Anyone who’s packed a single box knows that moving house comes with a long list of tasks, and getting your utilities and internet sorted often slips to the bottom. The problem is that forgetting to transfer your electricity, gas, and broadband can lead to extra fees, delays, and even days without power at your new place. This guide pulls together everything you need to know about using Origin Energy’s tools to handle the move, what it really costs, and how to avoid the common mistakes that catch most people out.

4 related posts

Average cost to move a house in Ireland (2025): €8,000–€15,000 (local move, 3-bed home) ·
Origin Energy customers in Australia: Over 4.2 million electricity and gas accounts ·
Time needed to transfer broadband to a new address: Typically 5–14 days ·
Moving mistakes that cause financial loss: 1 in 3 movers report hidden fees above initial quote

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
2What’s unclear
  • Exact pricing for Origin’s move-in service isn’t publicly listed without logging into an account
  • Whether AGL or Origin is cheaper overall depends on specific plans and region
3Timeline signal
4What’s next
  • Use Origin’s My Account to submit a move request online
  • Check broadband coverage at new address before transfer

Five key facts in one table to help you plan your move.

Factor Key detail
Cheapest way to move DIY with rented truck saves 40–60%
Origin move house online Via My Account in under 5 minutes
Broadband transfer timeframe 5–14 days
Red flags with movers Cash-only deposits, no contract, no insurance
Average cost 3-bed in Ireland €8,000–€15,000

How much does it cost to move a house in Ireland?

Factors affecting moving costs in Ireland

  • Distance between old and new home — local moves (under 50 km) are cheaper than regional or cross-country.
  • Volume of belongings — a two-bedroom flat costs less than a four-bed house.
  • Services included: packing, disassembly, reassembly, and insurance all add to the quote (Sorensen Moving and Storage (moving industry expert)).
  • Seasonal demand — summer and month-end are peak; winter and mid-month dates are cheaper.

Average moving costs for a 3-bedroom house

For a standard three-bed semi-detached in Ireland, a local move (within 50 km) typically ranges from €8,000 to €15,000. This includes a moving crew, truck, and basic insurance. Additional packing materials and storage can add another €1,000–€3,000.

The implication: get at least three written quotes and compare exactly what each includes. A cheap quote often excludes packing or insurance.

Can you move your broadband to another house?

How to transfer your internet service

Most providers in Ireland and Australia allow you to transfer your existing broadband plan to a new address, as long as the new place is within the service coverage area. The process usually involves contacting your ISP at least two weeks before moving and providing the new address and preferred start date. Origin Energy, for example, includes internet as one of the services you can move through its online portal (Origin Energy (provider’s official moving page)).

If the new address isn’t covered by your current plan, you may need to cancel and sign up with a different provider. Check coverage maps before you move.

Broadband transfer timeframes and fees

The catch: waiting until moving week to start the process almost guarantees at least a few days without internet. Start two weeks out to stay connected.

What are red flags with movers?

Warning signs to watch for

  • Refusal to provide a written contract or on-site estimate.
  • Demand for a large cash deposit (more than 25% of the quote) before moving day.
  • No proof of insurance or a license number that doesn’t match official records.
  • Reviews that mention surprise charges or damaged goods not covered.

Always verify a mover’s credentials through the Australian Furniture Removers Association or the Irish Registration of Removals and Storage Providers.

How to avoid moving scams

Get at least three quotes in writing. Pay by credit card for added protection. Read Google reviews with caution — look for patterns, not just star ratings. A legitimate mover will schedule a walkthrough before giving a binding quote (Airtasker US (peer-to-peer service marketplace)).

Why this matters: the cheapest quote isn’t the best deal if the mover adds fees on moving day. Trust your instincts and walk away from any pressure to sign immediately.

What is the cheapest way to move a house?

DIY moving vs. professional movers

Renting a truck and handling packing, loading, and driving yourself can save 40–60% of the total cost compared to a full-service move. However, this option requires time, physical effort, and a vehicle license for the truck size. Professionals bring speed, insurance, and equipment for heavy items.

Cost-saving strategies for movers

  • Declutter before packing — sell or donate items you no longer need. Less volume means lower cost.
  • Move during off-peak periods: winter (June–August in Australia, November–February in Ireland) and mid-month. Prices can be 20–30% lower.
  • Get comparison quotes from at least three moving companies (Moving.com (US relocation resource)).
  • Pack yourself using free boxes from local stores.

The trade-off: a DIY move is cheapest but carries the risk of injury, damage, or delays. Professional movers cost more but include insurance and a guaranteed timeline.

What are the common moving mistakes?

Packing mistakes

  • Not decluttering first — you pay to move things you’ll never use.
  • Packing boxes too heavy or too light — aim for 20 kg maximum per box.
  • Forgetting to label boxes clearly — “kitchen” isn’t enough; specify “kitchen – cutlery, dishes, small appliances” (EcoFlow (home energy retailer guide)).
  • No “essentials box” for the first night (toiletries, chargers, basic tools).

Planning and timing errors

  • Failing to notify service providers 2–4 weeks ahead can lead to delays and extra fees. Origin Energy recommends notifying them as soon as you know your move date (EcoFlow (home energy retailer guide)).
  • Not confirming new utility connections in advance — schedule disconnection for one day after move-out and activation for the day before move-in (Moving.com (US relocation resource)).
  • Overlooking meter readings — take photos on moving day to avoid disputes on final bills.

The pattern: most moving stress comes from lack of a central timeline. Create one that includes both utility transfers and mover booking to keep everything aligned.

How do I transfer my internet to a new house?

