Although wintertime is generally a slower season for residential moves, many homeowners already start planning their move for the new year. Given the numerous factors involved in relocating, it’s never too early to begin planning. Early and thorough planning can help you avoid stress on moving day, whether you’re managing the move yourself or hiring a moving company. An extensive checklist helps you itemize tasks, prioritize them, and stay on track as your moving date approaches. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to guide you through your move:
2-3 Months Before Your Move
- Decide on using a moving company: Whether you want the movers to handle the entire move or just parts of it, book a company as early as possible.
- Compare moving companies: Get quotes from at least 3-4 companies. While one might offer a better price, ensure it provides all the services you need. Always ask for a written quote.
- Review paperwork: Understand the moving contract thoroughly, including what the mover is responsible for and what is expected of you.
- Price matching: Some movers may price-match their competitors, but ensure you’re comparing similar services.
- Consider storage needs: Determine if you need temporary or long-term storage. Many moving companies offer storage solutions.
- Extra insurance: Movers should offer coverage, but the extent and amount may vary.
- If moving with kids: Work with their current and new schools to handle necessary paperwork for a smooth transition.
- Notify property managers: Inform any necessary property managers or superintendents.
- Make a notification list: List people and institutions to notify about your move.
- Plan renovations or repairs: Try to complete any work at your new residence before moving in.
- Disconnect utilities: Arrange to disconnect utilities (hydro, telephone, internet, cable, gas/oil) by your move date.
1 Month Before Your Move
- Decide what to take: Determine what will go to your new home and what can be donated, recycled, or discarded. Consider a garage sale for items you no longer need.
- Get packing supplies: If packing yourself, arrange for boxes and supplies. Many moving companies sell packing materials even if they don’t do the packing.
- Start packing early: Begin with rarely used items and seasonal belongings.
- Return borrowed items: Return any items borrowed from friends or family.
- Notify the post office: Inform them of your new address and moving date for mail forwarding.
- Check apartment requirements: If moving into an apartment, find out if there are any moving day requirements or limitations. Book elevator and parking if needed.
- Handle home repairs: Take care of any necessary repairs at your current residence to secure your deposit.
- Change of address: Confirm the change of address with banks, the Ministry of Transportation, subscription services, schools, and the Canada Revenue Agency. Set up mail forwarding through Canada Post.
- Connect utilities: Arrange for utilities (hydro, telephone, internet, cable, gas/oil) to be connected at your new place by move-in date.
The Week of Your Move
- Confirm details: Verify the date and time of your move, as well as any deliveries, laborers, or service technicians.
- Backup data: Backup your computer and any important digital information.
- Defrost the freezer: Defrost it prior to moving day.
- Drain fluids: Drain equipment with fluids, such as hoses, lawnmowers, or propane tanks.
- Use up food: Try to consume as much existing food as possible. Donate non-perishable items.
- Pack essentials: Pack a travel kit with bathroom essentials and a change of clothes for the first night in your new home. Pack a box with immediate necessities to be loaded last or taken with you.
- Label boxes: Create a labeling system for your boxes, possibly color-coding by room, and label the contents. Avoid overpacking boxes but fill them to facilitate stacking.
- Inventory sheet: Make an inventory sheet for all your boxes, noting the contents.
- Secure parking/unloading spaces: Ensure parking or unloading spaces at both residences.
- Clean old residence: Clean your old place or arrange for cleaners.
- Prepare manuals: Gather appliance manuals and leave them in an easily accessible spot for the new residents.
On The Day of Your Move
- Check the weather: Check the weather forecast the night before and the morning of your move. Be prepared for any necessary adjustments.
- Be present: Be there for the entire move or at least for loading and unloading. If possible, schedule the move for a Friday to have the weekend to settle in.
- Communicate with movers: Walk around with the movers and point out items needing special attention. Clear communication is crucial.
- Stage boxes: Place boxes in easily accessible areas for movers.
- Final check: Check all rooms, closets, garages, attics, or storage spaces to ensure nothing is left behind. Cross-reference your inventory and the original quote.
- Return keys: Ensure you return or arrange to turn over any keys, parking fobs, or access cards.
- Keep valuables close: Keep documents, paperwork, money, and valuables close at all times.
- Arrive early: Get to your new place before the movers to handle any issues with building management and supervise the unloading process.
- Direct unloading: Guide the movers as they unload, ensuring boxes go to the correct rooms.
- Read the bill of lading: Understand the bill of lading before signing. Keep all papers until all claims are settled and charges paid.
After Your Move
- Check appliances: Ensure all large appliances and electronics are working properly.
- Keep paperwork: Retain all moving paperwork and receipts for potential tax claims.
- Learn local services: Find out about garbage pickup, recycling regulations, and waste management facilities from your city office.
- Unpack promptly: Aim to unpack and settle within two weeks.
- Make key copies: Make copies of new keys for those who need them and consider providing a set to a trusted friend or neighbor.
- Enjoy your home: Take time to enjoy your new home amidst the hustle of relocation.
This checklist is designed to help you plan and manage your move efficiently. Every move is unique, and some may require additional steps not listed here, especially for long-distance or international moves. Use these guidelines to keep your move organized and on track.
Planning a move can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Request a free consultation and estimate for your move today. Our experts will help you plan every detail, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition to your new home. Contact us now to get started!
