Quick answer
A moving house checklist should cover booking the movers early, sorting and packing room by room, arranging utilities and final meter readings, updating your address with banks, SARS and other accounts, and protecting valuables and documents on moving day.
Start a few weeks before the move if you can. Most last-minute stress comes from packing and admin left until the final days.
Step-by-step guidance
- A few weeks out: get written quotes from movers, confirm the date and check what insurance cover they offer.
- Sort your belongings, then donate, sell or discard what you do not need before packing.
- Pack room by room, label each box with its room and contents, and keep a separate box of essentials for the first night.
- Arrange final meter readings and closing or transferring your municipal account, and set up utilities and internet at the new home.
- Update your address with your bank, SARS, medical aid, insurers, employer and the vehicle licensing office, and do a walk-through inspection with your landlord if you are renting.
What to check
- Movers' written quote and insurance cover
- Access, parking and lift bookings at both addresses
- Keys, remotes and alarm codes for the new home
- Important documents and valuables kept with you
Common mistakes to avoid
- Leaving packing until the last weekend
- Not labelling boxes
- Forgetting to cancel or move debit orders, subscriptions and deliveries
- Packing medication, chargers and documents in the moving truck
Related nearby services
NearMe lists 25 moving companies across South Africa, with the most in Gauteng (10), KwaZulu-Natal (6) and Western Cape (4). 96% include a phone number, so you can check before you go.
This guide gives general information only. Rules, fees and requirements can change, so confirm details with the provider or the relevant authority. NearMe is an independent directory, not the provider.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I book movers?
As early as you can, especially at month-end, when many people move.
Do I need to tell SARS I have moved?
Yes, keep your details up to date with SARS, which you can usually do on eFiling.
What should I pack first?
Items you use least, such as seasonal clothes, books and ornaments. Pack everyday items last.