Moving house in Singapore is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Whether you’re collecting keys for a new BTO flat, shifting from a rented condo, or downsizing from a landed property, there are a hundred small things that need to happen at the right time.
We’ve put together this practical checklist based on what we’ve seen helping Singapore families move over the years. Save it, print it, or bookmark it, and tick things off as you go.
4–6 Weeks Before the Move
Declutter and decide what stays:
- Go room by room and sort belongings into keep, donate, sell, and dispose piles.
- List unwanted items on Carousell. You’d be surprised what sells.
- Arrange disposal for bulky items (old mattresses, broken furniture, etc.) through your town council’s bulky item removal service or a private disposal company.
Start collecting packing supplies:
- Cardboard boxes (supermarkets and provision shops often have free ones)
- Bubble wrap for fragile items
- Packing tape and markers for labelling
- Large resealable bags for small items and hardware
Book your movers early:
- Popular dates (end of month, weekends, auspicious dates) get booked fast.
- Get quotes from at least three moving companies.
- Check reviews on Google and HardwareZone forums.
- Confirm insurance coverage for your belongings during transit.
Sort out admin:
- Notify SP Group to transfer your electricity and water to the new address (you can do this online).
- Update your address with SingPost for mail redirection.
- Inform your employer, bank, insurance, and any subscription services of your new address.
- Arrange for internet installation at your new place. Singtel, StarHub, and M1 all need lead time.
2–3 Weeks Before the Move
Start packing non-essentials:
- Out-of-season clothes, books, decorations, and rarely used kitchen items.
- Label every box on the top and side with the room it belongs to (e.g., “Kitchen: pots & pans”).
- Pack a numbered inventory list so you can check everything arrived.
Prepare your new home:
- If possible, arrange cleaning before you move in.
- Check that all lights, fans, and taps are working.
- Measure doorways and corridors to confirm your large furniture will fit through.
- Plan your furniture layout. There’s nothing worse than discovering your sofa doesn’t fit after the movers have left.
Handle furniture:
- Decide if any furniture needs disassembly for the move (wardrobes, bed frames, large desks).
- Arrange for any new furniture assembly at the new place.
- If you have flat-pack furniture that was assembled in place, it may need to be partially taken apart for safe transport.
1 Week Before the Move
Final packing push:
- Pack up remaining items, leaving out only daily essentials.
- Prepare a “first night” box with things you’ll need immediately: toiletries, phone chargers, a change of clothes, basic cooking supplies, cleaning spray, and toilet paper.
- Take photos of the back of your TV and electronics setup so you know how to reconnect everything.
Confirm logistics:
- Reconfirm with your movers: date, time, address, and any special requirements (e.g., piano, heavy safe, fragile artwork).
- Book the lift for moving day. Most HDB and condo management offices require advance booking.
- If moving to a new BTO, check if your Town Council has specific moving-in procedures or time slots.
Defrost and clean:
- Defrost your fridge at least 24 hours before the move.
- Clean out the oven, washing machine, and any appliances you’re taking.
Moving Day
- Do a final walkthrough of every room, cupboard, and storage space.
- Be present to direct the movers. Tell them which boxes go to which room.
- Keep valuables with you: important documents, jewellery, laptops.
- Check the old place before handing over keys: lights off, windows locked, taps closed.
- Take photos of the empty flat’s condition (important if you’re returning a rental).
First Week in Your New Home
- Unpack essentials first: Kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom.
- Set up your internet and make sure the router is placed centrally for best coverage.
- Meet your neighbours. A small gesture goes a long way in HDB and condo living.
- Assemble any remaining furniture and mount shelves, mirrors, and artwork.
- Check for defects if it’s a new BTO. Report any issues during the defects liability period.
Need a Hand with the Heavy Lifting?
Moving is exhausting, and there’s always more to do than you expect. From dismantling old furniture to assembling new pieces, mounting shelves, drilling holes for curtain rods, and disposing of bulky items you don’t want to bring along. Forhad Handyman Services can take a load off your shoulders.
We offer affordable moving support, furniture assembly, and handyman services across Singapore. Whether you need help for a few hours on moving day or a full day of setup at your new place, get in touch for a free quote. We’ll make your move a little less stressful.