Moving house is a big transition at the best of times, but it is even more so when it involves relocating the family to another state.

There's a lot to organise between packing boxes, enrolling kids in new schools, and saying goodbye to familiar faces. So, it is understandable that many people, especially kids, find it stressful.

However, it doesn’t have to be this way. With a clear plan and a bit of focus, it's entirely possible for the move to go smoothly for everyone.

From planning and packing to moving and settling into a new community, this guide will walk you through what families should do before moving out of their home to a new one. Hopefully, it will make things that little bit easier for you.

Choose a Reliable Removalist Service

The first step you should take if you are planning to relocate with your family to another state is to secure the services of a reliable removalist. It is important to do this as early in the planning stage as possible because they can get booked up pretty quickly.

For instance, if you’re looking for a local service, Muval are the best interstate removalists in Sydney and has a professional team that is particularly adept at transporting bulky or fragile items. Muval is a very popular option for many long-distance movers who are moving interstate across Australia. 

When trying to find a suitable removalist company, it is wise to compare quotes from at least three companies. Additionally, read their customer reviews and confirm what insurance coverage they offer before booking them.

What Are the Most Important Things To Do Before Moving With a Family?

When it comes to family relocation, it pays to be organised. A great way to ensure you are is to create a simple family moving checklist. This should involve writing down every task that needs doing and then setting small goals for yourselves to achieve for each week leading up to moving day.

It is recommended that you draw up this list at least a month in advance, although the earlier the better. This will give you time to get yourself organised without feeling rushed.

What Should Go On The Checklist?

So, what specifically should you put on the relocation checklist?

Here is a general guide to follow:

1. Book a removalist company
2. Thoroughly declutter your home - This will reduce the amount of, and removal cost of, the possessions you’ll take with you.
3. Dispose of unwanted items - You can do this by donating them to charity, selling on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, properly recycling them, or taking them to the tip (as appropriate).
4. Organise packing supplies: Stock up on boxes, tape, bubblewrap, labels and everything else you would need to help with the packing.
5. Start packing: Do this on a strategic room by room basis as early as possible. Begin with the rooms you use the least.
6. Secure important documents: Keep your passports, certificates, and medical records in one safe, easy-to-locate folder.
7. Notify service providers: Update your address for electricity, water, gas, and internet.
8. Enrol your kids in a new school: Complete and send through the relevant documentation.
9. Arrange for a mail redirection: You can do this for up to 12 months with Australia Post.
10. Prepare an essentials kit: This should include medications, snacks, and phone chargers that you’ll need on moving day.
11. Clean your old home: Give your old place a good tidy for the next occupants or your final rental inspection.

Following this list will help to keep the process manageable and ensure you don’t miss a key step before the big move.

How Can I Prepare My Kids and Household for a Big Relocation?

Relocating to a new area can affect children a lot more differently than adults. For them, it’s not just a new house. It involves going to unfamiliar territory, starting a new school where they don’t know anyone, and adopting a whole new routine.

A good way to prepare your children for the relocation is to talk to them early about where you’re going. It may help to show them photos of the new area and, if possible, visit your new town before the move. You could spend a day or two exploring the local parks, playgrounds, and shops. This should help the kids feel familiar with their new surroundings. 

Families moving to Lismore or the Northern Rivers can find plenty of family-friendly spots to visit. This includes heritage parks, great beaches, and weekend markets that can help your children get a feel for the area.

During the transition, it is important to keep their routine as steady as possible. So try to stick to usual bedtimes, meal schedules, and family activities as much as you can. Kids feel more secure when life feels predictable.

Settling Into Your New Home and Community

The act of moving to your new home is only part of the relocation process. Once the boxes are unpacked, you also need to settle into the property and the community.

Lismore has a strong sense of community spirit and getting involving in it can help your family settle faster and quickly feel like locals. Consider joining local sports clubs, societies or church groups to meet other people. Likewise, attending weekend events, visiting cafes and farmers’ markets, and joining Facebook community pages are good ways to connect with others.