The Complete Moving Checklist

Finding a new home is an exciting time in anyone’s life. From redecorating with fresh fashions to exploring new neighbourhood spots, starting over in a different place can be inspiring and rejuvenating. But, it can also be quite stressful and overwhelming. All the planning, packing and significant change is enough to overwhelm even the most organized person.
Before the big moving day arrives, write up a comprehensive moving checklist with all the to-dos you need to accomplish in chronological order. Whether it’s sorting through accumulated belongings or making dreaded administrative phone calls, the earlier you cross tasks off your list, the better prepared and less stressed you’ll feel.
To boost your motivation and organization, we’ve rounded up our top nine essential moving tips. Follow our structured advice, and you’ll be well on your way to a smooth and seamless transition into your new home.

Essential Preparation Two Months Before Your Move

1. Find the right moving company

Spare your friends and family the physical strain and search for accredited professional movers in your city. Thoroughly vet a variety of customer reviews on Google, Better Business Bureau and Facebook platforms. Then, get detailed written quotes from at least three reputable companies. Ask plenty of specific questions: Can they provide a transparent breakdown of all costs? How many trained workers will be present on moving day? Do they offer comprehensive moving insurance for valuables? Once you’ve picked the best team for the job, get all terms and conditions confirmed in writing.

2. Sell, donate or store unneeded items

Now is the perfect time to declutter and start fresh, especially if your new home is much smaller or larger than your current living space. Put that old couch up for sale on Facebook Marketplace, donate unwanted clothes to Goodwill and rent a secure storage unit for your valuable belongings to safely store any oversized sporting equipment or cherished family antiques you need to stow away but want to keep.

3. Research your neighbourhood

Is your new community located in a different part of town, or in a whole other city altogether? Ease your transition jitters by thoroughly researching and looking up essential services like shopping malls, banking institutions, grocery stores, medical doctors and dental practitioners in your immediate area. If you can, take a personal stroll around the neighborhood blocks to visually familiarize yourself with your new surroundings and community amenities.

Storage and Organization One Month Before Relocation

4. Buy packing supplies

Stock up on a variety of appropriately sized boxes, strong packing tape, sharp box cutters, clear labels, and permanent markers. At U•STORE•IT, we offer specialty packing supplies designed specifically for your moving needs, such as protective moving blankets and dish-guard kits, to safely protect your fragile belongings during transport. To avoid any supply shortages on the big day, purchase more boxes and materials than you initially estimate you’ll need.

5. Change your address

Share your new address details with your employer, insurance companies, banking institutions and magazine subscription services. Visit your local registry office to officially update your driver’s license and vehicle registration documents. If you’re concerned about missing important letters and documents during the transition period, sign up for mail forwarding service with Canada Post for seamless delivery.

6. Start packing

Begin your packing process with infrequently used seasonal items and rarely accessed belongings, such as Christmas decorations or stored items from the attic and basement areas. Clearly label and colour-code boxes with the specific name of the room where they belong in your new home, and then create a detailed inventory list to systematically keep track of everything you’ve packed.

Final Steps One to Two Weeks Before Moving

7. Switch over your utilities

Proactively contact the gas, electric, water, internet and cable service providers to notify them of your upcoming relocation. These utility companies can help you schedule appropriate shut-offs at your current residence and set up new utility services at your new home address. Your mobile phone bill will thank you for establishing the wifi connection promptly after moving in.

8. Keep packing

Complete a little bit of packing every day, methodically focusing on one specific room at a time. Be sure to pack a separate secure box for valuable items, jewelry and important legal documents, so you can safely transport them yourself. Have each family member prepare and stock a personal suitcase for immediate essentials, including clothes, toiletries and nutritious snacks, to comfortably tide everyone over for the first few days after the move while unpacking.

9. Tidy up your space

Thoroughly clean your current home to ace your final walk-through inspection so you can successfully receive your security deposit back. As you pack up furniture, dust all surfaces thoroughly, vacuum the rugs completely, mop the floors properly and scrub out the oven interior. If your refrigerator and freezer appliances are coming with you to the new home, be sure to unplug them at least 24 hours before the scheduled move to allow them sufficient time to defrost completely.
Once moving day finally arrives, give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back. You have successfully survived a significant life change and you’re now ready to welcome a wonderful new phase in your personal journey.

Secure Storage Solutions for Your Transition

While you’re engaged in the packing process, consider renting a climate-controlled self-storage unit to keep your excess possessions safely organized. We offer convenient self-storage facilities strategically located in North Edmonton, West Edmonton, South Edmonton, St. Albert, and Red Deer. Our facilities feature spacious storage units, 24-hour video surveillance security, climate-controlled storage bays and knowledgeable helpful staff members.
Be sure to explore our customizable residential storage options and contact our customer service team to get personalized pricing today.