When planning a move, one of the most crucial decisions is determining how far in advance to book movers. Whether you're considering furniture removals locally or an interstate removalist, timing is everything. This guide will help you navigate the booking process for various types of moves, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.
Local moves: Planning ahead for a stress-free experience
For local furniture removals in Brisbane or other Australian cities, it's generally recommended to book your removalist 2-4 weeks in advance. This timeframe allows you to:
- Secure your preferred date and time
- Have ample time to pack and prepare
- Avoid last-minute rushes and potential price hikes
However, during peak moving seasons (such as summer months or end-of-month periods), it's wise to book even earlier, possibly 4-6 weeks in advance.
Interstate moves: Give yourself extra time
When it comes to interstate removalist services, such as moving from Queensland to Melbourne, you'll want to plan further ahead. Here's why:
- Interstate moves require more coordination and resources
- Availability for long-distance moves can be limited
- You may need additional services like temporary storage
For these reasons, it's best to book an interstate removalist 4-8 weeks in advance. This extra time ensures that all aspects of your move are carefully planned and executed according to your timeline and preferences.
International moves: The earlier, the better
If you're planning an international move, the golden rule is to book as early as possible. Ideally, you should start planning and booking 2-3 months in advance. This extended timeframe accounts for:
- Complex logistics involved in international shipping
- Customs and documentation requirements
- Potential delays due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances
Special considerations: Storage, timing and flexible dates
Sometimes, you might need to move out of your current home before your new place is ready. In such cases, consider the following:
- Storage solutions: Many removalists offer storage facilities. If you need storage, book your move and storage 6-8 weeks in advance to ensure availability.
- Flexible dates: If you don't have a firm move-in date but have a rough idea, communicate this with your removalist. Some companies offer flexible booking options, allowing you to secure their services with a date range rather than a specific day. Additionally, it is wise to have a plan B as in back-up, in case you cannot secure your first choice date.
- Seasonal considerations, holidays and weekends: It is worthwhile to think about the timing of your move taking these into account. Many occupations move localities during our Christmas break such as teachers and other service industries. Wintertime means fewer numbers on the move. Also, weekends and holiday periods during the year end up being more busy for removalists.
- End of leases for rentals are very often at the end of the month so this can be another busy time.
Savings in cost
Making a booking early can also save you a significant amount of money. Interstate removalist companies can often offer discounts for you making bookings early, and you can avoid the premium price that may come with arrangements made at the last minute or with little time left before the move.
Early booking may result in you being able to offset some of the moving costs, always a good idea.
Early booking benefits
- Potential cost savings
- Reduces stress having secured your removalists
- Ability to avoid peak moving times
- Ability to factor in traffic volume issues
- Time and money saving
- Ability to choose more appropriate access to a new residence
- Ability to choose the right removalist company to suit your needs
Some tips to start with
It is a wise step to do some research about your interstate or local removalists so that you can be assured of a quality service that you know will look after your precious possessions.
- Research and get a number of quotes from removalists
- Extra low quotes can be an indicator of a less experienced mover with not much reputation in the business.
- Have a look at their reviews with a particular focus on their authenticity
- Check out the level of insurance coverage that removalists have over your load
- Create a moving checklist
- Keep the lines of communication open and query any lack of communication from the removalist
The bottom line: How far in advance to book movers
While these guidelines provide a general framework, the best approach is to start planning your move as soon as you know you'll be relocating. Here's a quick reference:
- Local moves: 2-4 weeks (4-6 weeks during peak seasons)
- Interstate moves: 4-8 weeks
- International moves: 2-3 months
- Moves requiring storage: 6-8 weeks
Remember, the earlier you book, the more likely you are to secure your preferred dates and potentially lock in better rates. Whether you're moving locally in Brisbane or embarking on an interstate adventure, planning ahead ensures a smoother, less stressful moving experience.
By following these guidelines on how far in advance to book movers, you'll be well-prepared for your upcoming relocation and able to tick off one of the concerns you might have had otherwise.
Happy Moving!