Moving: what you need to know!
We know moving can be exciting and stressful and we want to make sure you don’t forget to do anything in the process. Use this checklist below and stay confident that you’ll cover all you’ll need to do before and during your move:
Overview
Whether your last move was across the country or across the street, it probably ended with two words: “Never again!” But you don’t always have the luxury of staying in the same place forever. Sooner or later, you’re bound to find yourself surrounded by cardboard boxes and packing tape―again.
To make your moving process as smooth as possible, use this comprehensive moving to-do list. It not only outlines the tasks that need to be completed but also provides a timeline for when to tackle each one, helping you manage the process and reduce stress. Print out the list, check off each item week by week, and you might find that the two words you use to describe your next move are simply “I’m home.”
What we need to think about when moving.
When planning a move, several key factors should be considered to ensure a smooth transition:
Timing and Scheduling: Choose the right time for your move, considering factors like lease end dates, work schedules, and peak moving seasons. Create a timeline to organize tasks leading up to moving day.
Budgeting: Estimate the costs involved in your move, including moving company fees, packing supplies, utility transfers, and any potential new deposits. Plan and budget accordingly to avoid unexpected expenses.
Decluttering: Sort through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. This will reduce the volume of items to be moved and help you start fresh in your new home.
Packing: Gather packing materials such as boxes, bubble wrap, and tape. Pack items systematically, labeling boxes by room and contents to make unpacking easier.
Utilities and Services: Arrange for the disconnection of utilities and services at your current home and set up new services at your new address. This includes electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable.
Change of Address: Update your address with the post office, banks, insurance companies, and other important contacts to ensure that your mail and services are redirected to your new location.
Moving Company or DIY: Decide whether to hire a professional moving company or handle the move yourself. If hiring movers, research and book them in advance to secure availability and competitive rates.
Health and Safety: Keep important documents, medications, and valuable items with you during the move. Ensure that your new home is clean and safe before moving in.
New Home Preparation: Visit your new home beforehand, if possible, to take measurements, plan furniture placement, and address any immediate repairs or cleaning needs.
Communications and Notifications: Inform friends, family, and relevant institutions about your move. Update your contact information to ensure you stay connected.
By considering these factors, you can help ensure that your move is well-organized and less stressful.
What we forget when moving.
When moving, it’s easy to overlook certain details amidst the chaos. Here are some commonly forgotten aspects to keep in mind:
Update Insurance Policies: Ensure your homeowners, renters, or auto insurance policies are updated with your new address. This also includes any specialized insurance for valuable items.
Transfer Medical Records: Notify your healthcare providers of your move and transfer medical records to new providers or locations if necessary.
Notify Schools and Childcare: Inform your children’s schools and childcare providers about the move to transfer records and arrange for any necessary adjustments.
Handle Subscriptions and Deliveries: Update your address for magazine subscriptions, meal deliveries, and any other regular deliveries or services.
Check for Hidden Items: Don’t forget to look in less obvious places for items like basement or attic storage, garage shelves, or garden tools.
Address Pet Needs: Ensure your pets are ready for the move by updating their microchip information, arranging for their travel, and preparing a moving day kit with their essentials.
Take Inventory: Keep a detailed inventory of your belongings, especially valuable items, to ensure nothing is lost or damaged during the move.
Utility Meter Readings: Take final meter readings for utilities like electricity, gas, and water at your old home to ensure you’re only billed for what you used.
Check for Forgotten Keys: Collect all keys, garage door openers, and security codes for your old home and provide them to the new occupants if applicable.
Settle In Utilities: Make sure all necessary utilities (like internet and cable) are set up and working in your new home before moving day.
Address Legal Documents: Update your address on important legal documents like your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and voter registration.
Notify Service Providers: Inform service providers, such as your bank or credit card companies, of your address change to avoid any disruptions in service.
By keeping these often-overlooked details in mind, you can help ensure a smoother transition and avoid potential issues during and after your move.
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Moving what a nightmary or is it?
Moving can be a challenging process, and it’s easy to forget important details amidst the chaos. With our comprehensive information and checklists, we’ll help identify your needs and recommend useful resources. Below, you’ll find links and additional information to assist you with this next step.
To access resources specific to your area, hover over your province on the map below and click ‘See Resources’ to be directed to relevant information for your region.
British Columbia
Alberta
Saskatchewan
Manitoba
Ontario
Quebec
Newfoundland Labrador
Meritimes
Yukon
Nunavut
Northwest Territories
British Columbia
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Alberta
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Saskatchewan
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Manitoba
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Ontario
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Quebec
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Newfoundland and Labrador
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Meritimes
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Yukon
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Northwest Territories
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