Whether moving into your first home or your third home, it is quite the event. From packing to moving, to unpacking, no one can deny that there is a lot of work involved in the moving process. It can often feel daunting, overwhelming, and intimidating. But the good news is that with some planning and preparation you can make your move with minimal hassle and headache! 

Step 1: Purge 

This is the time to clean house. Literally. Do not take anything with you that you no longer want and/or use. Donate or throw items out that you no longer want. Getting rid of items ahead of the move means packing, moving, and unpacking less stuff. Moving is a great time to evaluate all that you already do have. Take the time to go through all your belongings and let the purge begin. 

Step 2: Reserve Movers 

You’ll want to reserve movers a few months in advance to ensure you’ll be able to get someone for your moving date. This is especially critical if you’re planning on moving in the spring and summer months, as these tend to be the busiest time of year for moving. 

If you are deciding not to use movers and are getting the help of friends and family, you’ll want to ask enough in advance to give plenty of notice. Be sure to follow up closer to moving day with a friendly reminder and to mitigate no-shows on the big day. 

Step 3: Pack 

It can feel extremely overwhelming to pack up your entire existence into boxes. The best way to mitigate stress is to start the packing process as early as you can. While it may not be realistic to start packing away every-day items months in advance, you may want to consider lesser used items. Think things like holiday décor and seasonal items. Create a system to stay organized and on-track. Instead of thinking about every single thing that needs to get packed, tackle one room at a time. Bit by bit. Be sure to clearly label everything to make the unpacking process a little more seamless. 

Consider packing an “Open First” box. This box, as it is labelled, will be the box you open first when you get to your new place that will get you through that first night. A few fundamental items might include personal hygiene items, prescription medication, toilet paper, important electronics, and chargers, paper plates, some non-perishable food items, and pajamas and an extra set of clothes. Instead of adding to the moving truck with your other items, your “Open First” box should be kept in the same car as you.  

Step 4: Change Address 

Changing your address comes with the job of telling people you’ve changed your address. Below is a list of services that may need your new contact information. 

• Personal Contacts (friends/family)
• Healthcare professionals (doctor/dentist etc.)
• Various services (Internet/subscription programs etc.)
• Government services (health card/driver’s license) 

Other Considerations:

Moving yourself vs Hiring movers 

Considering and organizing how you will move in advance will go a long way in offering a smooth move. There’s pros and cons to each. Moving yourself and/or enlisting the help of family and friends is the cheaper option. However, hiring professional movers can save a lot of time and stress. Regardless of which option you choose make sure you get the move organized a couple months in advance. Whether that is calling and booking the moving company, arranging friends to help, or making sure you have the proper supplies (furniture straps, sliders, dollies, etc.).

Local vs Long Distance 

Are you moving within the same city or surrounding area? Or are you relocating somewhere further away? Be sure to consider the long distance fees and organize a moving company that offers this service. 

Specialty and larger items 

If you plan on moving any speciality or larger items, you’ll want to make sure that the moving company you’re using is equipped for these items. Or if you’re planning on moving yourself, you’ll want to make sure you have adequate transportation for these items. Think of things like a pool table, large piano, oversized furniture, etc. Be sure to check in with the moving company on their definition and requirements of heavy/specialty items, as it may require more movers or have an additional cost. 

Moving insurance 

Moving insurance covers any loss or damage to your possessions during a move. Moving insurance can offer a peace of mind during this transitional time and is often worth looking into. Check your homeowner’s insurance or bank to see what you’re covered for. Most moving companies will also offer a basic insurance option. 

Time of year 

While there are lots of factors to take into consideration on when you do move, consider the time of year you’re moving and what that might mean. The most popular time to move is spring and summer. Meaning that movers may be harder to book/book up quicker. If it's an option, you may want to consider moving between September – April when there is less of a demand and rates may not be as high. 

Cleaning 

Organizing a service to come in and give your place a clean will minimize stress and an item from the to-do list. Be sure to organize this in advance so you’re not scrambling last minute. 

Moving from a house to a condo?

Downsize before you go

When you move from a house to a condo you are typically downsizing your square footage, meaning you won’t have as much room or storage. Downsizing before you make the move will be extremely beneficial and save a ton of hassle once you arrive to your new condo.  

Don’t forget to book the elevator

Make sure on moving day you have an elevator reserved. This will be particular helpful when it comes to larger or heavier items. Be sure to check out what the process is to have an elevator reserved and be sure to book in advance. 

Learn the condo rules ahead of time

Don’t wait until you’re moved in to learn the rules of the condo. Get comfortable with the rules before you even move into the building. Are you allowed to have a BBQ? Can you hang things off of your balcony? Knowing the ins and the outs of the condo before moving in is going to a) help in the downsizing process and b) let you move in with confidence. 

Schedule service hook ups 

Once you know what day you’re moving into your new place call your service providers and arrange a time for any essential services to be hooked up shortly following your move. Something as little as already having your wi-fi set up early on in the move will not only minimize stress but help the moving process.