Moving to a new home or apartment can be a stressful and emotional time. However it doesn’t need to be. A little preparation can go a long way. Don’t wait to be overwhelmed with a flood of tasks that should have been started weeks before. Below is a step-by-step guide to help ease some of the stress associated with your big day.
8 weeks to go
Get estimates from several different Moving Companies. Be cautious and diligent when selecting your mover. Make sure they are reputable and that they are “Van Line” affiliated. Once you’ve selected your preferred mover book your move day well in advance.
Helpful Hint: summer months are the busiest time in the moving industry (April-September). Local move rates are significantly cheaper if you move mid-month.
Or: If this is a do-it-yourself move, call several truck rental companies to compare truck rental rates – book a truck. Ask the truck rental company which size truck is best suited to your moving requirements. To save time and money be sure all your household goods will fits in one truck load.
• If you’re moving to a new city, make a phone call to the local City Hall for information about schools, amenities, taxes, etc.
• Moving is good opportunity to de-clutter and purge unwanted items. Consider the floor plan of your new home and visualize your furniture arrangement. Ask yourself which furniture you want to keep, and which items and be discarded. Sometimes less is more.
If you have unwanted or lightly used clothing, books or furniture consider contacting your local Canadian Diabetes Association. They will pick up your goods FREE. (most cities)
• Properly dispose of anything you will be unable to move – i.e., food in the freezer; flammable painting and cleaning supplies. If you’re moving from a condo, re-familiarize yourself with the contents of your locker.
5 weeks to go
Talk to your mover about costs, insurance, loading delivery and claims procedures. Ask your accountant or Revenue Canada about tax-deductible moving expenses, and be sure to retain any pertinent records.
• Obtain copies of your family’s records from doctors, dentists, lawyers, accountants, etc.
• Transfer your children’s school records.
• Fill out a change of address form at the post office. Inform creditors, magazine subscriptions, etc., of your new address.
4 weeks to go
Arrange storage if needed.
• If your furniture, curtains or carpets need fixing, now is the time to have the work done.
• If you don’t want it, unload it at a garage sale: less to move, cash to gain.
3 weeks to go
Estimate how many boxes you’ll need. Check out our Exclusive Perfect Pack Moving Kits!
Prepare a list of the following packing supplies you may need:
• packing paper
• bubble wrap
• scissors
• utility knife
• packing tape
• labels and markers
• dolly
• Moving day may seem eons away, but it’s time to start packing those things you won’t use before the move.
Arrange for cancellation of utilities, phone and cable service, etc., and arrange for their set-up at your new home.
• If you’re taking a lengthy journey, make travel and hotel reservations.
• Have your address changed on your driver’s license, registration and insurance, and your Health Card. In major city centres, much of this can be easily done at automated kiosks found in designated shopping malls.
2 weeks to go
Arrange for the transfer of your bank accounts to your new branch. Cancel or re-direct any direct deposit or automatic payment arrangements.
• Talk to your veterinarian about the best way to move your pet.
• Cancel delivery services and newspaper subscriptions.
1 week to go
• Have medical prescriptions transferred to a pharmacy in your new neighbourhood.
• If necessary, book a baby-sitter for moving day.
• Return library books, videos and items long ago borrowed from neighbours.
2 days to go
Set aside a suitcase with the clothing and toiletries you’ll need along the way or upon arrival in your new home.
Pack a survival kit for your first day, including:
• scissors and utility knife
• coffee cups, paper plates and paper towels
• tea kettle, instant coffee, tea and soft drinks
• phone book, pens and paper
• garbage bags
• soap and towels
• Valuables and important papers should be carefully secured. Bring these with you instead of packing them in the truck.
• Defrost your refrigerator and freezer.
• Be prepared to pay the movers on delivery day.
Moving day
Pick up the truck early, if you’re moving yourself.
• Make a list of every item loaded onto the truck.
• Provide the mover with a phone number through which you can be reached. Stick around to answer questions and direct the mover as needed.
• Read the bill of lading before signing. Put aside in a safe place until the transaction is seen through to the very end, including any settling of claims.
• Ensure water and appliances are turned off in your old house.
• Do a final inspection of your old basement, attic and garage.
• Lock all doors and windows.
Upon arrival
As the truck is unloaded, check off each item on your list. Examine furniture for damage and settle your bill.
• If you have children underfoot, open a box containing their toys and books.
• Ensure utilities are in working order.
• Kick up your feet, grab cold beverage, and enjoy your new home.