At RE/MAX All Points Realty we want to ensure you have the best resources for a successful move. Our objective is to guide you through a quick and economic move, while making sure you do not miss a thing.

Step 1: Early Preparation

Do a complete cleaning of your current home. Use this opportunity to throw away any accumulated junk and pack a few items that you rarely use. Make a list of large appliances and furniture you will need to move. This will help you prepare for the size of moving truck you will need or get a proper estimate from a moving company. Determine if you need to rent a storage space or donate items that will not fit in your new space. Have a plan on how to make this day fun for the kids or have them busy with a friend or family member. Lastly, find someone to take care of your animal(s) on moving day. It is a stressful experience for your best friend!

Step 2: Book Your Move

Book your movers or truck well in advance. If you are moving into a Strata be sure you have arranged the move with the management company to comply with any rules the strata may have in place. Look for on line reviews or ratings like BBB ratings, Google and Facebook reviews. Make sure the mover is an actual pro! Compare at least three prices. You may be surprised by the difference from one company to another. Make sure the estimate is comprehensive and realistic considering what you need to move. Some movers may quote a cheap price and charge extra on the moving date. Ask how many movers will assist you.

Step 3: Supplies For Your Move

You may need a variety of supplies. Blankets, boxes, totes, tape, bubble wrap, markers, even moving straps. You may need a dolly or rolling platform too. Cleaning supplies are good to have ready to clean up once everything is out of the home as well as any supplies needed to patch or touch up paint the walls.

Step 4: Getting Ready to Move

Consider what is coming with you and consider selling what is not. You can easily sell used items on places like Facebook or craigslist. Mark your boxes with the content inside. This will ensure organization for you when unpacking. Take photos or videos of every complex electronic connection, such as your stereo, TV and home computer. Do the same for your washing machine, dishwasher, and other appliances. It will avoid headaches and uncertainties when reconnecting them. It is easy to misplace documents such as passports, optical records, insurance coverage and such when moving. Place everything at risk in the same box and scan important documents if possible.  Clean the house for the new occupants — it is common courtesy.

Step 5: Move Service Providers and Change of Address

Call internet, TV and home phone providers and book installation in advance. Cancel your old account if you wish to switch providers. Inform your utility provider of your move. Get a few quotes for home insurance and ensure it is in place prior to the completion of your home purchase or sale. Compare prices for security systems or transfer your current provider and book an installation. Inform your kid’s school of your move. Inform your employer or the HR department at work. They’ll adjust it on your file and work insurance. Inform your bank, credit cards and investment brokers. Change your address on your driver’s license. Worried you are still forgetting something? Forward your mail with Canada Post. If you don’t buy the mail forwarding service from Canada Post, you don’t have to inform the post office of your new address.

Step 6: Moving Day!

Start early. It’s best to allow time for unplanned events. Leave the key as planned with your previous landlord or Realtor. Tip the movers. Have snacks and water handy.