You’ve ticked off the big things on your moving checklist—removalists are booked, boxes are packed, and utilities are sorted (hopefully after taking a moment to compare energy providers so you’re not paying more than you need to in your new home). You’re feeling pretty organised. But as moving day gets closer, the little details start piling up.
How do I stop my cables from turning into a tangled mess?
What’s the best way to move fragile items without breaking them?
Where did I put the screws for that shelf?
We get it—moving isn’t just about the big things. The small, everyday hacks can make all the difference between a chaotic move and a smooth one. So, to help you avoid last-minute stress, here are 10 clever tricks to save time, stay organised, and quickly settle into your new home
1. Take a photo before unplugging anything and keep them neat
Before you start unplugging cables and packing things away, take a quick photo of the back of each device—your TV, modem, gaming console, or anything else with cables. It’s easy to forget which cable goes where once everything is disconnected. Having a handy photo on your phone will save you time and frustration later when setting everything up again.
As you’re packing, keep your cables neat and tangle-free. Roll each one up and secure it with a twist tie, elastic band, or masking tape. Then, place each cable in a small, labelled ziplock bag to avoid the dreaded spaghetti mess. You can even label what each cable is for, making the reconnection process a whole lot easier at your new place. No more digging through piles of cords to find the right one!
2. Wrap fragile items in things you already own
You don’t have to spend a fortune on packing supplies. You already have some of the best protective materials right in your home. Soft items like towels, blankets, scarves, tea towels, and jumpers are fantastic for wrapping glassware, dishes, and other breakables.
It’s a smart way to pack—you're not only protecting your fragile items, but you’re also efficiently using space in your boxes. Plus, it's a more eco-friendly option that reduces plastic waste. Double win!
3. Keep small pieces and screws in one place
If you’ve ever moved house and ended up with a pile of random screws, you’ll know how frustrating it can be trying to figure out what belongs where. Whether you’re taking apart a bed frame, shelving unit, or dining table, small bits and pieces can easily get lost in the shuffle.
To stay organised, pop all the screws and fittings into a small ziplock bag and label it clearly. Even better—tape that bag directly to the furniture item it belongs to. That way, everything stays together, and reassembly becomes much more manageable.
4. Invest in specialised boxes
Specialised boxes can make all the difference. Take a wardrobe box, for example—it's perfect for packing your clothes straight from the wardrobe, ensuring they stay wrinkle-free and ready to hang. Unlike the quick-and-dirty method of tossing clothes into garbage bags, which can end up torn and all over the place, a wardrobe box keeps your clothes safe. Made from sturdy cardboard and featuring a metal hanging bar, it lets you pack efficiently while protecting your clothes from damage. A simple investment like this can save you time and hassle on moving day!
5. Save space with a vacuum-seal trick
Big, fluffy items like doonas, pillows, winter coats, and cushions can take up enormous space in your boxes. If you have vacuum-seal bags, fantastic—but if not, there’s still a clever way to compress them.
Try this: place your bulky items inside a large garbage bag, insert the nozzle of a vacuum cleaner, and gently suck the air out. Once flat, quickly tie the bag off with a rubber band or zip tie. It’s a simple DIY hack that can save you loads of space and make packing much more efficient.
6. Pack a ‘first-night survival kit’
After a long day of moving, the last thing you’ll want is to go rummaging through boxes looking for a toothbrush or phone charger. That’s why a ‘first-night survival kit’ is such a lifesaver.
Pack a small bag or box with all the essentials you’ll need for your first night: toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, snacks, basic kitchen utensils, toilet paper, bedsheets, a towel, and device chargers. Think of it like packing for an overnight stay. When you arrive, you’ll have everything you need to settle in comfortably without extra stress.
7. Use colour-coded labels for easy unpacking
Unpacking is a lot easier when your boxes are clearly labelled—not just with what's inside, but also where they belong. A great way to stay organised is to use coloured tape or stickers to identify each room.
Stick a label on every side of the box so it’s visible from any angle. When your boxes arrive at the new home, you (or your movers) will know exactly where each goes. It’s a slight touch that can save you hours of confusion later.
8. Set up your electricity and gas ahead of time
Imagine arriving at your new place—ready to relax—and discovering no power. It’s one of those little things that’s easy to overlook but makes a huge difference. That’s why setting up your energy connection before moving day is important.
With Sumo, getting connected is quick and hassle-free. There are no lock-in contracts, exit fees, or complicated processes. Just simple, reliable energy that’s ready when you are. We’re here to ensure your new home feels warm, comfortable, and powered from the start.
9. Make boxes easier to carry with a simple handle trick
We’ve all struggled with heavy or awkward boxes. But here’s a little trick to make things easier on your hands—and your back. Before packing, cut out small hand-sized holes on each side of your boxes using a box cutter.
These makeshift handles make lifting and carrying much easier, especially when navigating stairs or tight corners. It's a small adjustment that can make a big difference when you're in the thick of moving.
10. Bundle your energy and internet for more savings
When you’re juggling a move, the last thing you want is to deal with multiple providers, bills, and customer service lines. Why not simplify life by bundling your energy and internet into one plan? Before you move, take a moment to compare energy providers - You might be surprised how much you can save with the right deal.
At Sumo, we offer electricity, gas, and NBN all in one place. When you bundle with us, you get a monthly discount and enjoy the convenience of one provider, one bill, and one point of contact if you ever need help. It’s one less thing to worry about, allowing you to easily focus on settling into your new space. For any support, call us on 03 9102 8400.
We’re here to help you settle in—smoothly and stress-free
Moving might feel like a lot, but planning and clever tips can make all the difference. Whether packing up your first apartment or relocating your family, these life hacks will keep you organised and on track.
And don’t forget—comparing energy plans before you move could save you a lot in the long run. If you haven’t yet sorted out your electricity and internet, we’re here to make it easy
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