Moving Checklist

The following checklist will help you be better prepared when making your next move and ensure a smother transition.  Depending on your situation, you may want to add or subtract some items as necessary.

8 WEEKS BEFORE

• Call moving companies for estimates.
• Dispose unnecessary possessions and/or donate to charity.
• Start compiling an inventory of your possessions.
• Get room dimensions of your new home to help you decide which furnishings you want to keep and which rooms they will go in.
• Start a file of moving-related papers and receipts.
• Locate schools, healthcare professionals and hospitals in your new location.
• Arrange to transfer your children’s school records, family medical records and veterinary records.
• Discuss with your real estate agent when you would like to re-visit your new home prior to closing (if applicable).

6 WEEKS BEFORE

• Secure off site storage if needed.
• Choose a mover and sign contract.
• Contact your homeowner’s insurance agent about coverage for moving
• Contact insurance companies (auto, household, medical, life) to arrange new coverage.

4 WEEKS BEFORE

• Create a file of important papers, such as auto license, registration documents and title, any medical, dental and school records, birth certificates, wills, deeds, and other important documents.
• Notify the following of your change of address: Contact Canada Post and arrange to have your mail forwarded (preferably for 1 year) to ensure you don’t miss any important mail
• Banks
• Credit cards
• Government agencies (driver’s license, plates, health card, revenue Canada, etc.)
• Relatives & friends
• Insurance, lawyer, tax/financial advisor
• Subscriptions & memberships.
• If moving from a rental, arrange for a refund of your security deposit, if applicable.
• Discontinue additional home services such as housekeeping, gardening service, snow removal, etc
• Start using up things you can’t move such as perishables.
• Notify utility companies of date to terminate/transfer service and/or establish service at your new home.
  • Electric
  • Gas
  • Water
  • Internet
  • Telephone
  • Television

3 WEEKS BEFORE

• Make travel plans.
• Make arrangement with condo management to reserve an elevator if applicable.
• Arrange for child care on moving day.
• Get boxes and moving supplies & start packing.  Make sure to label boxes appropriately as you go.
• Arrange for return of cable tv, internet equipment, etc if applicable.

2 WEEKS BEFORE

• Arrange special transport for your pets.
• Contact your moving company and review arrangements for your move.
• Retrieve/return borrowed items.
• Arrange for major appliances to be moved/delivered if necessary.
• Dispose of flammable materials.

1 WEEK BEFORE

• Pack moving-essential boxes, important documents, travel clothes, personal items and prescription medications.
• Contact lawyer’s office to schedule final signatures and drop off keys for new owners.

2-3 DAYS BEFORE

• Confirm all final arrangements with your mover and other service providers.

MOVING DAY

• Keep paperwork accessible
• Final walk-through; check all closets and cabinets
• Thoroughly clean and ensure all fixtures and included chattels are left for the new homeowners.
• Pick up new keys from your lawyer’s office
• Check all appliances and mechanical components in your new home to make sure everything is working.