This is a general timeline for moving. Of course if you have less time than eight weeks, you will have to condense things down to a shorter period in order to get it all done!
Eight weeks before move
- Research professional movers and schedule the strongest candidates to meet at your home to survey the belongings you’re moving.
- Get a binding estimate from movers while they’re at your house. If you’re thinking of having movers do your packing as well get a quote for this work, too.
- Book your mover and move date as early as possible (and get a written confirmation).
- If you’re enlisting friends to help you move instead, research truck rental companies and rates.
- Start a folder for all your move related documentation, contact numbers, receipts, etc.
- Begin cleaning out closets, the attic, the basement, etc. and separate items you want to get rid of before the move.
- Compile a list of anyone who will need to be notified of your move (i.e. creditors, professional contacts, subscriptions, etc.).
- Schedule other contractors you may need to do work at your new home prior to move-in (painters, electricians, carpenters, flooring specialists, etc.).
Six weeks before move
- Contact your accountant or the Canada Revenue Agency to determine which moving expenses you may be able to deduct and what documentation you may need.
- Call your insurance company to choose (or transfer) coverage for your new home.
- Arrange to transfer medical records and children’s school records to your new location.
Four weeks before move
- Get boxes and moving supplies.
- Start packing! Label boxes with the destination room in your new house.
- Separate valuable items and legal documents that you want to transport yourself.
- For items you don’t want: have a yard sale, donate to charity or bring to the landfill.
- Dispose of any household chemicals properly.
- Submit a change of address to your post office and arrange to have your mail forwarded.
- Contact utility, phone, cable, gas, water, electric, banks, newspapers, etc. for service disconnect/connect at your existing and new homes.
Two weeks before move
- Call the movers to confirm your reservation details and contact numbers.
- If renting a moving truck, confirm the pickup date and time.
- Arrange for any child and pet care needed on moving day.
- Book other services you may need before moving, such as house cleaning, plumbing, carpentry, yard work, etc.
Three days before move
- Clean your stove, defrost your refrigerator and freezer, and do a final house cleaning.
- Make arrangements to pay your mover (it’s always good to have some cash on hand).
- If you do not get the keys to your new home at closing, schedule a time to get them from your real estate agent.
- Finish packing.
One day before move
- Do a final walk around your existing property, inside and out, to make sure everything is packed and ready to go.
- Pack a separate bag for easy access to essentials such as a toothbrush, soap, pajamas, towel, medications, change of clothes, etc.
Moving day
- Take final meter readings for gas, water, electric, etc. at your existing home (take a photo to document readings).
- Confirm that all utilities, including phone, cable, internet, will be disconnected effective today.
- Be at the new house when the movers arrive.
- Make note of any damage that may have been caused by movers and let them know.
- Take meter readings at the new property and document them.
Ask me or your moving company if you have any questions on preparing for a smooth, stress-free move.
