Moving home is always a time of mixed feelings. Excitement about the next phase of your life. Nostalgia about times gone by in your previous home. Anxiety that everything doesn’t go to plan on moving day. But for people with disabilities, the daunting aspects of moving are likely to be heightened.
Moving home presents unique challenges for people with disabilities.
In South Africa, where recent statistics show over 3.3 million individuals live with disabilities, planning a successful move requires careful consideration and the right support.
Here's how to ensure your relocation is smooth, safe, and stress-free—whether you are moving across the city, the province, or the country.
The key to a successful move lies in thorough preparation. Consider these essential factors when planning your relocation:
Choose moving dates and times that allow for a relaxed pace—Avoid rush hours or busy holiday periods (if you can) and plan to arrive at your new home before sunset.
Create a detailed timeline that includes regular rest breaks, especially for long-distance moves. Take into account traffic time, especially in major cities.
Prepare a list of emergency contacts and keep it within reach.
Arrange for necessary medical support or equipment transfers before moving day, so everything is ready when you arrive.
When searching for a new home, consider these important aspects:
A location close to medical facilities and support services if you need these.
Proximity to public transport routes.
Ground-floor access or a reliable lift service with backup power during loadshedding.
Wide doorways and corridors for mobility aids.
Wheelchair-friendly access to main entranceways.
Ability to easily modify internal structure to support your specific requirements.
Backup power during loadshedding for lighting, medical equipment, security and electronic access.
In South Africa, landlords cannot discriminate against tenants based on disability. Key points to remember:
You have the right to request reasonable accommodations.
Keep all communication with landlords in writing.
Include any agreed-upon modifications in your rental agreement.
Consider consulting a disability rights advocate if needed.
Public transport options vary across South African cities.
For example, in Cape Town, the MyCiti Dial-a-Ride service provides kerb-to-kerb transport for people with disabilities.
When planning your move:
Research local transport options in your new area.
Book specialised transport services well in advance.
Working with the right moving company is crucial. Look for movers who:
Have experience handling specialised equipment like wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Offer door-to-door moving services that cater to specific needs, including packing and unpacking services.
Provide clear documentation of their insurance coverage.
Ability to accommodate your specific timing or access requirements.
While extensive home modifications might come later, consider these immediate priorities:
Installing temporary ramps if needed.
Ensuring bathroom accessibility.
Adjusting furniture layout for easy navigation.
Setting up any necessary medical equipment.
A well-organised move makes settling in easier:
Label boxes clearly and create a detailed inventory.
Pack a box with essential items and keep it within reach.
Plan your furniture layout in advance
Keep important documents and medication close at hand.
Don't hesitate to seek assistance. South Africa offers various support services:
Contact local disability support organisations.
Consider hiring a disability access consultant.
Use online platforms to find verified moving companies
Ask family and friends for help with organisation and planning
A good place to start your research is Disability Info South Africa—an accessible housing portal.
Moving with a disability requires extra planning. With the right support and resources, you can make your transition to a new home successful and hassle-free. Take your time planning your move, communicate your needs clearly, and work with professionals who understand your specific requirements.
Consider using an online platform, like Wise Move that connects you with pre-vetted moving companies and has experience in disability-friendly moves. This can save you time and ensure you receive the specialised level of service you need at competitive rates.
We built Wise Move to make a quick and easy connection between customers and moving professionals – our platform is the stepping stone to make removals easier and more streamlined than ever before, and it all starts with one click. We’re dedicated to connecting customers with the best, most efficient and most cost-effective movers in South Africa, both at a local and at a national level.
![How Many Moving Boxes Do You Need [Quick Guide]](https://cdn.wisemove.co.za/image/blog/f402bbe3e47e09aa41a6d8370888b926.jpeg "How Many Moving Boxes Do You Need [Quick Guide]")
It's free and easy to create a request on Wise Move.
Describe, add photos and the dimensions of your shipment in your listing — anything that you think will make a difference, will make a difference.
Our platform will reach out to moving companies and movers relevant to your delivery specification in your area.
Movers may ask you a few more details about your delivery before giving you a quote.
Compare prices and get to know movers before accepting their quote by reading previous customer reviews on our platform.
Pick your preferred mover and arrange collection and delivery.
Prepare your package for collection or if you are moving home, get ready for moving day.
Meet and greet your chosen movers on your collection day.
Sit back and relax while your movers takes care of your booking.
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