Moving Checklist

moving checklist

Save time and hassle when you use our handy checklist to prepare for your move. On The Move is ready to assist you with all of your moving questions and concerns.

Give us a call at 705-930-6683 to schedule a free consultation and estimate.

before the move

1 – 2 Months before the Move

Create a binder / folder for moving records. (estimates, receipts, inventory lists, etc.)
Plan your moving method (truck rental, hiring movers, etc.) and get cost estimates.
See if your employer will provide moving expense benefits.
Research storage facilities if needed.
Schedule disconnection/connection of utilities at old and new place:
Phone
Internet
Cable
Water
Garbage
Gas
Electric
Plan how you will move vehicles, plants, pets, and valuables.
Plan how you will arrange furniture in the new place – use a floor plan or sketch.
Schedule transfer of records (medical, children in school, etc.)
Acquire packing materials. (boxes, tape, stuffing/padding, markers, etc.)
Return borrowed, checked-out, and rented items.
Get back things you have lent to others.
Start using up stored food so that there is less to move.

3 – 4 Weeks before the Move

Finalize moving method and make necessary arrangements.
Begin packing non-essential items.
Label boxes according to room and contents.
Separate valuable items to transport yourself.
Label as DO NOT MOVE.
Keep a box out for storing pieces, parts, and essential tools that you will want to keep with you on moving day.
Label as PARTS / DO NOT MOVE.
Fill out a change of address form at a post office or online.
Provide important contacts with your new address:
Employer
Family and Friends
Attorney
Accountant
Others
Notify your insurance and credit card companies about your change of address.

1 – 2 Weeks before the Move

Continue packing and cleaning as you go.
Pack items separately that you will need right away when you get to your new place.
Plan to take the day off for moving day.
Find someone to help watch small children on moving day.
Begin to pack your suitcases with clothes and personal items you will need for the trip.
Reconfirm your method of moving with those involved.
Schedule cancellation of services at your old place:
Newspaper
Housecleaning
Lawn
Pool
Water Delivery
Disassemble furniture if necessary. (desks, shelves, etc.)
Make sure all paperwork for the old and new place is complete.
If travelling far, notify credit card companies to prevent automated deactivation.
Get rid of flammables, such as paint, propane, and gasoline.
Try to use up perishable foods.

2 – 4 Days before the Move

Confirm all moving details and confirm that you have all necessary paperwork.

Make a schedule or action plan for the day of the move.

Prepare for the moving expenses. (transport, food, lodging)

Continue cleaning the house as you are packing.

Defrost your freezer and clean the fridge.

Make sure essential tools are handy. (screwdriver, wrench, pliers, tape, etc.)

Pack a bag containing water bottles, pen and paper, snacks, documents, and essentials.

Set boxes and items that you are moving yourself aside. (make sure you’ll have room)

moving day

moving day

Remove bedding and take apart beds.
Go early to pick up truck if you rented one.
Take movers/ helpers through the house to inform them of what to do.
Walk through the empty place to check for things left behind. (look behind doors)
Leave your contact information for the new residents to forward mail.
Make sure movers have the correct new address.
Lock windows and doors, turn off lights.

at your new place

at your new place

Verify utilities are turned on and working – especially power, water, heating, and cooling.
Perform an initial inspection, note all damages, take photographs if needed.
Clean the kitchen and vacuum as needed. (especially where furniture will be placed)
Direct movers/ helpers where to put things.
Offer drinks and snacks, especially if the helpers are volunteers.
Assemble beds with bedding.
Begin unpacking, starting with the kitchen, bathroom, and other essentials.