8-Week Moving Checklist

You’ve found your new home and you’re bracing yourself for all the heavy lifting ahead. If all goes according to plan, a flawless move will take about 8 weeks, preparations and the big move included. Moving homes may seem daunting, but before you get too overwhelmed, go through our 8-week Moving Checklist and let’s turn this major milestone into something you can accomplish with plenty of room to breathe in between.

Eight weeks before Moving Day

• If you’re a renter, the first thing to do is to give notice to your landlord. Refer to your contract for the applicable process.
• Now is a good time to start on the de-cluttering. Best to do it early than bring stuff with you that you will be off-loading in the new house, eventually.
• Begin notifying your utility providers (such as electric, gas, water, internet and telephone) about the impending change of address.
• Begin collecting packing boxes from family and friends. Websites like Freecycle and Gumtree can help, as well.

Four weeks before Moving Day

• Once you’ve started packing and have gotten an idea as to how much stuff you’ll be transporting, start looking for a moving company. Also, consider access and parking restrictions in both the old and new locations.
• Look into applicable government agencies you need to modify member information with, such as internal revenue, social security, postal service, transport bureau, etc.
• Put your renter/owner insurance in order. Consider signing a moving insurance, if it’s not yet included in your coverage.
• Begin cleaning external areas like sheds and gardens.

Two weeks before Moving Day

• Start packing non-essentials (such as seasonal items like duvets, drapes, Christmas trees, etc.), spares, and everything else that you will not be using for the next couple of weeks. Remember to label your boxes according to the intended room.
• Start conscious shopping, especially with food. Buy only what you will be using in the next few weeks. Consume frozen food items.
• Have your car checked and serviced, ensuring it will be in good condition for your move.
• Arrange for child or pet care for Moving Day, if needed.
• Request time-off from work, if necessary.
• Book a storage unit, if you anticipate that your belongings will not all fit into the new house upon moving.

A week before Moving Day

• Confirm the date, time, and locations with your moving company.
• You should be at least 98% packed by this time. Pack, in a separate box or suitcase, essential items like change of clothes, toiletries, blankets, and snacks that you will need on your first night in the new house.
• It might be good sense to contract a locksmith to change all the locks in the new home.
• Disassemble furniture, shelves, etc. for more efficient transport.
• Takedown wall hangings and other fitted items that you will be taking to the new home. Here, you will see any nail holes, marks, or scratches that need repairing.
• Arrange for a final walk-through with your landlord, if applicable.

Three Days before Moving Day

• Follow up with your utilities provider, confirming the new address and date of the move. Confirm transfer or termination of services, whichever is applicable.
• Secure essential documents and valuables in a separate bag or box and label them as something to load in the car with you and not in the moving van.
• Clean out and defrost your refrigerator or freezer. Dispose of any expired food items.

Moving Day

• Make one final walk-through and check the house, going through each room, cabinet, and drawer. Ensure everything has been loaded into the van or car.
• Take photos of all rooms as proof of condition right before you leave it. Record meter readings (taking photos with your phone might be best, as well).
• Ensure the house is properly locked and secure right before leaving. Surrender all keys to the applicable party (like the landlord, new owner, or listing agent).

After weeks of preparation, you’re finally in your new home. Avoid giving in to the temptation of unpacking and fixing everything all at once. Getting settled in is a process that will take another few weeks. What’s important is you spend a relaxing end of the day with your loved ones, have dinner by the fire, and give pats on the back all around for making it to where you are right now.