Moving soon? Here is What to do and When to do it

Moving into a new home is an exciting time but it can also be stressful. Whether you’re doing it yourself, asking friends for a little help or hiring professionals, here is your moving guide to help get you through it.

First thing:

• Start early. Investigate and research moving companies and/or truck rental companies.
• Hire a moving company or if you’re doing it yourself, reserve a moving truck. Be sure to get written confirmation of all your costs and details of your move for your records.
  TIP:Weekends and holiday long weekends are busy times for movers and truck rental companies. Book far in advance (at least 2 to 3 months) to ensure you get a moving truck for the day you need to move.

Second Stage:

• No sense moving what you don’t want to keep. Go through your home and determine what you want to keep and what you want to throw out or donate.
  TIP:If moving in spring or summer, earn some extra cash and hold a moving sale to help get rid of items you don’t need or want for your new space.
• Make a list of items in your home that need extra attention while moving or special packing instructions (i.e. computers, televisions, fine china, etc.)
• If you have children and you are moving to a new school district, start arranging the school transferring process.
• Order boxes and moving supplies (packing tape, bubble wrap, tissue paper, etc.) required for your move.

1 Month Before Moving Day:

• Time to start packing! To make it easier, begin with the items in your home you do notuse regularly. Be sure to clearly label or number your boxes to make the unpacking easier.
• As you pack, make note of items of significant value (i.e. stereo systems, flat screen televisions). Depending on your insurance agreement with your moving company, you will need to declare items of value in case items are lost or damaged.
• At your local postal office, fill out a change of address form with your new address.
• Inform the following companies and institutions about your new address:
  Banks, Cable and phone providers, Insurance companies,
  Hydro and utility companies, Credit card companies, Doctor and dentist offices, Any subscriptions you may have
  TIP: Conveniently Change address information online where possible.