Large Enough To Handle... Small Enough To Care.

Moving can be a daunting task. In addition to having to deal with all of the logistical details and potentially stressful situations, you are facing the uncertainty of a new environment. To relieve your anxiety we put together this simple step-by-step timeline guide.

Now you can check the items off the list and move into your new situation with confidence and peace of mind.

                                                         COUNTDOWN CALENDAR

  4 TO 6 WKS BEFORE THE MOVE (CHECK LIST)

  • Decide on your approximate move date.
  • Notify realtor or landlord
  • Clean out your closets, cupboards, toy chests, shelves, attic, garage and basement. Discard anything you do not want or need. A good rule of thumb is if you did not use something in the last year or two, chances are you do not really need it.
  • Make a complete list of items to be moved. Decide which items that will come with you and which will stay behind.
  • Consider having a garage sale, gift unwanted items to friends and neighbors or donate them to charities.
  • Should you have to dispose of any Appliances, Furniture ,Electronics, Construction Debris, Yard Waste or Unwanted Vehicles; contact your local Junk Removal Company.
  • Arrange to collect any advance or security deposits on utilities or rentals. These could be a nice addition to your tight relocation budget.

2 TO 3 WKS BEFORE THE MOVE (CHECK LIST)

  • Notify the post office. Find out your new postal code. Send change of address cards.
  • Arrange to have utilities disconnected and reconnected at new adress before you arrive. (Phone, Gas, Hydro, Cable, Internet)
  • Transfer fire, theft and other insurance. (If planning a long distance move, check your insurance policy to see whether a long-distance move is covered.)
  • Ask your bank to transfer your accounts to the branch nearest your new home.
  • Discontinue newspaper delivery, sanitation and any other regular services. Make sure to check fitness clubs, school or gymnasium lockers for stored belongings.
  • Prepare a floor plan of your new home and make extra copies. They will be very helpful for moving in.
  • If you plan to do some of the packing, start now. (Should you need help with packing, contact us or have a look at our Moving Supplies List for all your packing needs.)  
  • Plan menus to use up stocks of canned and frozen foods.
  • Collect items being cleaned, repaired, stored and loaned to friends.
  • Arrange care for young children and pets during the busy days of packing, loading and moving in.
  • Never pack valuables. Keep money, jewellry and bonds with you or arrange for a courier service to transport them.

1 WEEK BEFORE THE MOVE (CHECK LIST)

  • If moving to and from an apartment, contact your resident manager to schedule an elevator reservation and have him or she provide you with the elavator key on moving day.
  • Keep seperate any food,plates and utensils that you will need during the
    last days. Pack them on moving day.
  • Keep detailed records and receipts of all your moving expenses. Depending on your situation, these expenses maybe claimed on your income tax as long as you are moving farther than 40km.

  • Drain fuel from the lawnmower and other machinery. Safely dispose of all Dangerous Goods (gasoline, oil, matches, paints, aerosol cans).

  • Prepare a box for last on and first off the van. Include all essentials from your kitchen (snacks & drinks) and bathroom as well as medications and first-aid supplies. Also, include a set of tools with a hammer, pliers, screwdrivers, nails and screws.

  • Defrost and clean your fridge and freezer at least a day before the move.

  • Put linens and pillows in dresser drawers to have handy for making up your beds the first night.

  • Place draperies lengthwise on hangers and hang in a closet, the movers will place them in wardrobe cartons. Keep your telephone connected throughout your moving day.

  • Set aside and label items such as luggage that you do not want packed or moved.

  • Pack the phone book, it will be very useful after your move.

MOVING DAY (CHECK LIST)

  • Make sure that their is Available parking closest to your residence to enable the move in question to go smoothly and prevent long trips back and forth, therefore saving time & money.
  • Make sure fragile items receive special attention. Label each box with the contents and location in the new home.
  • Place a floor plan of your new home by the entrance, so the movers know where to place each piece of furniture.
  • To prevent possible damage, television sets, other electronic equipment and major appliances should not be used before they have a chance to adjust to room temperature.
  • Collect all house keys and arrange to leave them with the new owners, your real estate agent or landlord. You may want to notify the police if your home will be unoccupied for some time.


If you have any questions, or require further assistance, give us a call. We'll be glad to help!