Moving Day Timeline – What to Expect From Start to Finish in Melbourne
Planning a move across Melbourne? Whether you’re relocating from Ringwood to Richmond or downsizing in the eastern suburbs, moving day can either run like a well-oiled machine… or spiral into chaos.
The difference comes down to preparation — and knowing exactly what to expect on moving day.
At Maroondah Removals and Storage, we’ve moved thousands of Melbourne homes. In this detailed timeline, we break down every stage of the process — from early morning access checks to final evening walkthroughs — so you know what’s happening, when it’s happening, and how to make your moving day stress-free.
☀️ 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Early Morning Setup and Access Preparation
- Ensure boxes are taped, labelled, and placed near the exit
- Clear driveways and entryways
- Reserve street parking or loading zones if needed
- Disassemble any furniture if required
- Secure pets and kids
🚨 Apartment or unit? Book lift access in advance — crucial in high-density areas like Doncaster or Box Hill.
🔗 Should I Pack Myself or Use Removalists?
🚛 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Removalist Arrival & Walk-Through
- Crew introduction and walkthrough
- Highlight fragile or no-move items
- Loading route is checked and prepped
- Pre-Move Checklist signed and confirmed
📦 Got delicate items? Our crew will professionally wrap and pack your TVs, mirrors, or glassware onsite if you’ve booked our fragile service.
📦 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Furniture Loading Process Begins
- Heavy items loaded first (fridge, beds, lounge)
- Followed by boxes and light goods
- Truck secured using blankets, straps, trolleys
- Check water, power, drawers, cupboards before leaving
⏱️ A typical 3-bed home in Melbourne takes 3–4 hours to load (depending on access & prep).
🚚 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: In Transit to the New Property
If you're moving locally — say Heathmont to Bayswater — allow 30–45 minutes travel time. For regional or metro-wide moves, we’ll keep you updated during transit.
- Carry personal items with you
- Keep your essentials box handy
- Have refreshments at the new place — it’ll help
🏡 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: New Home Unloading & Furniture Positioning
- Large items placed first, followed by boxes
- Furniture reassembly available (ask us!)
- Unwrapped and positioned to your preference
- Fragile items handled last with care
💬 Want setup tips? Read our Moving Home guide.
🌙 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Final Checks, Debrief & Wind Down
- Final walkthrough with you
- Confirm item placement and condition
- Complete paperwork and sign-off
🏡 Keep a go-to box with toothbrush, chargers, and snacks — you’ll thank yourself at 8pm.
🐶 Got little ones or pets? Read: Moving with Kids and Pets in Melbourne.
📌 Moving Day Timeline Summary
| Time | Action |
|---|---|
| 7:00–9:00 AM | Final prep, access cleared, pets secured |
| 9:00–10:00 AM | Removalist arrival, walkthrough |
| 10:00 AM–1:00 PM | Furniture & box loading |
| 1:00–3:00 PM | Travel to new location |
| 3:00–5:00 PM | Unloading and reassembly |
| 5:00–7:00 PM | Final checks, paperwork, wrap-up |
✅ Want Moving Day to Run Smoothly?
With 30+ years of hands-on experience across Melbourne’s east, we know how to make your move smooth, safe, and efficient.
- Pre-packing and unpacking available
- Furniture setup and disassembly
- Special care for fragile goods
- Local, regional, and interstate removals
- Short-term storage solutions
📞 Call us today on 0455 515 566 or get a free online quote — and take the stress out of moving day.
Melbourne Moving Day Timeline FAQs
What time will the removalists arrive on moving day?
At Maroondah Removals, we typically arrive between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, depending on your booking. We confirm arrival times the day before and provide real-time updates on the day to ensure a smooth start to your move.
How long does the furniture loading process take?
The duration varies based on the size of your home and the volume of items. For a standard 3-bedroom house, loading typically takes 2–4 hours. Our experienced team at Maroondah Removals ensures efficient and careful handling of your belongings.
Do I need to be present during the move?
While it's beneficial for you to be present to answer questions and provide guidance, it's not mandatory. If you can't be there, ensure someone you trust is available to liaise with our team. Maroondah Removals prioritizes clear communication to meet your expectations.
What should I do to prepare my home before the removalists arrive?
Ensure all boxes are packed and labeled, pathways are clear, and any items not being moved are set aside. If you have pets or children, consider arranging care for them during the move. Maroondah Removals provides a comprehensive pre-move checklist to assist you.
Will the removalists disassemble and reassemble my furniture?
Yes, our team is equipped to disassemble and reassemble standard furniture items. For complex or specialty pieces, please inform us in advance so we can allocate the necessary time and tools. Maroondah Removals ensures your furniture is handled with care.
How do you protect fragile items during the move?
We use high-quality packing materials, including bubble wrap, furniture blankets, and sturdy boxes, to safeguard fragile items. Our team is trained in handling delicate belongings to minimize the risk of damage. Maroondah Removals also offers specialized packing services for added protection.
What happens if there's a delay on moving day?
Delays can occur due to unforeseen circumstances like traffic or weather. We maintain open communication and provide updates to keep you informed. Maroondah Removals is committed to punctuality and will work diligently to minimize any disruptions.
Can you move my plants and perishable items?
We can transport plants and perishable items over short distances, but it's best to discuss these items with us beforehand. Some plants may require special care, and perishable goods are typically better transported by you. Maroondah Removals aims to accommodate your needs wherever possible.
Do you offer unpacking services at the new location?
Yes, Maroondah Removals offers unpacking services to help you settle into your new home quickly. We can unpack boxes, set up furniture, and remove packing materials, providing a seamless transition to your new space.
How can I get a quote for my move?
You can request a free, no-obligation quote by visiting our website or calling us directly. Maroondah Removals provides transparent pricing tailored to your specific moving needs, ensuring you receive the best value and service.