Top Tips to Prevent Common Mistakes During Interstate Relocation

Moving from Brisbane to Melbourne, an interstate move requires planning and proper organisation. Even when the two cities are neighbouring, moving requires significant time, effort, and resources because the distances between towns, organisational challenges, and cultural differences impact the process.

Though there are numerous moving mistakes, knowing how to avoid them and the right relocation strategies will make the moving process successful. This blog will offer a detailed guide on how to manage your interstate move efficiently with Brisbane to Melbourne movers.

1.  Start Planning Early

It is crucial to avoid one of the biggest mistakes, namely the need for a plan during a move. Relocating across the state is a vast process, and preparation at the eleventh hour tends to be stressful.

It would help if you began preparations 6-8 weeks before your move by making a list of tasks to complete, including booking movers, connecting utilities, and gathering necessary documents. Essential tasks to handle early include:

• Booking a moving company.
• Informing your landlord (if renting).
• Sorting and packing your belongings.
• Arranging the disconnection and connection of utilities (e.g., electricity, gas, internet).

2.  Hire a Reputable Moving Company

The most important step a person will take, in particular at some stage in an interstate flow, is locating the proper employer to hire for help. Some of the said mistakes include selecting the lowest online writing company and failing to research for its reliability or failing to ask about the services provided. To avoid these pitfalls, take a shortcut and do your homework; don’t be afraid to ask questions.

• Research multiple moving companies: Read reviews on websites like Google or Trustpilot and compare feedback from previous customers.

• Get detailed quotes: Make sure you fully understand what each quote includes; this depends on your insurance, packing services, and any additional costs if you are moving from afar.

• Check credentials: Check that the moving company is authorised to operate interstate operations through a DOT number and must have insurance.

3.  Declutter Before Packing

Packaging all your belongings has disappointing drawbacks; it will save you some bucks. Declutter before the move to reduce the workload and potentially diminish moving costs. Household belongings still in working condition should be donated to charity or given to others, if any is available.3

This way, you can offload items of value that you no longer require on websites like Gumtree or the Facebook marketplace. Recycle or adequately eliminate products that are either no longer in use or damaged.

4.  Organise Your Packing Systematically

Being organised during packing is critical to avoiding mistakes, especially long-distance moves. Rather than haphazardly throwing items into boxes, pack them systematically as:

• Pack room by room: This method helps keep everything organised and makes it easier to unpack in your new home.

• Label boxes clearly: Label the room and what is on each box to simplify unpacking.

• Use sturdy packing materials: Ensure you get good quality boxes, bubble wraps, and the best packing tapes to reduce breakages during the long trip.

5.  Be Aware of Biosecurity and Quarantine Restrictions

Australia has stringent laws on biosecurity, more so when moving some products from one state to another. If you’re bringing plants, soil, or certain food items with you from Brisbane to Melbourne, it’s crucial to understand what’s allowed:

• Plants and soil are limited because pests and diseases can accompany purchased plants and soil.

• Food itemslike fresh fruits, vegetables, and honey may also be prohibited.

6.  Notify Essential Services and Change Your Address

Many people overlook the change of address notification and do not take the time to do it. To avoid this, make sure you update your address with:

• Utility providers (electricity, gas, water): Always cancel accounts for the old place and activate ones for the new house in Melbourne.

• Government agencies: Have your new address registered with the AEC, the Australian Taxation Office, and any other government agency you deal with.

• Postal services: Register for mail forwarding service with the Australia Post so that critical communications are kept from the new owners to discover when you have moved out of your home.

• Banks, insurance providers, and other services: Inform your banks, any other financial institutions, newspapers, and magazines to which you subscribe of your new address.

7.  Prepare for Melbourne’s Climate

Melbourne is hotter than Brisbane due to the prevailing weather conditions. In terms of weather, Brisbane’s climate is subtropical, sure that one will require warm clothing throughout the year, whereas Melbourne’s climate is severely cold in winter and relatively unpredictable. To avoid being caught off-guard:

• Bring warm clothing as Melbourne has a cooler winter with clothes like coats and scarves.

• Be prepared for changeable weather. Melbourne is well-known for having 4 seasons in the future. Therefore, you have to pack for numerous climates, along with a rain jacket and an umbrella.

8.  Consider Professional Packing and Unpacking Services

Packing can be tiresome, so consider hiring packing services if you need more time or want to safely place your items in a box. While this might be an additional expense, it can significantly reduce your stress.

Professionals pack efficiently, often completing the job much faster than you could. They have suitable materials to protect fragile and valuable items.

9.  Understand Interstate Travel Rules

If you are driving to Melbourne or transporting a vehicle, make sure you are familiar with interstate travel regulations:

• Plan your route carefully because the distance from Brisbane to Melbourne can take over 18 hours, so making plans for relaxation stops and refuelling is vital.

• Check road safety regulations between Queensland and Victoria, including speed limits and toll road requirements.

10.              Budget for Hidden Costs

Interstate moves often come with hidden costs that are easy to overlook. To avoid surprises, plan for expenses such as:

• Fuel or flight costs for yourself and any family members.

• Temporary accommodation if there is a gap between leaving your Brisbane home and settling in Melbourne.

• Storage fees if your new home isn’t ready for immediate move-in.

• Utility connection fees for electricity, gas, and water in your new home.

Wrapping It Up

Moving from Brisbane to Melbourne may be complex, but cautious planning makes it viable. Stay prepared on a moving day by retaining critical documents with you and ensuring your movers recognise your timetable. By starting early, preparing for the new city’s weather, and with the assistance of professional interstate movers in Melbourne, you can ensure a smooth transition and enjoy your new home.