Prepare For A Move

Moving can be one of the most stressful life events. Sometimes the littlest bit of organization can go a long way. We've put together some of the bigger things you'll need to do to help your move run smoothly.

Start collecting boxes – you can buy boxes from moving companies or for a more cost-effective option, you can ask your local retailers or grocery stores if they can put some boxes aside for you. They generally put boxes in that big crushing machine anyways so why not! Also, some people that have recently moved try to sell or give away their boxes once they’ve unpacked so make sure you check out your local classifieds like Kijiji.

Make the plans for the actual move – will you be using a moving company? Will you be renting a moving truck? Or will you be using your friends and family for their trucks and muscles? Whichever way you choose, call around to get quotes, and give your friends a heads up if you’re wanting their help. 

Once you’ve collected your quotes, it’s time for everyone’s favourite part – budgeting! Just kidding.  No one likes it. But it sure makes life easier when planning and avoiding unexpected expenses. Make sure you budget for any and every moving expense you’ll face, no matter how insignificant it may be - it's the little things that add up.

Get the official transitioning going. This includes medical, dental and financial info, including referrals for a doctor and dentist in your new area. If you have children and pets, make sure you get those records too.

Begin parting with items you don’t want or need to bring to your new home. Organize your stuff into groups: stuff you’re taking, selling, donating, or tossing. Post items you want to sell in local classifieds like online buy and sell groups, Kijiji, craigslist, etc. You could also plan a garage sale or moving sale. It takes some time to organize and price everything, but it’s a great way to get rid of stuff in one fell swoop. 

Start packing things you won't be using until after the move. Although you may like your book collection, the odds of you reading the entire Hunger Games trilogy for the 4th time before you move isn’t likely. Pack them! If it's summertime, you probably won’t be using your winter gear. Pack it! It’ll make your life less stressful if you do little bits over a long stretch of time.

More official services like your electric, gas, water, etc will need to be informed of your moving plans – for both the home you’re leaving and the home you’re moving to. On the less official scale, places like your gym, or anywhere you may have a membership will need to know you’re shipping off.
Don’t forget to change your licence, insurance, and passport information. Also, have your mail forwarded to your new address. You don’t want to miss anything important or have the new homeowners getting your mail.



Finally, try your best to have fun during this crazy, hectic, but thrilling adventure. Good luck!