Moving Guides: Moving Interstate

If you're moving interstate there are some additional considerations that you should be aware of when preparing for your big move. This guide points out some of the differences between moving interstate, when compared to local moves.

Quarantine regulations don't just apply when you go on an overseas trip. Different states also have varying rules about moving goods both into, and out of, their state. Generally, these rules will pertain to moving items like plants/plant materials, items contaminated with soil, animals, fruit and vegetables. While most rules restrict the importation of such items, some rules restrict the exportation of items from the state your moving from.

It is important that you make yourself aware of what quarantine restrictions apply for your move. Check with the appropriate regulatory bodies in both the state your moving from, and moving to. Heavy penalties may apply for breaking quarantine regulations and your removalist will not be liable. Those penalties will be passed onto you.

Moving interstate generally means moving greater distances. This fact alone brings it's own inherent list of considerations:

• Longer, generally bumpier trips put your goods at greater risk of damage. It's especially important that you pack your goods appropriately. Also, bearing the 'increased susceptibility to damage in transit' in mind, do you have enough coverage should something break or get lost?
• Estimated transit times are generally wider and more open to change when moving interstate. Floods, break-downs, road closures, log book restrictions for interstate drivers, rail delays, and a host of other potential hold-ups are more likely when moving interstate. You should be aware of this and be prepared for any delay. Don't expect it, but be prepared.
• Greater distances generally mean bigger trucks, and a higher likelihood that your goods will travel alongside other people's. Removalists are used to packing their trucks in such a manner, but it pays to make sure your goods are all labelled properly to decrease the chances of any mix-ups. At minimum, you should clearly label all goods with your name, pickup suburb, delivery address and, if available, a job number issued to you by your removalist. It also pays to check everything off of your inventory as it comes off the truck at delivery.
• When moving interstate, it's much more important that you don't pack important documents (like your airline tickets). It may be impossible to recover them once in transit! Always keep them with you and separate from the goods to be moved.

How do you plan on getting your car, motorbike, boats and other vehicles to the delivery destination? It can be more cost effective to have them transported by a specialist carrier than driving or towing them across yourself.

If you're planning on using a specialist carrier some rules may apply:

• Many carriers will refuse to move a vehicle if it contains any personal effects whatsoever – so don't plan on filling your vehicle up with luggage for the journey.
• Check the insurance cover. Is it provided in the quote? If so, how much cover is included? Is it enough? How much does additional cover cost?
• Is your vehicle up to scratch? Individual carriers have different policies about moving cars with damage, that don't run, or have non-standard modifications. Be sure to check before booking.
• How much fuel should be left in your vehicle? Be sure to ask.
• Does your vehicle have any leaks? Double check. In general, such cars won't be moved by your carrier.

However you plan on transporting your vehicles, make sure to check with the local regulatory bodies to find out if and when your registration will need to be transferred to your new state.



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