Ultimate Moving Checklist: 8 Weeks to Moving Day

8 Weeks Before Moving Day

Starting your moving preparations 8 weeks in advance gives you plenty of time to handle everything without stress. This is when you lay the foundation for a successful move.

Research and Planning

• Research moving companies and get at least 3 quotes
• Check reviews and verify licensing and insurance
• Set your moving budget and timeline
• Create a moving binder or digital folder for all documents
• Start decluttering - decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard

Administrative Tasks

• Notify your landlord if you're renting (check lease requirements)
• Research your new neighborhood and local services
• Start collecting moving supplies or research rental options
• Begin using up frozen and perishable food items

6 Weeks Before Moving Day

This is when you start making concrete commitments and bookings. Many services require advance notice, so don't delay these important tasks.

Book Your Services

• Book your moving company and confirm all details in writing
• Schedule time off work for moving day and settling in
• Research and contact utility companies for your new home
• Schedule disconnection of utilities at your current home
• Research schools in your new area if you have children

Documentation

• Order copies of medical, dental, and veterinary records
• Research doctors, dentists, and veterinarians in your new area
• Start gathering important documents in one place
• Take photos of valuable items for insurance purposes

4 Weeks Before Moving Day

One month out is when you handle most of the address changes and start the physical preparation process.

Address Changes

• Submit change of address form with Canada Post
• Notify your bank and credit card companies
• Update your address with insurance companies (auto, home, life)
• Notify your employer's HR department
• Update voter registration
• Notify Canada Revenue Agency and provincial tax authorities

Preparation Tasks

• Start packing non-essential items
• Label boxes clearly with contents and destination room
• Create an inventory list of your belongings
• Arrange for transfer of prescriptions to new pharmacy
• Research moving day parking permits if needed

2 Weeks Before Moving Day

Two weeks out is crunch time for confirmations and final preparations. This is when you ensure everything is on track.

Confirmations and Final Bookings

• Confirm moving company details, timing, and pricing
• Confirm utility connection dates for your new home
• Confirm utility disconnection dates for current home
• Book elevator reservations at both locations if needed
• Arrange child or pet care for moving day

Continued Preparation

• Continue packing room by room
• Pack a "first week" box with essentials
• Confirm school transfers and enrollment if applicable
• Return borrowed items and collect loaned items
• Use up remaining frozen and perishable foods

1 Week Before Moving Day

The final week is about finishing touches and ensuring you're completely ready for the big day.

Final Preparations

• Pack everything except daily essentials
• Prepare a suitcase with clothes and toiletries for the first few days
• Confirm all arrangements with moving company
• Get cash for moving day tips and unexpected expenses
• Clean out safety deposit boxes

Last-Minute Tasks

• Pack a cleaning kit for both homes
• Charge all electronic devices
• Back up computer files
• Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks for moving day
• Prepare a "survival kit" box with immediate necessities

Moving Day

The big day has arrived! Stay organized and keep these tips in mind for a smooth moving experience.

Before the Movers Arrive

• Pack remaining toiletries and essentials
• Strip beds and pack bedding
• Do a final walkthrough and take photos
• Keep important documents and valuables with you
• Have payment ready for the movers

During the Move

• Be present to answer questions and provide directions
• Check inventory list and note any issues
• Keep pets in a safe, quiet area
• Stay hydrated and take breaks
• Take photos of any damage immediately

At Your New Home

• Do a walkthrough before movers arrive
• Check that utilities are working
• Direct movers on furniture and box placement
• Check inventory list before signing off
• Tip your movers (typically $20-40 per mover)

First Week After Moving

You've made it to your new home! Now focus on settling in and handling immediate priorities.

Immediate Priorities

• Unpack essentials box and set up basics
• Set up beds for the first night
• Locate and test main water shutoff and circuit breaker
• Find a local grocery store and pharmacy
• Update your address with immediate contacts

First Week Tasks

• Register children for school
• Find new healthcare providers
• Register to vote in your new area
• Get new driver's license and vehicle registration
• Find local banks and transfer accounts if needed
• Explore your new neighborhood

First Month After Moving

Use your first month to fully settle in and establish yourself in your new community.

Settling In

• Unpack room by room, starting with most essential areas
• Submit any damage claims to your moving company
• Leave reviews for your moving company
• Find local services (dry cleaner, mechanic, etc.)
• Join community groups or organizations

Administrative Cleanup

• Update address with any missed accounts or services
• Register with new municipal services
• Update emergency contacts at work and school
• Find new recreational activities and hobbies
• Plan a housewarming party to meet neighbors

Moving Day Survival Kit

Pack these essential items in a clearly labeled box that travels with you:

Documents and Valuables

• Important documents (passport, birth certificates, insurance papers)
• Moving contracts and inventory lists
• Cash and credit cards
• Jewelry and small valuables
• Electronic devices and chargers

Daily Essentials

• Change of clothes for 2-3 days
• Toiletries and medications
• Basic tools (screwdriver, hammer, box cutter)
• Cleaning supplies
• First aid kit
• Snacks and bottled water
• Phone chargers
• Toilet paper and paper towels