Planning Your Move Like a Pro
If there’s one thing most Canadians agree on, it’s that moving isn’t exactly a walk in the park. Whether you’re moving across town, across provinces, or even across the border, there’s always a mountain of logistics, paperwork, and packing to handle. But with the right planning, you can go from stressed-out to cool, calm, and collected.
Planning your move like a pro isn’t about having endless free time or military-level organization—it’s about knowing the right steps, preparing early, and making smart decisions that save you time, money, and headaches. Here’s a guide to help you do just that.
Step 1: Start With a Timeline
One of the biggest mistakes people make is underestimating how long moving prep takes. It’s not something you want to leave until the week before.
8 weeks out: Start decluttering and researching movers.
6 weeks out: Gather packing supplies and begin packing off-season or rarely used items.
4 weeks out: Finalize moving company booking and confirm details in writing.
2 weeks out: Notify utilities, change your address, and pack non-essentials.
1 week out: Pack essentials, clean, and prepare a first-night box.
💡 Pro tip: Build extra time into your schedule. Life happens—snowstorms, work deadlines, or a child’s hockey tournament can throw off your moving prep.
Step 2: Declutter Before You Pack
Packing is already time-consuming—don’t make it worse by moving things you don’t need. Canadians moving from one place to another often realize just how much stuff has been sitting unused in basements, garages, or closets.
Donate gently used clothes, furniture, or kitchen items.
Sell items online through Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, or a garage sale.
Recycle or safely dispose of broken or unusable items.
Not only will you lighten your load, but you’ll also cut down on moving costs. Many moving companies charge based on weight or time—less stuff equals less money spent.
Step 3: Research and Book Movers Early
Good movers book up fast, especially in busy Canadian moving seasons like June and July. Waiting too long could leave you scrambling or paying higher rates.
When comparing companies:
Check reviews and ask for referrals.
Confirm they’re licensed and insured.
Get written estimates with clear breakdowns of fees.
Ask about extras like packing services, supplies, or storage options.
💡 Pro tip: If your move date is flexible, ask movers about discounted days—mid-week or mid-month rates are often lower than weekends or month-end.
Step 4: Create a Packing System
Packing doesn’t need to feel like chaos. A good system helps you stay organized and makes unpacking so much easier.
Room-by-room method: Focus on one room at a time to avoid scattered boxes.
Label everything: Write the room name and a summary of contents on each box. Colour-coded tape or stickers can help.
Fragile items: Use bubble wrap, towels, or blankets for added protection.
Essentials box: Pack things you’ll need right away—like toiletries, chargers, bedding, and coffee supplies.
💡 Pro tip: Keep important documents (passports, health cards, school records) with you instead of packing them in the moving truck.
Step 5: Stay on Top of Address Changes
In the middle of all the packing, it’s easy to forget the administrative side of moving. But updating your address is crucial to avoid missed bills, delayed mail, or service interruptions.
Update with Canada Post and set up mail forwarding.
Notify your bank, credit card companies, and insurance providers.
Update subscriptions and online shopping accounts.
Don’t forget the CRA, Service Canada, or your driver’s licence.
💡 Pro tip: Create a checklist of all organizations you need to notify and check them off as you go.
Step 6: Manage Utilities and Services
Imagine walking into your new home, ready to relax, only to realize there’s no power or internet. Avoid this headache by arranging your services ahead of time:
Book hydro, gas, and water shutoff/activation dates.
Schedule internet, cable, and phone installation.
Transfer or cancel home security systems.
Arrange garbage/recycling pickup if it differs in your new city.
Step 7: Prepare for Canadian Weather
Let’s face it—our climate can make moving tricky. From icy sidewalks to scorching heat waves, you need to plan for whatever Mother Nature has in store.
Winter moves: Clear snow and ice, have salt on hand, and dress in layers.
Summer moves: Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and move during cooler parts of the day.
Rainy days: Use tarps and plastic wrap to protect furniture and electronics.
Step 8: Make a Moving Day Plan
Moving day can feel like organized chaos. Having a clear plan ensures everything runs smoothly.
Confirm mover arrival time and exchange contact info.
Have cash on hand for tips or unexpected expenses.
Designate a “moving supervisor” (even if it’s you) to direct movers and answer questions.
Keep pets and young children safe and out of the way—consider arranging care for the day.
Step 9: Don’t Skip Cleaning
Before leaving your old place, do a final clean. Not only is it good etiquette, but for renters, it can be the difference between getting your damage deposit back or not.
Wipe down counters, cupboards, and baseboards.
Vacuum and mop floors.
Clean appliances inside and out.
Don’t forget spots like behind doors or under furniture.
Step 10: Take Care of Yourself
Moving is physically and mentally draining. Pro movers know the importance of pacing yourself.
Stay hydrated and keep snacks handy.
Take breaks—don’t push until you’re exhausted.
Ask for help from family or friends when needed.
Plan something relaxing for the evening after moving—pizza delivery and a movie, anyone?
Bonus: Celebrate the Fresh Start
Yes, moving is stressful. But it’s also exciting—a chance to start fresh, create new routines, and explore a new neighbourhood.
Once the boxes are in, take a moment to appreciate the accomplishment. Order takeout from a local restaurant, walk around your new block, or raise a toast to the adventure ahead.
Final Thoughts
Planning your move like a pro isn’t about perfection—it’s about preparation. By giving yourself enough time, staying organized, and tackling one step at a time, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother, less stressful experience.
Remember:
Start early.
Declutter before packing.
Book movers well in advance.
Stay on top of logistics like address changes and utilities.
Don’t forget to care for yourself along the way.
With these strategies, your move won’t just be manageable—it might even feel rewarding. After all, it’s not just about getting from Point A to Point B—it’s about starting the next chapter of your life with confidence.
