If you're planning a move this summer, take some time to get organized. A well-organized move can go a long way to cut down on stress and improve the moving experience. Here's a checklist to help you. 

Six to eight weeks before you move

• Make moving arrangements with a moving company or moving truck rental company 
• Draw out a floor plan of your new home to decide where your belongings will go
• Get packing supplies (tape, boxes, tissue paper, bubble wrap, markers etc.)
• Clean out your closets, basement, shed and garage
• Advise the post office of your new address and moving date
• Send change of address notices to:
  • Phone company
  • Insurance company — Arrange to transfer your household insurance to your new property
  • Financial Institution and credit card companies
  • Utility and cable/satellite providers — Make arrangements to start services on the date of your arrival at your new home

Two to four weeks before you move 

• Cancel or transfer newspaper, magazines and other home deliveries
• Reserve an elevator with your building superintendent if you’re moving from a condo or apartment building

Two to three days before you move

Complete all packing and: 

• Label boxes with the room they will go in
• Place all important documents in a "Safe Box" that you will transport personally
• Prepare an "Open First" box with the basic necessities for your first night
• Label all keys for the new occupants
• Conduct an initial visit to your new home to verify everything’s okay

Moving Day

For your old home:

• Check all rooms and closets to make sure nothing has been left behind
• Ensure that all electrical devices are unplugged and the thermostat is turned down
• Turn off the toilet and hot water tank (if accessible)
• Leave labeled keys with the landlord, lawyer or real estate agent

For your new home:

• Check that you have keys to all the locks in your new home
• Make sure that all utilities are working properly in your new home
• Provide movers with the floor plan
• Check the condition of each box or household item as it is unloaded and make note of any damages

After you move

• Change your address on your driver’s licence, for your car insurance and with your employer

Download a printable pdf checklist

Originally posted on June 5, 2018.