Moving

Here is some valuable information and dozens of useful tips that will help make your move efficient and trouble-free.

6 Weeks before moving

Make an inventory of everything that you need
Collect everything not to be moved for a garage sale or charity.
Contact the charity for the date/time of pickup. Save receipts for tax records.
Contact several moving companies for estimates.
Select a mover.
Contact your insurance agent to transfer or cancel coverage.
Check with your employer to determine any moving expenses they will pay.

4 Weeks before moving

Notify all magazines of your change of address
Check with your veterinarian for pet records and immunizations.
Contact utility companies for refunds of deposits; and notify them of your moving date.
Dry-clean clothes to be moved; pack them in protective wrappers.
Collect everything you have loaned out; return everything you have borrowed.
Service powers mowers, boats, snowmobiles, and other equipment that is to be moved.
Drain all gas/oil to prevent a fire in the moving van.
Check with your doctors and dentist for all family records and prescriptions.
Get your children’s school records.
Check the freezer and plan to use food over the next two to three weeks
Remove all jewellery and other valuables to a safe deposit box or other safe place to prevent loss during the move.
Back up your computer data files.
Prepare a file to keep receipts of moving expenses and reimbursements for tax deductions.
Transfer or resign club memberships.
Notify housekeepers or housecleaning service.
Notify the appropriate Ministry of Transportation.
Complete Change of Address.
Notify credit card companies, banks, insurance companies and other financial institutions.
Notify alarm service.
Arrange for cancellation or change of address for newspaper and magazine subscriptions.
Assure you have adequate insurance for goods in transit.
Arrange for friends and family to help you on moving day.
Arrange for any cleaning or repairs that has to be done at your new home.
Plan a going-away party for your family and friends.
Verify your moving in date with your new Realtor.
Reserve elevator if moving from or to a building.

One week before moving

Have your car serviced for the trip.
Fill out post office change of address forms.
Dispose of all combustibles and spray cans
Pack a separate carton of cleaning utensils and tools (screwdriver, hammer, etc.)
Separate cartons and luggage you need for personal/family travel.
Mark all boxes that you pack with the room they will be going to in your new home.
Organize at least one room in the house for packers and movers to work freely.
Review the entire list to make certain that you haven’t overlooked anything.
Check and double-check everything you have done before it’s too late.

One day before moving

Ensure that you have arranged a place to pick up the keys to the new residence.
Turn off all lights and non-essential electronics you’re leaving behind. Turn down/off furnace.
Defrost freezer and refrigerator. Place deodorizer inside to control odours.
Give a close friend or relative your travel route and schedule so you may be reached if needed.
Carry important documents, currency and jewellery yourself, or use registered mail.
Carry cash or travellers cheques for quick, available funds.
Make sure you have your automobile ownership.
Lock all doors and windows.
Double check rooms, closets, drawers, shelves, outdoor areas and garage to make sure you've taken everything.
Give your Rogers Home Phone or Rogers Wireless phone number to your mover before they leave.
Make sure you have your moving-related documents.

Moving day

Plan to spend the entire day at the house. Last-minute decisions must be made by you.
Don’t leave until the movers have gone.
Hire a babysitter or send the children to a friend’s house for the day.
Make a final check of the entire house – basement, closets, shelves, attic, garage, and every room.
Approve and sign the bill of lading.
Lock all the doors and windows.