Move Planning

Your Ultimate Moving Planning Guide

Moving doesn't have to be stressful. With over 95 years of experience, we've created this comprehensive guide to help you plan and prepare for a smooth, hassle-free move.

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Local Moving

Long Distance

International

Local Moving Planning

Even when moving locally, proper planning ensures a smooth transition to your new home. Our guide helps you prepare for every step of your local move.

Long Distance Moving Planning

Moving across the country requires additional preparation. Plan your long distance move with our comprehensive checklist and save up to 33% by booking during off-peak periods.

International Moving Planning

International relocations come with unique challenges. From customs clearance to shipping options, our experienced consultants will guide you through every step of your international move.

Moving Timeline

The key to a successful move is planning ahead. Follow this timeline to ensure you're on track for moving day.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Contact Biddulphs for an in-home survey and quote
Create a moving budget and start tracking expenses
Begin researching your new area (schools, doctors, etc.)
Start decluttering and deciding what to take
For international moves: Check passport validity and visa requirements

6 Weeks Before Moving

Book your move with Biddulphs International
Begin collecting boxes and packing materials
Start packing items you don't use often
Research and arrange pet transportation if needed
For international moves: Visit the Receiver of Revenue and your bank

4 Weeks Before Moving

Notify important parties of your change of address
Schedule disconnect/connect dates for utilities
Begin using up perishable food items
If moving schools, arrange for transfer of records
For international moves: Arrange for vehicle shipping and prepare required documentation

2 Weeks Before Moving

Confirm moving date and details with Biddulphs
Pack most items, leaving only essentials unpacked
Prepare a "Moving Day Essentials" box
Service your vehicle for a long-distance drive if applicable
For international moves: Finalize all documentation and check visa status

1 Week Before Moving

Settle all outstanding accounts in your current area
Confirm cancellation of local services (newspaper, cleaning, etc.)
Take photos of valuable items before they're packed
Pack suitcases with clothes and personal items for the first few days
For international moves: Ensure all important documents are in your carry-on

Moving Day

Be present when the movers arrive
Do a final walkthrough of your home
Check that nothing is left behind in cupboards or storage areas
Make sure your boxes and furniture are properly labeled
Keep important documents and valuables with you

Pro Tip: Save Up To 33%

Book your move during mid-month or other off-peak periods to save significantly. Our rates can be up to a third lower than end-of-month rates during these times!

Essential Documents & Contacts

Important Documents to Keep With You

Passport and personal identification
Driver's license and vehicle registration
Moving company contracts and inventory lists
Insurance certificates and policies
Medical and dental records
School records and transfer letters
Financial records and banking information
Pet vaccination records and certificates
Marriage certificates, birth certificates, etc.
Contact information for Biddulphs and destination agent

Who to Notify About Your Move

Government agencies (tax, voter registration)
Utility companies (electricity, water, gas)
Telecommunications providers (internet, phone, TV)
Insurance companies (home, auto, health)
Financial institutions (banks, credit cards)
Medical providers (doctors, dentists)
Children's schools
Subscription services
Professional associations and memberships
Family and friends

International Moving Essentials

International Relocation Requirements

When moving internationally, there are additional considerations and requirements to keep in mind:

General Requirements

Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
Visa or residence permit for destination country
Tax clearance certificate from Revenue Services
Banking emigration documentation if applicable
Marriage certificate, divorce decree for visa purposes
Birth certificates for children

Vehicle & Pet Transport

Vehicle registration and purchase invoice
Import permits for motor vehicles
Police permits for firearms if applicable
Pet vaccination certificates (especially rabies)
Veterinary health certificates (issued within 14 days)
Pet import permits for destination country

International Moving Tip

Most clients find that moving their entire household makes sound economic and emotional sense. Replacing items with foreign currency allowance should be avoided, and having familiar belongings helps you settle more easily in a new environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start planning my move?

Ideally, you should start planning your move 8-12 weeks in advance, especially for international relocations. For local moves, 4-6 weeks is usually sufficient. The sooner you start planning, the less likely you are to make hasty, incorrect decisions.

What should I take when moving overseas?

Our clients advise that moving their entire households and personal possessions makes sound economic and emotional sense. Selling effects seldom achieves a viable price, and replacing them with your foreign currency allowance should be avoided. The emotional advantages are obvious: it's far easier to settle in a strange environment with familiar objects around you.

However, certain electrical items may not be compatible at your destination, and our consultant will advise you on this during your pre-move survey.

How can I save money on my move?

You can save up to 33% on your moving costs by booking during off-peak periods (mid-month rather than month-end). Other cost-saving measures include decluttering before your move to reduce volume, packing some items yourself (non-fragile items), and comparing insurance options.

What do I need to prepare for my pets to travel internationally?

For international pet transport, you'll need to:

Have your cats and dogs inoculated against rabies thirty days prior to departure
Obtain a health certificate issued by your local veterinarian fourteen days prior to departure
Have both the rabies inoculation certificate and health certificate endorsed by the office of the State Veterinarian
Obtain import permits for your pets (required by most countries)
Check quarantine requirements: UK - six months; Australia - seven months (three in South Africa, four in Australia); New Zealand - same as Australia

How does Biddulphs transport vehicles?

For national moves, vehicles are transported on specialized car transportation vehicles. For international moves, we load your vehicle in a container and build a customized frame around it, providing protection while efficiently utilizing container space.

We'll advise you in advance of the current requirements for your destination country. It's essential to ensure that your motor vehicle complies with the legislated requirements and that you have permission to import it.

Helpful Resources

Biddulphs Brochure

Complete overview of our moving services and company history
Download PDF
Moving Inventory Checklist

Comprehensive inventory form to track all your belongings
Download PDF
Insurance Information

Important details about protecting your belongings during the move
Download PDF
International Customs Forms

Essential documentation for international relocations
View All Forms

Need Help Planning Your Move?

Our experienced consultants are ready to assist you with every aspect of your move planning. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or get personalized advice.