A Step‑by‑Step Guide to Setting Up Utilities and Booking Movers Before Move‑In
Moving to a new place is exciting and challenging, but planning in advance to set up utility services and hiring movers before move‑in brings key benefits. You save time, avoid service gaps, and reduce stress on the moving day. It ensures your electricity, gas, water, and internet are ready when you arrive. In this article, we show clear steps to plan your timeline, book trusted movers and arrange all utility transfers for a seamless start to your new home. Follow each section to stay on track and avoid last‑minute surprises.
Plan Your Moving Timeline
4–6 Weeks Before Move
Start planning 4 to 6 weeks before moving day. Create a list of key tasks such as booking movers, ordering packing supplies and contacting energy providers. Contact your current electricity, gas and water retailers to schedule disconnection. Research new providers at your destination address. Early planning helps compare plans, lock in dates and avoid fees and service gaps at move‑in.
2 Weeks Before Move
About two weeks before your move, confirm your booking with the removalist and check for any updates. Reach out to current electricity, gas and water providers to set disconnection dates at least two business days before moving. Schedule new service activations for one day before move‑in at your address, and pack a box with essential items for your first day.
Choose and Book Your Moving Service
Research and Compare Movers
Start by checking that each moving company holds AFRA accreditation. This ensures professional training and industry standards. Read customer reviews to judge reliability and care. Use booking platforms like Connect Market to find and book local Melbourne movers by price, service and availability. Obtain detailed quotes from at least three providers. Comparing offers early lets you spot the best rates and secure your preferred date.
Confirm Moving Details and Insurance
After you pick a mover, confirm the exact date, start time and estimated duration. Share your floor plan, parking access and any special handling needs. Check that basic transit insurance covers your items and consider extra goods‑in‑transit cover for high‑value belongings. Discuss storage options if needed. Clear communication helps avoid surprises and extra fees on moving day.
Arrange Utility Transfers and Connections
Electricity and Gas Setup
Contact your chosen electricity and gas provider at least three business days before moving. Book a connection for one day before move‑in to ensure power is on when you arrive. Gas connections can take up to three days, so plan accordingly. Keep confirmation numbers handy and call if installers miss an appointment. Clear timing avoids living without power or gas after you move.
Water and Internet Activation
Arrange your water connection at least one week before moving. Contact your water retailer to set the start date and confirm if a meter reading is needed. For the internet, choose an NBN plan and book installation at least two business days before move‑in. This ensures you have access to water and internet without delays after you arrive at your home.
Use the NSW Energy Compare Tool
New South Wales homeowners can use the NSW Energy Compare Tool to find the best electricity deal. Enter your address and upload a recent bill to compare offers from multiple retailers. This free service shows clear price and plan comparisons, helping you save on energy costs before you move into your house.
How Connect Market Simplifies Service Selection
Finding Professional Movers in Melbourne
Connect Market lets you compare moving companies in Melbourne. Enter your move details and get quotes from trusted removalists. See each company’s customer rating, price and AFRA accreditation status at a glance. You can filter results by availability and additional services such as packing or storage. Choosing movers through a comparison site saves time and helps you book with confidence.
Comparing Electricity Providers
With Connect Market, you can compare electricity plans from major Adelaide energy providers. Enter your address and usage details to see rates, contract length and exit fees. Sort plans by estimated annual cost or green energy options. Once you pick a plan, Connect Market handles the switch and notifies both your old and new retailer. This service makes changing electricity simple.
Prepare for The Moving Day
Pack an Essentials Box
Prepare a clearly labelled essentials box for move day. Include key items like chargers, power banks and basic tools. Add important documents such as leases, ID and utility contact details. Pack a small kit with tea, coffee, snacks and bottled water. Having this box handy means you can settle quickly and avoid sifting through dozens of boxes on your first night.
- Chargers and power banks
- Utility bills and provider contacts
- Snacks and bottled water
- Toothbrush, toiletries and towel
- Basic tools (screwdriver, pliers)
Final Checks and Confirmations
On move day, take final electricity and gas meter readings at your old home and note the numbers. Confirm your mover’s arrival time and parking access at both addresses. Call each utility provider to confirm connection times at your new home. Share any lockbox codes or gate details. These checks help you avoid surprises and keep your move‑in on track.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Move
Label all your boxes clearly by room and content to make unpacking easier. Create an inventory list to track your items during transport. Confirm handover times with your landlord or agent for both old and new homes. Have a separate folder for important documents like rental agreements and insurance. These steps save time and reduce stress on moving day.
Conclusion
By planning early, booking trusted movers and arranging your utilities in advance, you can avoid last‑minute stress. The step‑by‑step timeline helps you handle bookings, service transfers and day‑of checks with confidence. Using comparison tools like Connect Market and the NSW Energy Compare Tool saves time and helps you find the best rates for moving and energy services. Follow this guide for a smooth, well‑organised and comfortable start in your new home.