Moving to a new city, neighbourhood, or home can be overwhelming, but it’s also a chance for a fresh start. We know how stressful moving can be, so we’ve created the ultimate moving checklist to help you organize and plan without any hassle.
You might wonder why you need a checklist. “I can just handle things as they come,” you might say. But a checklist will make your move smoother, less stressful, and more enjoyable. Here’s our recommended ultimate moving checklist:
1. Plan Ahead
Research Moving Companies or Truck Rentals
It’s important to compare prices, read reviews, and book early! Booking a moving company before their busy schedule is especially important during peak moving seasons such as summer.
Create a Moving Budget
It’s essential to account for all potential expenses like packing supplies, movers, transportation, etc.
Set a Moving Date
Choose a date and inform all relevant parties (landlord, utility companies, etc.). Choosing a moving date will also help keep you accountable and organized so that you can be prepared for moving day.
2. Organize Your Belongings
Declutter
We know this can be tenacious, but it needs to get done. It’s the best time to go through those old books you’ll never read or that pot you hate to use but feel the need to cling onto. We recommend sorting through your items and deciding what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. Trust us, you’ll feel better at the end—plus, there will be more space in your new home and fewer items to carry during the move.
Inventory
Make a detailed list of your possessions, noting any valuable or fragile items. Sometimes, things can get misplaced or damaged during a move, so this is especially important if you have many items (and valuable ones, for that matter).
Pack an Essentials Box
Include items you’ll need immediately upon arrival (clothes, toiletries, important documents, etc.). This great tip will save you from scouring the boxes for daily necessities.
3. Gather Packing Supplies
- Boxes
- Packing Tape
- Bubble Wrap/Packing Paper
- Labels and Markers
- Furniture Covers
4. Notify Important Parties
Change of Address
This is one of the many tasks always avoided until the last minute. But it’s IMPORTANT. Notify the post office, banks, subscription services, and other important entities. It’ll save you stress if you do it before you even start to pack.
Utilities
Arrange for disconnection at your old home and connection at your new one (electricity, water, gas, internet).
School Transfers
If applicable, ensure all necessary paperwork is completed for school transfers.
5. Pack Smart
Pack items from one room at a time to stay organized.
Clearly mark each box with its contents and the room it belongs to.
Use bubble wrap, packing paper, and proper padding.
This will make them easier to carry.
This will maximize space and balance the load.
6. Prepare Your New Home
Clean Before Moving In
Deep clean or hire a cleaning service. If you’re moving into an Avana suite, this is already done for you!
Make Any Necessary Repairs
Handle repairs or maintenance tasks before your belongings arrive. Again, all maintenance and necessary repairs are done at an Avana suite before your move-in!
Plan the Layout
Decide where furniture and major items will go.
7. Moving Day Preparation
Pack a Moving Day Kit
Include snacks, water, medications, and necessary tools.
Confirm Arrangements
Check-in with your moving company or helpers to ensure everyone is on schedule. If you are moving into an apartment, this is where you can also confirm that the elevator is booked for your move.
Final Walkthrough
Do a last check of your old home to ensure nothing is left behind.
8. Moving In
Supervise Unloading
Direct movers or helpers where to place boxes and furniture.
Check Inventory
Make sure all items have arrived safely.
Unpack Essentials First
Start with your essentials box and immediate necessities.
Install and Connect Utilities
Ensure all utilities and services are running.
9. Settling In
Unpack Room by Room
Tackle one room at a time to stay organized.
Update Records
Ensure your address is updated with all necessary entities.
Explore Your New Area
Get to know your new neighbourhood and local amenities. With Avana, we have community pages on our websites with lists of amenities and nearby restaurants!
10. Final Checks
Dispose of Packing Materials
Recycle or dispose of boxes and materials properly.
Review Moving Services
Leave reviews for your moving company or any services used.
Celebrate Your New Home
Take a moment to relax and enjoy your new space. You truly do deserve it.
We hope this checklist helps you have a successful move. If you’re considering moving, check out our current listings to find your perfect home.
