Moving house? Save time, cut costs and stay in control

Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone but it often comes with tight timelines, unexpected costs and plenty of admin.

The good news? A little planning goes a long way. Whether you're buying your first home or upgrading, these simple, practical hacks can help you move smarter.

1. Start early: Planning is your biggest cost-saver

Last-minute decisions often cost more. Booking moving services early, for example, can be significantly cheaper than peak-period pricing (month-end when everyone is moving). Save yourself time and money by not procrastinating the planning! Instead, create a moving timeline as soon as your offer is accepted. Break it down into weekly tasks like:

• Finding and booking movers
• Packing room by room
• Notifying your service providers
• Updating your address

2. Declutter before you pack

Don't pay to move things you don't need. Moving is the perfect opportunity to simplify your space. Go room by room and decide what to keep, sell, donate or throw away. Selling unused furniture or appliances can even help offset moving costs - and reduce what you need to transport.

3. Compare quotes - don't just take the first option

Moving costs can vary widely depending on timing, distance and services included. For example, two moving companies may quote similar base prices - but one may charge extra for stairs, fuel or packaging materials. Always compare the full cost.

Get at least two to three quotes and check:

• What's included (packing, wrapping, insurance)
• Hourly rates versus fixed or package rates
• Weekend or month-end surcharges

When you move can impact both cost and convenience:

• Mid-month moves are often cheaper than month-end.
• Weekday moves can cost less than weekends.
• Avoid peak holiday periods where possible.

Demand drives pricing - and flexibility can save you money. So time your move strategically!

4. Pack smart to avoid damage and delays

Packing isn't just about fitting everything into boxes - it's about protecting your belongings and making unpacking easier. Consider these tips:

• Label every box clearly, by room.
• Use towels and clothing to wrap fragile items. Make sure they fit snugly without room to roll around. If in doubt - double-wrap!
• Keep essentials - like valuable documents, device chargers and adaptors, medications and toiletries - separate.
• Take photos of how electronics are set up before disconnecting them - this can make reassembly much easier.

5. Plan for the hidden costs of moving

Beyond moving trucks and boxes, there are often additional costs to consider. Budget for these if they might apply:

• Cleaning services
• Minor repairs or touch-ups
• Utility deposits or connection fees
• Short-term storage, if there's a gap between moving out and moving in. Storage costs can quickly add up if not planned for.