Moving Tips

Clean out your closets, cupboards, toy chests, shelves, attic, garage and basement. It is a good idea to discard anything you do not want or need. A rule of thumb is if you did not use something in the last year or two, chances are you do not really need it.
Arrange to collect any advance or security deposits on utilities or rentals.
Evaluate whether to ship your appliances and old furniture.
Make a complete list of items to be moved. Decide which plants will come with you and which will stay behind.
Use up your food. Frozen foods can not be shipped safely.
Notify the security company and all other regular service providers such as lawn or snow removal companies of your moving date.
Notify your post office, subscription publications, and other correspondents of your moving date and provide them with your new address.
Check your homeowner's insurance and make arrangements to renew your policy.
Consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's travel needs and make the necessary preparations

Discontinue newspaper delivery, sanitation and any other regular services.
Make sure to check fitness club, school or gymnasium lockers for stored belongings.
Ask your friends or your current doctors for referrals in the new location.
Check the contents of your safety-deposit box. It is advisable to carry all valuables with you.
DO NOT SHIP combustible or flammable items such as oil-base paint, bleach, cleaning and lighting fluids, matches, ammunition and aerosol cans, including hair sprays, shaving creams, deodorants and household cleaners.

Keep detailed records and receipts of all your moving expenses. Canada Revenue Agency allows you to claim these expenses on your income tax as long as you are moving farther than 40km.
Prepare your children for the move by encouraging them to prepare their own special treasure box with toys, games and snacks for the trip.
Defrost and clean your fridge and freezer at least a day before the move.
Remove snow and ice from sidewalks, driveways and steps.
Put linens and pillows in dresser drawers to have handy for making up your beds the first night.
Keep your telephone connected throughout your moving day.

If you ordered a packing crew, it will usually arrive the day before loading. Make sure to stay at home and supervise the packing. Pack all valuables you want to take with you by yourself.
Make sure fragile items receive special attention. Label each box with the contents and location in the new home.
Collect all house keys and arrange to leave them with the new owners, your real estate agent or landlord. You may want to notify the police if your home will be unoccupied for some time.
Notify a close friend or relative of your itinerary in case of an emergency.

Compare the mover's inventory with your records and make sure you agree on the condition of your household goods. You may want to take photographs incase a dispute arises. Make sure you get a copy of the inventory list.
Give a last minute check to every room and closet before the van leaves. Make sure the water, furnace and air conditioner are shut off, windows are shut and locked, and the lights are switched off.
Check the Bill of Lading for accuracy and completeness before you sign it. Keep a copy for your records.
Make sure you have the van driver's name and contact information, and give him contact numbers at the destination. Confirm directions to your new home with your driver.
Turn off the water heater.

Be at your new home before the movers.
Contact utility companies to verify service start dates.
Check the appliances, furnace and hot-water heater.
Place a floor plan of your new home by the entrance, so the movers know where to place each piece of furniture.
Check the condition of each box or household item as it is unloaded. Make a list of all missing or damaged items on the mover's copy of the inventory form.
To prevent possible damage, television sets, other electronic equipment and major appliances should not be used before they have a chance to adjust to room temperature.
Call Canada Post to find out if they are holding any mail for you and ask the services to start.

Obtain necessary IDs such as driver's license, health card, etc.
Register your car at the new address. Most provinces allow 90 days grace period.
Contact newspapers and other services for home delivery.
Walk in your neighborhood to get a good idea what is around and where to find things.
Check opening and closing hours of stores and service facilities.
Consult an attorney about any local laws that might be different from your previous residence. These will affect your family as soon as your new residence is established.
Register to vote.

Don’t choose the cheapest company you see in the telephone directory — cheapest doesn’t necessarily mean the best.
Ask friends and relatives for moving company recommendations.
Call at least three moving companies to set up estimate appointments.
Ask for references and check them.
Choose a local moving company, if possible.
A reputable mover will want to inspect your furnishings to help prepare a quote. Don’t deal with a moving company that says the inspection isn’t necessary or wants to provide a quote over the telephone.
If your move involves the storage of goods, go to the storage facility and check it. If the company doesn’t want you to see its operation, hire someone else.
Find out who’s responsible for loss or damage.
Determine fair insurance value for irreplaceable items.
Find out if your household insurance already includes coverage for goods in the event of an accident happening while they are being moved.
Contact your insurance agent or broker and inquire about purchasing extra coverage.
Ask the movers if they offer liability coverage. Be aware that many company plans won’t cover your articles if you’ve packed them yourself.

Karina Perri - Sales Representative