Moving checklist

Here’s Your 5-Step Moving Checklist!

Moving can be both the most exciting and busiest/stressful time of your life all at once. But where do you start with your moving plan? How do you ensure you don’t forget something important? We’ve created this handy moving to-do list to help make it easier for you to switch addresses.

Oh, and if you’re moving with kids, we’ll help make that easier too!

Step 1: Early Preparation

  1. Thoroughly clean your home. Use this opportunity to throw away/sell/donate anything you no longer need and pack items that you rarely use. Packing daily is key. 
  2. Make a list of large appliances and furniture you’ll be moving to decide on a moving truck size or get a proper estimate from movers. This will also give you a better idea of the scope of your move. 
  3. Identify any items that need special care such as paintings and fine art, bulky items and solid wood pieces, glass or fragile cabinets, pool tables and pianos. You’ll need to gather adequate wrapping for these and inform your mover.
  4. If possible, take measurements of the dimensions at your new address. This will help you plan your furniture placement.
  5. Inform your boss in advance that you’ll need the day off to move.
  6. Find someone to take care of your pets on moving day. It’s a stressful experience for them!

Step 2: Secure Movers or Truck

Book your movers or truck in advance. When choosing a mover, keep the following top of mind:

  1. Check out Google and Facebook reviews, and ask friends for referrals. Make sure the mover is a pro.
  2. Compare at least three prices. You may be surprised by the difference from one company to another.
  3. Make sure the estimate is comprehensive and realistic considering what you need to move. Some movers may quote a cheap price and charge extra on the moving date. Ask how many movers will assist you.
  4. Validate that moving insurance is included and the moving company guarantees any items that may be damaged during the move.
  5. Have a backup plan. What happens if the mover doesn’t show up or can’t complete the job the same day? Make sure you have someone to call.

Step 3: Packing Supplies

Some moving companies also supply packing items, so check with them before securing anything listed below: 

  1. Order boxes online or get them used from stores. You can also ask friends for extra boxes after they move
  2. Buy tape, tape guns, paper, bubble wrap and markers for your boxes, as well as special packaging for extra fragile items. 
  3. Moving straps are essential if you plan on moving appliances with friends. Don’t break your back!
  4. Get a dolly or rolling platform to move heavy items.
  5. Cleaning products, broom, mop and garbage bags are essential.
  6. Get everything you need for painting, if necessary.

Step 4: Packing & Preparing Your Home

Set aside time to make sure you don’t have to pack in a hurry: 

  1. Clean and take pictures of your stuff to sell. You can do this in minutes with Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji/Craigslist apps.
  2. Mark your boxes. Being concise here can save you a lot of hassle. 
  3. Take photos or videos of every complex electronic connection, such as your stereo, TV and computer. Do the same for your washing machine, dishwasher and any appliances you plan to move. This will prevent headaches and uncertainties during reconnection.
  4. It’s easy to misplace documents such as passports, insurance coverage, etc when moving. Place everything at risk in the same box and scan important documents if possible.
  5. Pack a bag containing some clothes and toiletries so that they’re easily accessible.
  6. Clean the house for the new occupants.
  7. Empty your fridge and disconnect it at least 24 hours before moving.

Step 5: Moving Home Services & Making Address Changes

Moving is a great time to re-evaluate your needs. You may be surprised at how much you can save.

  1. Compare internet, WiFi and TV offers, and book installation in advance.
  2. Cancel your old accounts if switching providers. Schedule a time to return the TV box if rented.
  3. Inform your utility providers of your move.
  4. Get a few quotes for home insurance. You may want to bundle it with your car insurance if you aren’t already doing so.
  5. Compare prices for security systems and book an installation.
  6. Cancel your gym membership or find a local branch.
  7. Inform any worker on your property, such as the landscaper, pool cleaner, etc.
  8. Ask your pharmacist to send your prescriptions to your new local branch.
  9. Update your address with your magazine and subscription box providers.
  10. Update your address with your rewards programs.
  11. Inform your kid’s school of your move.
  12. Tell your dentist, doctor and veterinarian.
  13. Inform your employer or the HR department at work. They’ll adjust it on your file and work insurance. Do the same with your union rep.
  14. Inform your bank, credit cards and investment brokers.
  15. Change your address on your driver’s licence, health insurance program, etc.
  16. Worried you’re still forgetting something? Forward your mail with Canada Post.

Bonus: Moving Day

  1. Start early. It’s best to allow time for unplanned events.
  2. Leave the keys as planned.
  3. Tip the movers.

 

Find an Inspector near you: https://abuyerschoice.com/locations