Prepare for a hassle-free move

First step: Decide on a moving date. Next up: book a moving company or enlist your friends’ help. 

If you’re getting friends or family members to pitch in, start reaching out:

• Be specific with your requests (responsibilities, time, expectations) 
• Some friends may have a vehicle, tools or handy equipment
• Split up roles and responsibilities (such as transportation, cleaning and meals)
• For bigger jobs, it might be a good idea to hire outside help

If you're renting a truck or van:

• Compare prices between rental companies
• Make sure you're clear on what’s provided: dollies, straps, insurance coverages and so on.
• Get the total price after taxes, insurance and other fees

Book your team of professionals sooner rather than later and make sure you get:

• An estimate of total costs, after taxes
• The number of hours and workers included:
• Proof that the movers are insured (for damage and liability)

Plan address changes

Start by take a full inventory of all mail you receive, including any you don't get very often.  Be sure to make a list of companies you need to contact to update your information.

For example:

• Employer
• Federal and provincial governments, provincial health insurance pan and licence
• Telecommunications providers (phone, TV and so on)
• Home and auto insurance companies
• Life, health and disability Insurance companies
• Financial institution
• Subscriptions, clubs, etc.

Start packing

It's never too early. By starting with seasonal items and other things you don't use very often, you'll be more relaxed the day before the move. Now's the perfect time to sort through all your stuff. Go through every room and closet and consider tossing anything you haven't worn or used in 2 years.

Tips for safe, effective labeling

• Be sure to label all of your boxes on multiple sides (living room, bedroom, kitchen – plates and so on). That way, the movers will know where to put things and you won't have to move them around afterwards.
• For professional movers , heavy boxes make for more efficient moving between home and truck.
• Put all your valuables or fragile items in a special place so you can take them with you in the car .

Now's the time to update your home and auto insurance policies, as your insurance needs are changing.

It’s essential that you inform your insurer of a change of address  Your home and auto insurance needs and premium depend on many factors, including your new address.

Here are some things you should mention to your insurer:

You’re now working from home

New coverages might be added to your home insurance to cover liability for your property and professional activities.  Using your car less could have an impact on your auto insurance premium.

You’re planning to do work on your home

Notify your insurer before starting any renovation projects. They'll tell you about any extra coverages you'll need while the work is being done. You'll also need to update your file once the renovations are complete.

Are you installing a system to prevent theft, fire or water damage?

Having a centrally monitored fire alarm, anti-theft, or water damage prevention system could reduce your home insurance premium. For the opposite reason, you should tell your insurer if you’re removing the system.

You have another tenant:

Add them to the policy and share the cost of the premium! Take their property into consideration to make sure your coverages cover the value of the entire household’s property. If you’re moving out, make sure to notify them! Your insurer should contact the other tenant to update the policy after you leave.

Now's the time to pick up the pace and get those boxes packed.  Do you have enough boxes?  Do you have the right tools ? Packing tape, markers, measuring tape, packaging for fragile items?

Take advantage of this opportunity to explore your new neighbourhood, find out what businesses are nearby and look into transferring pharmacy, dental and other records. You might also want to find a few good food delivery places.

• Confirm the time with your moving team.
• Prepare water and snacks
• Finish packing and put boxes near the door
• Arrange for key drop-off and pickup
• Make sure you have important documents, like your lease and insurance papers, on hand
• Prepare a small bag of things you'll need right away so you can easily find them without having to rummage through boxes.

It's the big day! You’re almost there! In a few hours, you’ll be in your new home,It will probably be a long day, and you'll be happy you took the time to get organized. Be sure to thank everyone who helps you.