The Complete Moving Checklist

Finding a new home is an exciting time. From redecorating with fresh fashions to exploring new neighbourhood spots, starting over in a different place can be inspiring. But, it can also be quite stressful. All the planning, packing and change is enough to overwhelm anyone.

Before the big day arrives, write up a moving checklist with all the to-dos you need to accomplish. Whether it’s sorting through a pile of old clothes or making dreaded phone calls, the earlier you cross tasks off your list, the better you’ll feel.

To boost your motivation, we’ve rounded up our top nine moving tips. Follow our advice, and you’ll be well on your way to a smooth and seamless start in your new home. 

Two months before the move

1. Find the right moving company

Spare your friends and family the headache and search for accredited movers in your city. Vet a variety of reviews on Google, Better Business Bureau and Facebook. Then, get written quotes from at least three companies. Ask plenty of questions: Can they provide a breakdown of costs? How many workers will be present? Do they offer moving insurance? Once you’ve picked the best team for the job, get confirmation in writing.

2. Sell, donate or store unneeded items

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

3. Research your neighbourhood

Is your new community in a different part of town, or in a whole other city? Ease your jitters by looking up malls, banks, grocery stores, doctors and dentists in your area. If you can, take a stroll around the block to familiarize yourself with your surroundings.

One month before the move

4. Buy packing supplies

Stock up on a variety of boxes, tape, box cutters, labels, and markers. At U•STORE•IT, we offer specialty packing supplies, such as moving blankets and dish-guard kits, to protect your belongings. To avoid any surprises on the big day, buy more boxes than you think you’ll need.

5. Change your address

Share your new details with your employer, insurance company, bank and magazine subscriptions. Visit your local registry to update your license and vehicle registration. If you’re worried about missing important letters, sign up for mail forwarding with Canada Post.

6. Start packing

Begin with infrequently used odds and ends, like Christmas decorations or relics from the attic and basement. Label and colour-code boxes with the name of the room where they belong, and then create an inventory to keep track of everything. 

One to two weeks before the move

7. Switch over your utilities

Let the gas, electric, water, internet and cable companies know you’ll be moving. They can help you schedule shut-offs at your old place and set up utilities at your new home. Your phone bill will thank you for the wifi connection later. 

8. Keep packing

Complete a little bit every day, focusing on one room at a time. Be sure to pack a separate box for valuables, jewelry and important documents, so you can safely move it yourself. Have each family member stock a suitcase for essentials, like clothes, toiletries and snacks, to tide you over for the first few days after the move.

9. Tidy up your space

Ace your final walk-through so you can pocket that security deposit. As you pack up furniture, dust, vacuum the rug, mop the floors and scrub out the oven. If your fridge and freezer are coming with you, be sure to unplug them at least 24 hours before the move to allow them to defrost.

Once moving day is here, give yourself a pat on the back. You survived a big change and you’re ready to welcome a wonderful new phase in your life.

10. Leverage a storage Unit

While you’re packing, consider renting a self-storage unit to keep your excess possessions organized. We offer convenient self-storage facilities located in North Edmonton, West Edmonton, South Edmonton, St. Albert, and Red Deer. We offer spacious units, 24-hour surveillance, climate-controlled bays and helpful staff. 

Be sure to explore our residential storage options and contact us to get pricing today.