Moving Checklist & Timeline: 13 Things to Do When Moving

When it comes to orchestrating a successful move, having a well-thought-out moving timeline and checklist is key. Starting early with preparations can allow for a smooth transition. Imagine having everything in place, organized, and ready to go when the big day arrives. Get ready by considering how a structured approach and careful planning can turn the daunting task of moving into a manageable and even somewhat enjoyable experience.

5 Moving Timeline Tips

• Start decluttering and gathering moving supplies two months before moving.
• Notify important parties and update utilities one month before moving.
• Finish packing non-essentials and prioritize essentials two weeks before moving.
• Label boxes clearly and address minor repairs in the current home.
• Pack essentials separately for each family member for a smoother transition.

Two Months Before Moving

As you approach the two-month mark before your move, it's crucial to research moving companies, declutter your home, gather moving supplies, and create a moving binder to stay organized.

By starting these tasks now, you'll ensure a smoother transition when your moving day arrives.

Establish a budget, organize important documents, and prepare your belongings for your upcoming move.

• Research moving companies
• If you’re in or moving to a condo, research any special requirements for movers
• Sort items into keep/donate/sell/discard
• Gather boxes/tape/bubble wrap/markers
• Gather important documents you’ll need on hand
• Create a moving binder with the information you’ll need

Research Moving Companies

Begin your home moving preparation by researching moving companies two months before your scheduled move. This early start allows you to compare services, prices, and reviews to make an informed decision—plus, moving companies can be booked out during busy seasons if you wait. By obtaining estimates from multiple moving companies, you can set a budget and understand the range of costs involved. Carefully review all documents from moving companies to clarify terms, conditions, and insurance coverage.

One way to find a reputable moving company is by asking for recommendations from family and friends. Their insights can be valuable in choosing a company that meets your needs. Take the time to research thoroughly, as finding a reliable moving company can significantly impact the success of your move.

Declutter Your Home

To prepare for your upcoming move, start by decluttering your home two months in advance. Sorting through your belongings and deciding what to keep, donate, or discard are crucial steps in simplifying your moving process.

Creating a donation pile for items you no longer need helps lighten your load and can benefit others in need. Decluttering reduces the number of items you have to pack and unpack and makes the entire moving process more efficient. This is especially important if you’re moving long-distance or downsizing.

Consider selling or donating furniture, clothing, and other items that no longer serve you. This will help streamline your move and potentially earn you some extra cash.

Gather Moving Supplies

Ensure you have all the necessary moving supplies ready at least two months before your move to streamline the packing process efficiently. Order essentials such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers well in advance.

Consider checking local grocery stores, liquor stores, or online marketplaces for free boxes to reduce costs. It's crucial to have a variety of box sizes to pack different items appropriately.

Don't overlook packing materials such as bubble wrap, newspapers, and moving blankets for fragile belongings. Having all the required moving supplies prepared ahead of time won't only simplify the packing process; it’ll also make it more organized and less stressful.

Create a Moving Binder

Start compiling all your essential moving documents, receipts, and information into a designated moving binder to stay organized and prepared for your upcoming move. Your moving binder will be your go-to resource throughout the moving process, helping you keep track of estimates, contracts, contact information, and inventory lists.

Consider using dividers or tabs to categorize sections for easy access and reference. Keep the moving binder easily accessible yet secure during the entire moving process. By utilizing the moving binder effectively, you can track your progress, stay within your budget, and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

Having all your moving-related documents in one convenient location will save you time and reduce stress during the hectic moving period. 

One Month Before Moving

As you approach the one-month mark before your move, it's time to kick things into high gear. Start packing up items you won't need immediately. Notify important parties of your address change. Make a plan for your utilities in the new place.

These steps will help you stay organized and prepared for the big moving day ahead.

• Pack non-essential items
• Contact utility providers
• Notify your change of address checklist

Start Packing Non-Essentials

By this time, you should be gearing up to start packing your non-essential items. This proactive step, about a month before your move, can significantly reduce stress and make your transition smoother. Non-essentials can include seasonal clothing, books, decorations, and kitchen gadgets you won't need immediately.

Remember to label boxes clearly with their contents and the room they belong in; this will make unpacking a breeze at your new place.

Packing non-essentials early lets you focus on essential items as the moving date approaches. Gradually organizing and packing these items can also help you declutter and streamline your belongings.

Notify Important Parties of Your New Address

Ensure a smooth transition by notifying important parties of your new address at least one month before moving. Update your address with banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, and other financial institutions to prevent missed statements or bills.

It's crucial to inform utility companies, internet and cable providers, and subscription services about your upcoming move to avoid service interruptions.

Don't overlook notifying healthcare providers, schools, and relevant government agencies of your address change to ensure continued communication and services.

Lastly, update your address with the post office to initiate mail forwarding services to your new location.

Change of Address Checklist

• Relatives
• Friends
• Employers
• Schools
• Clubs/Associations
• Driver’s License/Vehicle Registration
• Canada Revenue Agency
• Canada Post
• Canada Pension Plan
• Old Age Security
• Doctor(s)
• Health Cards
• Dentist
• Vet
• Utility Companies
• Home Insurance
• Phone/Cable/Internet
• Financial Institution(s)
• Other Service Providers
• Subscription Services/Memberships

Plan for Utilities

Contact your utility providers at least one month before your move to arrange for service shutdown at your current residence and activation at your new home. Be sure to provide your new address to ensure a smooth transition of essential services, including electricity, water, gas, and internet.

