Moving always brings mixed emotions – it can be both very exciting and stressful at the same time. To help, here are some useful tips that will help make your move efficient and trouble-free.

4 to 6 Weeks before moving

• Schedule your mail to be forwarded to your new address with Canada Post.

2 to 3 Weeks before moving

• Get boxes and moving supplies

• Arrange phone service at your new home

• Take unwanted items to charity and/or dump

• Dispose of household chemicals properly (old paint, caustic cleaners, etc.). Take these to the local Toxic Waste Centre

• Arrange the return of any cable TV equipment

• Complete necessary change of address forms:

• Drivers’ license, Health cards, Insurance

• Employer, Doctor, Dentist

• Magazine subscriptions and other mailings

• Memberships, insurance

• Bank accounts, credit cards, and tax office (Canada Revenue Agency)

• If necessary, do the following:

• Make travel arrangements and reservations.

• Arrange transfer of car insurance & license plates.

• Notify kids’ schools, transfer records.

• Register at new school.

• Get copies of medical and dental records; if you have pets, get copies of veterinary records.

8 to 14 days before moving

• Return borrowed items.

• Arrange connection of utilities at new place.

• Retrieve loaned items

• Arrange disconnection of utilities at old place.

• Arrange for major appliances to be moved, if necessary

• Dispose of all flammable materials.

2 to 7 days before moving

• Determine what you can bring with you if travelling by car, plane, train, or bus.

• Pack a suitcase with the clothes and toiletries that you’ll need the first day in your new home.

• Prepare “installed items” that you’re bringing (TV antenna or shelves*).

• Pack a special box with other essentials you’ll need for the first few days and marks this box “Do Not Move”.

The day before moving

• Take down curtains and curtain rods.

• Pack your personal belongings, except your alarm clock, necessary clothes, jewelry and bedding

• Empty, defrost and clean refrigerator; clean the stove.

• Moving day!

• Keep paperwork accessible.

• Collect all keys; keep them in a safe place.

• Strip and dismantle beds.

• Clean premises that you are leaving. Final walk-through: check all closets and cabinets

• If using a moving company, confirm the new address and delivery time with the driver

• If using a moving company, walk about with supervisor and sign inventory forms.

• Know how to reach your new landlord or superintendent.

After moving

Contact city/municipal offices to find out about garbage pickup, recycling facilities and local regulations and information.