Smart Movers Plan Ahead: Early Prep Is Key to a Smooth Move

When it comes to relocating your home or business, preparation isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. The smart movers aren’t those who wait until the last minute, but those who take control early. A well-planned move can mean the difference between a seamless transition and a stressful experience. Whether you're moving across Perth or just around the corner, early prep makes all the difference. So what does smart moving really look like?

Let’s unpack what it means to plan ahead—and how you can apply those tips to make your next move efficient, stress-free, and totally manageable.

Why Early Planning Separates Smart Movers From the Rest

Smart movers understand that the earlier you begin planning, the more time you have to make informed decisions. That means:

  • Comparing quotes from local removalists

  • Booking your preferred moving date (especially in busy periods like school holidays)

  • Coordinating packing and storage solutions

  • Communicating with your real estate agent or strata managers if applicable

In Perth, the demand for trusted moving services can spike quickly, especially in areas like Cockburn, Joondalup, or Mount Lawley where families and businesses are on the move. If you’re aiming for a weekend, public holiday or end-of-month move, you’ll want to lock in your booking as early as possible—ideally 4–6 weeks in advance.

Smart Movers Start With a Moving Checklist

A checklist helps keep your planning on track, prevents last-minute chaos, and ensures no detail is forgotten. Here’s a basic breakdown:

6 Weeks Out:

  • Declutter your home—donate, sell or dispose of unused items.

  • Start collecting packing materials (boxes, tape, markers, etc.).

  • Begin researching Perth-based removalists and request quotes.

  • If you need storage, start exploring container storage or local unit options.

lady practicing smart moving by decluttering

4 Weeks Out:

  • Confirm your removalist and storage bookings.

  • Begin packing non-essential items (books, seasonal clothes, decorations).

  • Notify utility providers and start change-of-address updates.

2 Weeks Out:

  • Finalise packing of infrequently used areas.

  • Confirm access/parking arrangements with your real estate agent or strata.

  • Arrange pet or childcare support on moving day, if needed.

1 Week Out:

  • Pack essentials into clearly labelled boxes.

  • Create an "open first" box with items you’ll need immediately.

  • Touch base with your removalist to confirm arrival time and access points.

Packing Like a Pro: A Key Trait of Smart Movers

One of the most underestimated parts of smart moving is packing. Done right, it protects your belongings and reduces unloading time. Done wrong, it leads to breakages, confusion, and delays.

Tips from experienced Perth movers:

  • Label every box with its room and contents.

  • Use small boxes for heavy items like books.

  • Wrap fragile items individually and cushion with packing paper or towels.

  • Don’t overload boxes—aim for a max of 20kg per box.

  • Pack a separate overnight bag with essentials for your first night.

Need packing materials? Local suppliers like Officeworks offer affordable moving kits with everything you need.

Young girl practicing smart moving by labelling packing boxes by room

Smart Movers Know When to Store

Sometimes your move-in and move-out dates don’t line up. That’s where smart movers turn to short-term storage. Whether you need just a few days or a few months, there are flexible options across Perth.

Many locals opt for:

  • Container storage, which is cost-effective for medium-term needs.

  • Storage units, which provide better access and climate control.

If you’re not sure what’s right for you, check out National Storage or look into local providers in your suburb. When selecting a storage option, think about how often you'll need to access your items and whether insurance is included.

Smart Movers using storage containers.

What Smart Moving Looks Like on Moving Day

On the big day, the best-prepared clients:

  • Have boxes clearly labelled and ready at the door.

  • Ensure all access points are clear for the truck and movers.

  • Are available for any questions or walkthroughs with the team.

  • Keep kids and pets safely out of the way.

Top tip: If you’re moving within the metro area, try to book your slot for mid-week—Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be quieter and may offer more flexibility from removalists.

How Smart Movers Avoid Common Pitfalls

It’s not uncommon for people to underestimate the time or effort a move takes. Here’s how smart movers avoid the most common headaches:

  • Underestimating volume: Share detailed info with your removalist during quoting.

  • Last-minute packing: Start early, even if it’s just one box a day.

  • Access issues: Measure stairwells, lifts, or narrow entries to flag potential challenges.

  • Skipping insurance: Always ask if your provider includes insurance—and what’s covered.

You can also view helpful moving resources from REIWA to double-check requirements around services like gas, electricity and change of address in Western Australia.

Smart Moving Is Local, Practical and Forward-Thinking

Being a smart mover doesn’t mean spending more—it means thinking ahead. If you’re relocating in Perth, even moving within the same suburb, a bit of forward planning goes a long way. Early preparation helps:

  • Reduce stress

  • Minimise downtime

  • Protect your belongings

  • Keep your move on budget

When you prepare well in advance, you can focus more on settling in and less on scrambling at the last minute.

Pregnant smart movers relaxing after a stress free move

The Final Word from a Perth Mover Who Knows

Having supported hundreds of local relocations over the years, we know that smart movers don’t wing it. They plan ahead, they ask questions, and they work with professionals who care about doing it right.

Whether you’re booking months out or just need some friendly advice, Perth Removals and Storage is here to help make your move smooth from start to finish. Get in touch for an obligation-free quote, or browse our local removals and storage options online.