If you’re planning to relocate and want to remember all you need to do before you go, using a moving checklist PDF is the best way to get started.
A moving checklist isn’t just any list; rather, it is a handy checklist of major tasks you should complete before you move.
The moment you decide to move, the clock begins to tick. But don’t worry; the ultimate moving checklist pdf and the right moving company can help you before, during and after the move.
DOWNLOAD PRINTABLE MOVING CHECKLIST PDF
Six Months Before Your Move
Start thinking about your move and make some initial preparations
Research moving companies near you
Start researching moving companies in your area and get quotes from different companies. Be sure to check reviews and ratings for the company and ask for referrals from friends and family members who have recently moved.
Declutter & sell or donate unwanted items
Get rid of items you no longer need or want. Review your belongings and set aside items to sell, donate, or give away.
Research your new neighbourhood
If you’re moving to another province or new area, take some time to research your new neighbourhood. Find information about local amenities, crime rates, and school ratings to help you make informed decisions.
Plan your packing strategy
Begin planning your packing strategy. While movers know how to pack for a move with quality materials, you should start managing items movers won’t move.
Power Tip: Make a smart move, get junk removal services, donate your clothes, and sell online using Facebook marketplace or Kijiji. DO NOT BUY NEW STUFF!
Three Months Before Your Move
Start packing non-essential items and notify utility companies about your move.
Finalize your moving date & book your moving company
By now, you should have a good idea of your moving date. Finalize the date and book your moving company as soon as possible to ensure availability.
Notify your landlord or current property manager
If you’re renting, notify your landlord or current property manager about your upcoming move. Check your lease agreement for any requirements or restrictions related to moving out.
Make a list of essential contacts (e.g., utilities, banks, doctors, schools)
Create a list of essential contacts to notify about your move, such as utility companies, banks, doctors, and schools. Be sure to update your address with each of these organizations.
Gather your moving supplies
Start collecting your essential moving supplies by looking around. Placing an online order is convenient, but be sure to choose the right sizes for your moving boxes.
Research storage options if needed
If you need to temporarily store some of your belongings, research storage services in your area. Look for secure facilities with climate control and good reviews.
Power Tip: Try using a storage facility from a moving company that provides climate control, security, and protection for your belongings.
One Month Before Your Move
Start wrapping up your preparations and make final arrangements
Confirm your moving details with your moving company
Confirm the details of your move, including the date, time, and any special instructions, with your moving company. Ensure you have a contact person and phone number for the day of the move.
Finish packing non-essential items
Finish packing non-essential items and keep only what you need for the last few weeks. Clearly label each box and pack a box with essentials like toiletries and a change of clothes.
Confirm utility and service connectivity
Confirm disconnections of utilities and services at your current home and connections at your new home or office. This includes electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable.
Make arrangements for pets and children
If you are moving with dogs or children, plan their move. Consider hiring a pet sitter or babysitter to keep them safe and entertained.
Update your address
To update your existing address to the new one, you must notify the following organizations:
- Postal service
- Internal revenue
- Social security
- Driver’s license
- Banks
- Loans
- Subscriptions newspapers
- Medical records
- Credit and debit cards
- Insurance
- Doctor
- School
- Insurance
- Family/ Friends
- Dental records
- Voter registration
Dispose of hazardous materials
Dispose of any hazardous materials, such as paint, chemicals, and batteries, safely and by local regulations.
The Moving Day
Stay on top of things to make your big day smooth
Be Available for the movers
Be available to answer any questions your movers may have and to direct them to the right rooms in your new home or office.
Have cash on hand
Get some cash on hand to tip your movers and pay for unexpected expenses.
Do a final walkthrough
Give a final check to your old home or office to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything. Check closets, drawers, and cabinets.
Stay organized
Keep your day running smoothly by storing essentials like your keys, phone, and important documents in a secure, designated spot.
Hand over the keys to your landlord
Finally, when you’ve moved everything from the old place to the new one, it’s time to give over the keys to your landlord.
After Move
Unpack belongings and organize your new home
Check your new place before you move in
Do a final walkthrough of your new home or office to ensure everything is in order and to check for any damages.
Unpack the boxes
Start unpacking your boxes as soon as possible. This will help you feel more settled in your new home or office.
Confirm your new address with all services
Make sure to confirm your new address with all the services, such as your bank, credit card companies, and any other important organizations.
Utilities to activate
There will be no connection to your utilities; after moving into your new home or office, you will need to activate all the following utilities:
- Telephone
- Water
- Garbage Removal
- Gas & Electricity
- Cable/Internet
Meet your neighbours
Introduce yourself to your new neighbours. This is a great way to get to know the people in your new community. You can also join a local club or organization to meet new people and get involved in your community.
Explore your new city
Take some time to explore your new city. Check out local restaurants, parks, and attractions.
Settle in and enjoy your new home or office
Remember that it takes time to settle into a new home or workplace. Don’t get too stressed out if things don’t feel perfect immediately.
Finally, enjoy your new place! Take some time to relax.
Conclusion
Finally, a well-planned and structured move is essential for a seamless relocation. You can ensure that no crucial activities are neglected by following this complete checklist for moving.
Each step, from researching moving firms and decluttering to notifying contacts and packing wisely, is critical to the success of your relocation.
You may efficiently complete the process by clarifying facts, staying organized, and conducting a last walkthrough on a moving day.
Remember to relax and enjoy the thrill of beginning over. Your relocation to your new home or business will be smooth and painless if you use this free printable moving checklist pdf.