Notify cable, phone, and security companies about your upcoming relocation and update your account information accordingly. It's crucial to inform your landlord or homeowners association about your moving plans to coordinate necessary arrangements or procedures.

Two Weeks Before Moving

As you approach the two-week mark before your move, it's time to start tying up loose ends and getting ready for the big day.

Be sure to finish packing, tackle any minor repairs or cleaning tasks, and prepare an essentials box containing items you'll need right away in your new home.

These steps will help streamline the moving process and ensure a smooth transition to your new space.

• Finish packing
• Fix minor repairs
• Deep clean the house
• Gather essentials bags for the move
• Pack daily essentials together to unpack first

Finish Packing

With two weeks left before your move, focus on completing the packing of all your belongings to streamline the transition on moving day. Take this time to pack items you use less frequently and prioritize essential items for easy access.

Label boxes clearly with the contents and destination room in your new home to streamline the unpacking process. This ensures you know where everything belongs once you arrive. Double-check that all your valuables are securely packed and ready for transportation—you may wish to transport these yourself rather than with a moving company.

Having everything packed and organized two weeks ahead allows you to focus on other last-minute tasks and preparations. Utilize this time efficiently to avoid any last-minute packing stress on moving day.

Address Minor Repairs and Cleaning

To ensure a smooth moving process two weeks before your move, begin addressing minor repairs and cleaning tasks in your current home. Take the time to patch up any holes in the walls, fix leaky faucets, and repair any small damages around the house.

Deep clean by dusting, vacuuming, mopping floors, and cleaning appliances to leave your home in top condition for the next occupants. If needed, consider hiring professional cleaners for a thorough job on carpets, windows, and other areas that may require specialized cleaning.

Completing these minor repairs and cleaning tasks early on won't only make your current home more presentable but also streamline the moving process, making it more efficient and less stressful. A well-maintained and clean home will also leave a positive impression on the new owners or tenants.

Prepare an Essentials Box

Pack up an essentials box containing vital items for each household member, ensuring easy access during the move. Include toiletries, medications, important documents, and a change of clothes for everyone.

Don't forget basic tools, phone chargers, snacks, water bottles, and any other necessities needed on moving day. Label the essentials box clearly and keep it with you for quick access during the move.

This box will be a lifesaver, providing immediate access to crucial items without having to search through packed boxes. Make sure to also place valuables, sentimental items, and important paperwork in the essentials box for safekeeping during the move.

Having these essentials on hand will help reduce stress and ensure a smoother transition to your new home. Remember to pack thoughtfully and be prepared for any unexpected needs that may arise during the moving process.

Moving Day

As you gear up for moving day, remember to conduct a final sweep of your old home to ensure nothing is left behind. Then, unpack essentials in your new home to simplify your transition. Finally, don't forget to leave keys and important items for the new owners as a thoughtful gesture.

• Final walkthrough
• Load the boxes you want to unpack first, last
• Leave manuals/warranties/other important documents for the new owners
• Hand over the house keys/garage door openers/security codes
• Unpack essentials at the new home

Conduct a Final Sweep

Before departing on moving day, make sure to conduct a final sweep of each room in your home to ensure nothing is left behind. Check closets, drawers, cabinets, and other hidden spaces for overlooked items. 

Verify that all appliances are unplugged, doors and windows are secure, and utilities are turned off to avoid any last-minute hassles. Don't forget to double-check any storage areas, including basements, attics, and garages, for forgotten items. Keep a checklist handy to mark off each area as you complete the final sweep before leaving the old home.

Taking this extra time to ensure you've covered every corner will help make your move smoother and reduce the chances of leaving something important behind.

Leave Keys & Important Items For New Owners

Prioritizing the handover of keys and important items to the new owners on moving day ensures a seamless transition of property ownership.

Leave the keys in a secure spot so the new owners can effortlessly access the property. Along with the keys, provide any essential documents, manuals, or warranties to assist the new owners in familiarizing themselves with the property.

Consider leaving a thoughtful welcome note or a small gift as a friendly gesture to start their journey in the new home positively. Remember to leave all keys, garage door openers, and security codes in a designated area for the new owners' convenience.

Additionally, communicate specific instructions or tips about the property to help the new owners settle in comfortably and make the transition smoother. By leaving these key items and information, you can ensure a warm welcome for the new owners and a successful handover process.

Unpack Essentials First

When you’ve arrived at your new home, focus on unpacking essentials first to have immediate access to necessary items such as toiletries, bedding, and basic kitchen supplies.

Unpack a change of clothes, toiletries, medications, important documents, and essential kitchen utensils. Prioritizing these essentials ensures a smooth transition into your new home without feeling overwhelmed by the unpacking process.

Having key items accessible can help you settle in quickly and comfortably on moving day. Unpacking essentials first allows you to concentrate on setting up basic amenities and creating a functional living space before tackling less crucial items.

Simplify Your Move

Thanks to these tips, you've set yourself up for a smooth and successful moving process. Remember to stay organized, communicate with important parties, and tackle any last-minute tasks. With everything in place, you can look forward to settling into your new home with ease.