CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR NEW HOME!
While moving will always be stressful, there is a way to make it a little less so by organizing your efforts ahead of time. Below is a moving checklist to help with your endeavor:
IMMEDIATELY AFTER YOUR OFFER IS ACCEPTED:
Book your moving company or truck rental company to avoid last-minute headaches
Contact your doctor, vet, insurance agent and/or your child's school to find out what you have to do to transfer your records (or coverage) to a new location.
If you're moving into a condo, find out what's involved in booking the elevator and book it as soon as possible.
2 MONTHS BEFORE MOVING DAY
Ensure a fresh start by weeding through the clutter. Use Charity
Village to find a charity near you taking donations, or sell
your items on Facebook.
Marketplace or Kijiji.ca Start gathering moving supplies (boxes, packing tape, newspaper, etc.).
Change your mailing address using Canada Post's online 'Smart Moves' program. For in
province, it costs $70 to re-direct your mail for 12 months.
1 MONTH BEFORE MOVING DAY
Get packing! Start with the items you don't use on a regular basis. Make sure boxes are clearly marked with the new room destination as well as a list of the contents. Jot down items of significant value, for moving insurance purposes.
If you opted not to use Canada Post's Smart Moves program, now is the time to start notifying everyone about your upcoming address change (see address change breakdown for list of who to notify).
2 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING DAY
Check in with your moving/truck rental company.
Cancel or transfer your newspaper service.
Transfer your hydro/utilities your cable and phone accounts. Make sure you cancel the services the day after you move out, and activate the hydro at your new residence the day before you move in.
1 WEEK BEFORE MOVING DAY
At this point, most of your packing should be completed - everything remaining should be items you're going to use this week. Leave a few empty boxes aside for these items, as well as a bag for those things you plan to carry with you.
A FEW DAYS BEFORE MOVING
Prepare a detailed map and directions for your movers including a cell phone number you can be reached at on moving day.
Pack a travel bag with the items your family may need on moving day (toothbrushes, clothes, medications, hair brushes, soap, toilet paper, paper plates and cups, etc.).
If you are moving yourself, start dismantling large furniture.
Empty, defrost and clean your refrigerator.
MOVING DAY
Drop off your keys and pick up your new keys.
Make note of all utility readings (new and old home).
Supervise movers as they load and unload the truck (or, if you're moving yourself, remember to lift with your legs-not your back!)
Designate someone to direct the movers & determine which boxes go in which rooms.
Check for damaged items before the movers leave. Also make sure all appliances are in working order.
ADDRESS CHANGE BREAKDOWN
Utilities: electricity, gas, water, telephone, cable, fuel, appliance services
People/Organizations: friends, relatives, religious groups, business associates, hair salon
Insurance/Finances: life/accident/personal property insurance provider, bank, credit card company, retail charge cards.
Publications: newspapers, magazines.
Business Accounts: dry cleaner, drug store.
Government Offices: health, vehicle registration, drivers license, income tax.
Professional Services: doctor, dentist, lawyer, accountant.