Steps to move your internet service

  1. Check if your current provider covers the new address.
  2. Contact your ISP at least two weeks before moving day. Provide new address and preferred activation date.
  3. Verify whether existing equipment (modem, router) can be reused or if a new one is needed.
  4. Arrange for activation to start the day before move-in so you have internet on arrival.
  5. On moving day, take meter readings and photos for your final bill.

When to contact your ISP

The golden rule: contact them as soon as you have a confirmed moving date. Many providers, including Origin Energy, allow you to book the transfer online in under five minutes via My Account (Origin Energy (provider’s official moving page)). If you wait until moving week, you risk a gap of several days without service.

How do I connect electricity to a new house with Origin?

Origin Energy move in steps

  1. Log in to My Account or the Origin app.
  2. Select “Moving” and enter your moving dates, old and new addresses.
  3. For existing customers, the process takes minutes. New customers need identification and a valid email.
  4. Origin coordinates with the local distributor to connect electricity and gas. Connection usually takes 1–3 business days.
  5. If you’re moving to a rental property, check if the property already has power connected. If not, you may need to request a new connection.

Setting up electricity and gas when moving home

Origin’s guidance covers electricity, natural gas, and internet (Origin Energy (provider’s official moving page)). For gas, some premises require an in-person meter reading before connection. Water is typically handled by the local utility and may need separate arrangement. Always confirm each service type.

Why this matters: a last-minute electricity request can leave you without power for days. Giving Origin at least one to two weeks’ notice reduces that risk significantly (EcoFlow (home energy retailer guide)).

Upsides

  • Moving with Origin online is fast and integrated for electricity, gas, and internet.
  • DIY moving saves 40–60% compared to full-service movers.
  • Early planning (4 weeks ahead) avoids most fees and service gaps.

Downsides

  • Exact pricing not transparent without an Origin account.
  • Broadband transfer can take 5–14 days, risking downtime.
  • Hidden fees from movers and utility companies are common.

Steps to move with Origin Energy (complete timeline)

  1. 4 weeks before move: Declutter, collect Moving.com (US relocation resource) quotes from at least three removalists.
  2. 2 weeks before move: Log into My Account or the Origin app and submit your moving request. Provide move dates and new address. Also contact your internet provider.
  3. 1 week before move: Confirm booking with movers. Pack non-essentials. Label boxes clearly. Set up an “essentials box” for moving day.
  4. Move day: Supervise the moving team. Take final meter readings and photos. Ensure utilities are disconnected at old address and connected at new.
  5. After move: Set up Origin account at new address if not already done. Test internet and gas. Review final bills for any discrepancies.

Moving timeline at a glance

When Action
4 weeks before Declutter, collect quotes from movers
2 weeks before Notify Origin Energy and internet provider of move date
1 week before Confirm moving details, pack non-essentials
Move day Supervise movers, ensure utilities are disconnected/connected
After move Set up origin account at new address, test internet, check for final bills

What we know for sure

  • Origin Energy provides an online move service via My Account and the Origin app.
  • Most broadband providers require a transfer request 2 weeks before moving.
  • Moving costs in Ireland vary widely by distance and service type.

What’s still unclear

  • Exact pricing for Origin’s move-in service is not publicly listed without an account.
  • Whether AGL or Origin is cheaper overall depends on specific plan and region.

“We recommend customers get in touch with us as soon as they know their moving date — we can arrange electricity, gas, and internet connections all in one go.”

— Origin Energy (official moving guide, accessed 2025)

“The biggest mistake people make is not labeling boxes and not confirming utility connections in advance. That’s how you end up with extra costs and a lot of stress on the day.”

— HomeOwners Alliance (UK consumer advice body)

For Australian households using Origin Energy, the choice is clear: start the moving process online through My Account at least two weeks before the move, confirm broadband coverage early, and get three mover quotes to avoid hidden fees. The alternative — scrambling on moving day — guarantees unnecessary costs and a day without power or internet.

Additional sources

bobcatmovers.com

When planning a move, it’s worth reviewing Origin Energy pricing plans to ensure you’re on the best deal for your new home.

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Frequently asked questions

What does Origin Energy charge for moving house?

Origin doesn’t publish a standard fee for moving house. Charges depend on your plan, the new address, and whether you need a new connection or a simple transfer. You’ll see the costs after logging into My Account when you start the move process.

Can I keep my existing internet plan when I move?

Most providers allow you to keep the same plan as long as the new address is within the coverage area. If the address is outside the network, you may need to cancel and sign up with a different provider, which could incur early termination fees.

How long does it take to connect electricity at a new house with Origin?

Connection usually takes 1–3 business days after your request is submitted. To avoid delays, submit the request at least two weeks before your move date.

What should I do if I cannot move my broadband to my new address?

Request a cancellation of your current plan (check for early termination fees) and start a new service with a provider that covers your new postcode. Aim to order the new service 2–4 weeks ahead to avoid a gap.

What items should I bring to a new house for good luck?

While not specific to Origin, many cultures recommend bringing bread, salt, or a broom first. However, for practical moving purposes, bring your “essentials box” with toiletries, chargers, basic tools, and important documents.

How do I compare AGL and Origin energy plans for a move?

Both providers have online comparison tools. Enter your new address and estimated usage to see rates. Also check for sign-up bonuses, exit fees, and renewable energy options. The cheapest plan depends on your region and consumption.

What is an embedded network and how does it affect moving?

An embedded network is a private energy network within a building (like an apartment complex) where you must buy power from the building’s designated retailer. If your new home is in an embedded network, you may not be able to choose Origin as your provider. Check with the real estate agent before signing a lease.