Move in Checklist by Canada Post

Canada Post Move in checklist 

Moving always brings mixed emotions – it can be both very exciting and stressful at the same time. To help, here are some useful tips that will help make your move efficient and trouble-free.

4 to 6 Weeks before moving

• Schedule your mail to be forwarded to your new address with Canada Post.
• Moving to a new home

2 to 3 Weeks before moving

• Get boxes and moving supplies
• Arrange phone service at your new home
• Take unwanted items to charity and/or dump
• Dispose of household chemicals properly (old paint, caustic cleaners, etc.). Take these to the local Toxic Waste Centre
• Arrange the return of any cable TV equipment
• Complete necessary change of address forms:
  • Drivers’ license, Health cards, Insurance
  • Employer, Doctor, Dentist
  • Magazine subscriptions and other mailings
  • Memberships, insurance
  • Bank accounts, credit cards, and tax office (Canada Revenue Agency)
• If necessary, do the following:
  • Make travel arrangements and reservations.
  • Arrange transfer of car insurance & license plates.
  • Notify kids’ schools, transfer records.
  • Register at new school.
  • Get copies of medical and dental records; if you have pets, get copies of veterinary records.

8 to 14 days before moving

• Return borrowed items.
• Arrange connection of utilities at new place.
• Retrieve loaned items
• Arrange disconnection of utilities at old place.
• Arrange for major appliances to be moved, if necessary
• Dispose of all flammable materials.

2 to 7 days before moving

• Determine what you can bring with you if travelling by car, plane, train, or bus.
• Pack a suitcase with the clothes and toiletries that you’ll need the first day in your new home.
• Prepare “installed items” that you’re bringing (TV antenna or shelves*).
• Pack a special box with other essentials you’ll need for the first few days and marks this box “Do Not Move”.

The day before moving

• Take down curtains and curtain rods.
• Pack your personal belongings, except your alarm clock, necessary clothes, jewellery and bedding
• Empty, defrost and clean refrigerator; clean the stove.
• Moving day!
• Keep paperwork accessible.
• Collect all keys; keep them in a safe place.
• Strip and dismantle beds.
• Clean premises that you are leaving, inspect with the landlord.
• Final walk-through: check all closets and cabinets
• If using a moving company, confirm the new address and delivery time with the driver
• If using a moving company, walk about with supervisor and sign inventory forms.
• Know how to reach your new landlord or superintendent.

After moving

Contact city/municipal offices to find out about garbage pick up, recycling facilities and local regulations and information.