Moving Guide

Be Prepared to Move

Use our guide to stay on track.

Moving Guide

You should start preparing for your move at least two months before you take possession of your new home. Packing and moving can be an extremely overwhelming process, which is exactly why we have formulated an in-depth and comprehensive moving guide. Find below a handy checklist that can help you streamline your packing and moving preparations.

8 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Make a “move file” where you can store receipts, phone numbers, estimates, and any other information or documentation that you might have to refer to quickly. Store this file in a place where it won’t mistakenly be packed.
If you are moving to a new municipality, research any special laws and/or requirements that apply to you in regards to home-based businesses, etc.
Gather estimates from reputable moving companies
Think about furniture placement using the floor plan of your new home

7 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

If you are changing your family doctor or dentist, obtain medical and dental records, x-rays, and prescription histories
If you are changing your children’s schools or daycare facilities, arrange for records to be transferred

6 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Start using up freezer food and cleaning items that shouldn’t be moved, such as bleach and aerosol cleaners
Inform your home and vehicle insurance company that you are moving
Ensure you have full coverage throughout your move
Create a list of valuable or items that will be difficult to replace
Have antiques, artwork, and other valuables appraised and plan to move these items yourself
Make any necessary storage arrangements

5 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Locate hospitals, police stations, veterinarians and fire stations near your home
List the things you do not want to move
Sell, give away, or donate these items
Prepare a folder of information for the new occupant of the house you’re leaving

4 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Choose a moving company or arrange to rent a truck
Gather boxes and packing materials
Make necessary travel arrangements
Cancel or transfer banks and memberships in clubs, organizations, and churches
Make an inventory of your belongings for insurance purposes
Record serial numbers of electronics
Arrange pet transportation

3 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Return all library books
Pick up all dry cleaning or items in repair shops
Pack items you seldom use
Discard of flammables, corrosives, and poisons
Arrange for child care and pet care on moving day

2 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Arrange for utilities to be switched from your current home to your new one
This includes hydro, water, waste disposal, newspaper delivery, magazine subscriptions, telephone, cable, and Internet providers
Arrange for help from friends and family on moving day
Organize medication you will need stocked and readily available

1 WEEK BEFORE MOVING

File important papers, moving documents, and phone numbers
Fill out and mail change of address forms, including the Ministry of Transportation, Ministry of Health, bank/credit union, credit card companies, physicians, insurance, friends and family, subscriptions, organizations, sports teams, post office, hydro, gas, and Municipal Tax Department
Arrange for a temporary mailbox with your post office
Pack
Label boxes that contain necessities and label them to open first
Drain gas/oil from lawn mower, gas grills, heaters, and other motors
Dismantle and prepare beds and other large furniture for moving

1 DAY BEFORE MOVING

Empty, defrost, and clean your fridge
Clean all rooms as best you can
Drain water hoses
Have payment ready for the movers

MOVING DAY

Once your house is empty, check each room vigorously to ensure nothing is left behind
Check all the rooms again
Carry important documents, jewelry, and currency with you
Ensure the movers have your new address and cellphone number
Get the drivers number as well
Check your belongings and make note of any damages
Keep pets as happy as possible, as this can be a very stressful time for them