So, you’ve just moved the last box into the house of your dreams. The movers are gathering their equipment and walking out the door. Everything on your checklist has been marked off, but before you can pat yourself on the back for a job well done, you turn to face the mountain of cardboard in need of your attention.
Uh oh.
Where to start? What’s the most efficient use of your time? Has anyone flipped a light switch to see if the electricity is actually hooked up? Is the fridge cooling?
Before you send yourself into a downward spiral of questions, know that we are here to help. As one of the most trusted removalists in Sydney, we've come up with a can’t-miss list of things to do after the move is over, one that will help you prioritise what needs to happen ASAP and what can wait. Take a deep breath, and let’s dive in.
1. Check Moving Boxes and Furniture for Damage
Odds are, you’ve done your research and hired a reputable Sydney removalist team who is fully licensed and insured. Nine times out of ten, movers do a fantastic job and everything arrives safely at the new location. But to be cautious, do a visual check of all boxes and furniture to ensure everything arrived in good condition. If a box looks damaged, open it immediately to check the contents.
If anything is damaged or broken, contact your removalists in Sydney right away. They’ll work quickly to resolve any issues and ensure you're happy with their service.
2. Unpack the Essentials
After a long day of moving, you're likely exhausted. On the first night in your new home, focus only on unpacking the essentials—start with the rooms you’ll use the most, like the kitchen, bedrooms, and at least one bathroom.
Your bed doesn’t need to be fully set up yet, but you’ll definitely want sheets (even if it’s just a mattress on the floor for now). In the kitchen, unpack enough plates, cups, and silverware to get you through the first few meals. Lastly, don't forget the bathroom—find your shower caddy, towels, and toiletries. After a full day of moving, a hot shower will feel like heaven.
As the days go on, begin to prioritise your unpacking. Focus on setting up the living room and kitchen before worrying about where to store your holiday decorations.
3. Inspect Your New Home
Take time to really get to know your new space. Locate your water valve and circuit box and ensure they are easily accessible. Go through each electrical circuit to ensure they are labeled correctly so you can easily manage any future issues.
4. Change the Locks
Even if the previous owners provided all the keys, it’s a good idea to change the locks on every exterior door. For added peace of mind and home security, call a locksmith for quotes and have your home secured within a day.
5. Get Rid of Packing Materials (or Save Them…or Repurpose Them)
Unpacking can leave your new home looking like a post-holiday mess with boxes and paper everywhere. Don’t get overwhelmed—decide whether you’ll save the materials for your next move, recycle them, or repurpose them. For creative ideas on how to reuse packing materials, check out our blog on the topic (click here).
6. Update Your Address
Don’t forget to update your address! Make sure to notify companies sending you bills, medical offices, and update your car registration. Also, remember to update your details on all the online shopping sites you use regularly—there’s nothing worse than ordering something and realising it’s been shipped to your old home.
Taking care of these tasks right after the move will help you settle into your new space faster. Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying your new home, surrounded by everything you need—except that 4-speed blender (whoops!).
Here’s to making your new house a home, with a little help from your trusted removalists in Sydney!
