The Complete Moving-House Checklist for NZ

Six to eight weeks before

1. Step 1

   Build the move scope

   List rooms, major items, garage and outdoor contents, fragile pieces, storage needs, and both-property access.

2. Step 2

   Request comparable quotes

   Give each mover the same inventory, dates, route, and service requirements.

3. Step 3

   Declutter early

   Sell, donate, recycle, or dispose of items before paying to move them.

4. Step 4

   Plan school, pets and work

   Arrange enrolment, pet care or transport, leave, and any temporary accommodation.

Three to four weeks before

1. Step 1

   Confirm the mover

   Read the scope, price basis, inclusions, insurance options, cancellation terms, and payment schedule.

2. Step 2

   Start non-essential packing

   Label boxes by room and contents, and mark fragile or priority boxes clearly.

3. Step 3

   Arrange utilities

   Schedule electricity, internet, gas where relevant, and final meter or account arrangements.

4. Step 4

   Update important organisations

   Prepare address changes for banks, insurers, employers, schools, subscriptions, electoral enrolment, and government services.

One week before

1. Step 1

   Reconfirm access and timing

   Check keys, lifts, parking, loading bays, settlement timing, and the mover's arrival window.

2. Step 2

   Prepare appliances

   Follow manufacturer guidance for refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, and gas appliances.

3. Step 3

   Create an essentials kit

   Keep documents, medicines, chargers, toiletries, tools, cleaning supplies, food, bedding, and a change of clothes with you.

4. Step 4

   Photograph valuable items

   Record condition and serial numbers where useful, and keep irreplaceable valuables out of the truck.

Moving-day checklist

• Walk through the inventory and flag fragile, heavy, dismantled, or non-moving items.
• Keep children and pets safely away from loading areas.
• Check cupboards, sheds, roof spaces, storage lockers, outdoor areas, and appliance connections.
• Record meter readings where required and photograph the empty property.
• Confirm the delivery address, contact numbers, route, and expected arrival process.
• Before the crew leaves, check the truck and property and record any visible concern promptly.

First day in the new home

• Check utilities, locks, smoke alarms, urgent maintenance, and appliance connections.
• Direct boxes into labelled rooms rather than creating one large unpacking pile.
• Assemble beds and open the essentials kit first.
• Check larger and fragile items while the move is fresh and follow the mover's reporting process if needed.
• Keep receipts, inventory records, agreements, and photos together until everything is resolved.