An interstate move is a metro move with consequences: forget something in Melbourne and it's not a fifteen-minute drive back. The fix is a countdown that front-loads the paperwork so moving week is only about boxes. Here's the four-week version we'd give a mate.
Four weeks out — lock the skeleton. Confirm your dates, book your one-way truck or van online (the instant price locks the vehicle and route), and book any overnight stop the drive needs. Give notice on your rental or line up settlement. Start the change-of-address list: electoral roll, banks, Medicare, insurance, subscriptions — every letter you get this week goes on the list.
Three weeks out — the institutions. Schools and childcare transfers, transferring or closing utilities at both ends (power and internet at the new place should be live the day BEFORE you arrive), and your vehicle: each state gives you a window to transfer rego and licence after arriving, so know your new state's rules now, not at the counter.
Two weeks out — shrink the move. Every box you don't move is money: sell, donate, tip. Start packing rooms you don't live in daily, label every box with room + contents, and keep a running 'essentials' pile that never goes in the truck: documents, chargers, medication, kids' sanity items, kettle, and a change of clothes per person.
Moving week — pack the cab deliberately. The essentials pile rides with you, not in the back. Defrost the fridge two days out. Photograph the empty home for the bond, the loaded truck before you pull out, and the gas/electricity meters on the way through the door. Load heavy-first and forward, strap everything that can slide, and leave with a full tank.
Arrival — reverse the ritual. Meters photographed, beds built first, kettle on, then drop the vehicle at the local depot with the tank full and walk away. The bond returns automatically after the check-in inspection. One flat package price, one long drive, zero balls dropped.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I book a one-way truck for an interstate move?
Two to four weeks gives the best vehicle choice, especially around end-of-month weekends. The online booking shows live availability and your instant package price.
What should I not pack in the moving truck?
Documents, medication, chargers, valuables and a night-one essentials bag ride in the cab with you. Gas bottles must travel empty and paint/flammables are best not moved at all.
How long do I have to transfer my licence and rego after moving states?
Every state sets its own window (commonly around 3 months for a licence, less for rego). Check the destination state's road authority before you move so the clock doesn't surprise you.
Need a truck or van for your own move?
Real prices, doorstep delivery, roadside assistance — T&Cs apply.
