8 - 6 Weeks before you move

Do your research on moving companies or local movers, select your mover and book your moving date. Remember weekends, beginning and end of month, and certain holiday periods book quickly. Dispose of things that are not worth moving. If you do this now you will save yourself the time and expense of packing unnecessary items. Order packing supplies. Even if you are having your moving company pack for you, there may be items that you will want to pack yourself. Make any necessary travel arrangements (car, hotel). Obtain medical/dental records.

5 - 4 Weeks before you move

File change of address form with your local post office. Notify utility companies, banks, and cable company. Make appropriate arrangements for pets. If you are not driving, make arrangements for car shipping. Contact insurance company regarding coverage during your move. Transfer bank accounts.

3 - 2 Weeks before you move

Prepare your computers and stereo equipment to be moved and/or packed. Backup, disconnect and label. Empty fuel or other hazardous chemicals from any items that will be moved (ie. Lawnmower). Prepare and organize all personal records and valuables. Keep them in a file and take it with you. We do not recommend packing licenses, passports, credit cards, jewellery or other valuables. Make sure your new location is available for your agreed upon date. If not, storage arrangements will have to be made.

1 Week before you move

If you are packing yourself, make sure all your moving boxes are labelled. This will save you time when you arrive at your new location. Pack personal items you will need while in transit. Reconfirm arrangements with moving company. Make sure they have your new address and ideally, a mobile phone number where you may be reached. If you have children, remember to take a bag with favourite toys, games, stuffed animals, or books. Familiar items can ease a transition into a new location. You may also want to arrange for babysitting help on the day of the move so you can attend to last minute details.

You or an appointed representative should be there when the movers arrive Do a walkthrough with foreman. Review all paperwork. When you sign the inventory sheet, you are acknowledging that all items are accounted for. Note any existing furniture damage. Make sure the foreman has clear directions to your new location and your phone number. Make sure that you have the moving company information with you. Take money, credit cards, mobile phone and keys with you when you leave. Make sure you have funds to cover the cost of the move. Some moving services do not accept personal checks. You or your representative should be available to meet the movers at the new location and to sign off on delivery.