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
AFTER MOVING INTO YOUR NEW HOME
- Revise your will and other legal documents with your new address
- Keep your move file handy for reference
- Enjoy your new home!