Most schools close this week, and for many South African families, this means more than just reports and holidays; it also marks one of the busiest periods of the year to move house. With routines on pause and children out of the classroom, this week offers the perfect opportunity for families to relocate to their new homes.
According to the 2025 Wise Move Migration Report, the moving rush starts in November already, and peaks in December when the school term ends.” Almost a third of all moves take place during this period, tapering off in January, notes the report.
Plan ahead
If possible, plan so you can compare at least three removal quotes. Wise Move notes that most moves happen on Saturdays and usually at the start of the month. For a more competitive rate, consider negotiating a mid-week or mid-month move. Stick to your budget and allow some flexibility for unexpected costs. Decide whether you’ll do your own packing or use a removal company that offers this service at an additional cost.
Start collecting boxes from friends or local supermarkets if you’re not sourcing these from the movers. Keep an eye on your neighbourhood WhatsApp group. People who have recently moved often give their boxes away. You could also consider hiring reusable crates. Make sure you have bubble wrap for fragile items and markers, furniture pads, and any other materials you may need ahead of the move, so that you are not running around on the day.
Declutter before you pack
Use the lead-up to moving day to sort through clothing and belongings. Decide what to keep, donate, or sell so that you only move what you really need. You may even want to hold a garage sale. Start packing sooner rather than later; it always takes longer than you think.
Notify service providers early
Let your bank, retailers where you hold accounts, and your children’s schools (if applicable) know your new address and moving date to avoid missing important correspondence. Don’t forget to inform services such as recycling or gardening that you’ll be relocating. Schedule disconnections for electricity, security, and internet services, and confirm reconnection dates at your new home.
Organise cleaning
Arrange a cleaning service that offers once-off help during the moving process, with packing preparation, moving of boxes, and deep cleaning of both the space you’re leaving behind and moving into. This may also be a good time to dry-clean curtains and steam-clean upholstery before you move into your new space.
Final preparations
Pack an “essentials” bag or box with your new home’s keys, a change of clothing, medication, and chargers for phones and laptops. If you have pets, include their food. For younger children, add a comfort item such as a soft toy or blanket. Keep sentimental or valuable items, such as jewellery, with you.
Plan your meals in the days leading up to the move so that you don’t waste food. Sort out your appliances: empty, defrost and clean your fridge and freezer; disconnect the washing machine and ensure the lawnmower’s petrol tank is empty.
Label boxes clearly according to the rooms they belong to. Be intentional when you pack. Heavier items should be at the bottom, and don’t overpack boxes; they should not be too heavy to be carried. Use clothing and blankets to cushion breakables and fill empty spaces.
Arrange a playdate or babysitter if you have young children. For pets, consider booking daycare or kennels so they are not distressed by the activity. Walk through your current home and take care of minor repairs such as patching nail holes and scuff marks.
The big move
It sounds obvious, but get as much sleep as possible the night before the actual move. Moving can be a stressful and tiring experience. Choose comfortable clothing and shoes that you can easily work in while lifting and handling boxes.
Keep a checklist of boxes as they leave your home so you can track their safe arrival at the new address. Order a grocery delivery to your new home for the day you arrive so you don’t have to rely on takeaway meals. Once you’ve settled in, keep saving money by lowering your energy and water consumption.
Small changes, such as setting your geyser to 55°C, installing LED globes, and using ceiling fans instead of air-conditioning, will make a meaningful difference. With the right planning and preparation, your move need not be overwhelming, concludes Bendall. “Make the start of your next chapter in your new home as hassle-free as possible.”
Article by: Bradd Bendall, BetterBond’s National Head of Sales
