice periods, bond rules, and condition report formats can differ.

Families must request school transfer records and send enrolment documents to the new school. Pet owners should confirm pet registration rules and any breed or compliance requirements. Some states also have restrictions on pet breeds, vehicle modifications, and safety certificates.

Completing these tasks early ensures a smoother transition and prevents delays once you settle in your new location.

6–8 Weeks Before Moving

This stage focuses on early planning, decluttering, and securing the key bookings that shape your entire move. Use the checklist below to stay organised and aligned with your moving interstate checklist Australia.

• Declutter each room and sort items into keep, sell, donate, or dispose.
• Create a full household inventory to track what is moving.
• Decide what goes in the removalist truck versus what goes into storage.
• List items for sale on Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree.
• Research interstate removalists and request at least 2–3 removalist quotes.
• Compare backloading and dedicated truck options.
• Use a storage calculator to estimate how much space you need. A storage calculator helps when deciding how to choose the right size storage unit for your move.
• Start building your moving budget, including transport, storage, cleaning, and temporary accommodation.
• Research your new suburb for schools, parking, transport, and essential services.
• Schedule time off work for moving day and add buffer days if needed.
• Book elevator access or a loading dock if moving from an apartment.
• Confirm building access requirements, such as lift padding or reservation procedures.
• Begin collecting packing supplies like boxes, tape, and bubble wrap.
• Review interstate moving insurance to ensure your belongings are covered.
• Check the prohibited items list for paints, aerosols, fertilisers, petrol, and other restricted goods and review additional storage unit restrictions to avoid packing items that cannot be stored.
• Create a digital folder for passports, licences, receipts, contracts, and key documents.

4–5 Weeks Before Moving

This stage focuses on locking in dates, starting early packing, and preparing your home and paperwork for the move. Use the checklist below to stay on track.

• Finalise your interstate removalist booking and confirm the exact schedule.
• Reserve portable storage if you expect any move-out or move-in gaps.
• Start packing non-essential items such as books, décor, and seasonal clothing. Using a trusted self storage packing guide to keep items protected during interstate transport.
• Label every box with room, contents, fragility level, and priority.
• Measure large furniture to confirm it fits the layout of your new home.
• Notify your landlord or strata of your confirmed move-out date.
• Arrange disconnection dates for electricity, gas, NBN, and water.
• Set up utilities for your new address to ensure a smooth arrival.
• Update your home and contents insurance with the new state and dates.
• Service your vehicle or book interstate vehicle transport.
• Request medical, dental, and vet records for all household members.
• Plan pet travel, including airline crates or pet relocation services.
  
• Reduce pantry and freezer items to minimise waste.
• Confirm removalist access points such as the driveway or communal loading bay.
• Start boxing bulky items or moving them into storage early.

2–3 Weeks Before Moving

At this stage, your focus shifts to updating addresses, finalising logistics, and preparing your home for the final packing phase. Use the checklist below to stay organised.

• Submit your mail redirection request through Australia Post.
• Update your address with banks, the ATO or MyGov, insurance providers, your employer, and membership services.
• Cancel or transfer local services such as cleaners, gardeners, and gym memberships.
• Create a clearly marked Do Not Pack zone for valuables, documents, essentials, and follow recommended document storage tips if you plan to store important paperwork.
• Deep clean rooms as each space is packed to reduce end-of-lease pressure.
• Confirm short-term accommodation if you expect timing gaps between homes.
• Plan safe transport for valuables, fragile items, and oversized belongings.
• Move items you will not need immediately into your storage module.
• Confirm all pet transport and care arrangements.
• Arrange childcare for packing and moving day if needed.
• Dispose of hazardous household chemicals responsibly.
• Notify your current school of departure and confirm enrolment at your new school.

1 Week Before Moving

This final week is all about preparing essentials, finishing packing, and ensuring every detail is confirmed before moving day. Use the checklist below to stay in control.

• Pack a seven day essential kit for each household member.
• Create an Open First box with basics such as a kettle, snacks, linen, and simple cookware.
• Finish packing all remaining rooms and double check storage areas.
• Defrost and clean the fridge and freezer at least 24 hours before moving.
• Confirm the removalist arrival time and any access requirements.
• Confirm your storage pick up or delivery window.
• Back up all laptops, phones, and important digital files.
• Photograph valuable items for insurance documentation.
• Prepare your payment method if your removalist requires payment on the day.
• Clear balconies, patios, and outdoor areas.
• Complete or confirm your exit cleaning arrangements.
• Place all important documents in a folder you will carry personally.
• Confirm key handover details with your agent or settlement provider.

Moving Day Checklist

Moving day requires focus, clear communication, and a final round of checks to ensure nothing is left behind. Use this checklist to stay organised and calm.

• Wake up early and complete a full walkthrough of every room.
• Take final meter readings for electricity, gas, and water, then photograph them for records.
• Supervise removalists and confirm handling instructions for fragile or high value items.
• Check all built in cupboards, drawers, wardrobes, sheds, balconies, and outdoor spaces.
• Keep valuables, legal documents, medication, and devices with you at all times.
• Ensure the essentials box is loaded last or travels with you.
• Complete a quick clean of high touch areas if not already done.
• Lock windows, turn off lights, and switch off water mains if required.
• Return keys to the landlord, agent, or settlement provider.
• Confirm the delivery address with your movers one final time.
• If using portable storage, confirm the module is locked and transport is booked.

Tasks to Complete in Your New State

Once you arrive, these tasks help you settle quickly, meet legal requirements, and set up your new home smoothly. Use this checklist to stay on track.

• Unpack essentials first, including bedding, kitchen basics, and toiletries.
• Activate utilities and Wi-Fi if they were not connected before arrival.
• Update your driver’s licence according to your new state’s deadlines.
• Complete your vehicle registration transfer with the relevant state authority.
• Register your pets with the new local council and confirm compliance rules.
• Find nearby essential services such as a GP, chemist, supermarket, and transport routes.
• Photograph the property for your rental condition report before unpacking fully.
• Identify which items should remain in long term storage, such as seasonal gear or archives.
• Schedule delivery of any stored items once you finalise your new home layout.
• Inspect the property for any issues and notify your agent or builder promptly.

Cost and Budgeting: What to Expect and How to Save

Interstate costs vary widely, so understanding the main drivers helps you plan a realistic moving budget. Use this checklist to guide your decisions and reduce unnecessary spending.

• Typical interstate moving costs range from AU$1,400 to AU$5,000, depending on distance and volume.
• According to The Smooth Movers, relocating a three bedroom home usually costs AU$2,600 to AU$5,850.
• Key cost drivers include distance, volume of items, service level, and insurance.
• Decluttering early reduces cubic metres and can cut transport charges significantly.
• Using backloading instead of a dedicated truck can lower prices if your dates are flexible.
• Storing items for a short period can reduce load size. A two week storage gap may reduce truck space by 20 percent, lowering overall costs.
• Compare quotes from multiple providers to find the best balance between service and price.

How Super Easy Storage Makes Your Interstate Move Easier

Super Easy Storage makes interstate moving easier by giving you flexibility, security, and one-time loading. Portable storage modules arrive at your home, allowing you to load at your own pace without hiring a truck or handling items multiple times. Once packed, the module is collected and stored in a secure, CCTV-monitored facility for as long as you need. This is ideal when move-out and move-in dates do not align. When ready, your module is transported to your new state and delivered to your new address. This reduces stress, cuts double handling, and supports a smooth long distance relocation.