Collect packing boxes
Moving can be costly, but there are plenty of ways to keep moving costs down and that starts with packing boxes. Save money on packing by taking regular trips to your local shops leading up to your move. You’ll find most supermarkets and local stores are more than happy to get rid of their unwanted boxes.
Organise a removalist (or enlist your mates)
Hiring a professional removalist service can definitely relieve some stress on moving day, but it’s an added cost you’ll need to consider.
If you’re trying to stick to a budget, consider whether you really need a removalist.
Ask yourself:
- Could you enlist the help of friends and family for the move?
- Will you be able to transport large pieces of furniture?
- Will you need to hire a truck?
- Are you under time constraints for the move?
If you don’t think you can do it yourself or just want to remove one (big) task from your plate, hiring a removalist can smooth out the process for you. Shop around for prices and make your booking far in advance.
Consider renting a skip bin
When you start going through your things, you’ll probably realise just how much stuff you have, and there’s no better time to get rid of things you no longer need than when you’re moving house.
You’ll find when you’re sorting through what to keep and what to let go of, a lot it’s rubbish. It might be worthwhile organising a skip so it’s out of the way and you can focus on packing. If there are items of value you’re thinking about parting with, don’t throw them away – there are plenty of second-hand shops and charities around that are always looking for donations for those in need.
Make arrangements for your pets
Moving house can be stressful for our furry friends. So, if you have a pet, ask friends or family if they might be able to look after them for a few days during the move. If you’re lucky enough to secure them a babysitter, visit them with your pet in the lead up to your move so they can get used to the people and their surroundings.
Making sure your pet feels safe and comfortable during a move is important, so we’ve put together a pet moving checklist full of handy tips for moving house with cats and dogs.
Get connected (and disconnected)
Disconnecting and connecting utilities is quick and easy, though it can take up to 3 business days do get sorted, so make sure to plan ahead to ensure you’re not left in the dark.
Once you know your move out date, you can arrange for your utilities to be disconnected and connected to the new property on move in day.
For Origin electricity connections, just let us know about your move before 1pm Monday to Friday and we’ll make sure the power is on the next business day.
Set and forget your energy payments
You’ll have enough to worry about post-move, so set your energy accounts up on either an ongoing payment plan or direct debit. With our ongoing payment plans, you can choose to set up monthly, fortnightly or monthly instalments, and we’ll calculate your repayments based on your usage forecast to ensure your bill is always covered. You can choose to pair this either with a direct debit or set up BPAY payments via your bank. Set and forget to tick one piece of life admin off your to-do list.
Get your internet connection sorted
Get your internet connection sorted ahead of time so when the moving is done you can sit down, unwind and stream your favourite show the day you move in.
To sort out your internet connection early, you’ll need to contact your internet service provider at least three weeks before you move in. Your provider will usually be able to offer you the same plan, though pricing depends on where you live and the type of broadband connection available at the property you’re moving in to. Relocating internet connections may attract a fee so it’s a good idea to compare broadband plans under your new address.
Our customers can benefit from bundling their internet and energy plans with us. Meaning you can get $10 off your internet bill each month. Over the year, that’s $120 of savings that you get right back in your pocket.
Bundling your internet also helps with life admin tasks, as you’ll only have to deal with the one provider for your energy and internet. And who doesn’t love a little extra time back in their day?
Moving House FAQs
Do I need to close my account when I move?
Yes, we recommend closing your account with us when you move, to ensure you’re not financially responsible for the next tenants’ usage. Simply let us know you’re moving via My Account. It’s super quick – we’ll just need your new address and move in date, and you can select the date for your current property’s disconnection.
Will I have the same account number?
No, when you open a new account for the property you’re moving into you’ll receive a new account number. Be sure to update your payment details.
How do I prepare for the connection?
To prepare for your utility connections, make sure there is safe and clear access to the electricity meter. If you live in Queensland or New South Wales, you may need to be at the property to have electricity connected to your house.
What if I have a concession card?
You may be eligible for a concession or rebate on your bill if you’re the primary account holder on your Origin account and you hold a valid concession card.
Valid concession cards include:
- Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Cards
- Pensioner
- State Health Care
- Queensland Senior
See our concessions and rebates page to find out which rebates you may be eligible for in your state.
How much notice do I have to give to get connected?
Energy connections are quick and easy. Simply book your move online using the form for either new or existing customers before 1pm Monday to Friday and we’ll connect your electricity the next business day. Gas connections can take up to three business days and public holidays are excluded.
Have another question? Find more moving house FAQ’s here or call 13 MOVE (13 66 83).
