Moving Checklist

To print this helpful “Moving Check List”please click 

More than 14 days before moving

  • Get boxes and moving supplies.
  • Arrange phone service at your new home.
  • Take unwanted items to charity and/or dump.
  • Set up mail-forward with Canada Post
  • 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:

If necessary, do the following:

  • Drivers’ license, Health cards, Insurance
  • Make travel arrangements and reservations.
  • Employer, Doctor, Dentist
  • Arrange transfer of car insurance & license plates.
  • Magazine subscriptions and other mailings
  • Notify kids’ schools, transfer records.
  • Memberships, insurance
  • Register at new school.
  • Bank accounts, credit cards, and tax office (Canada Customs and Revenue Agency)
  • 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.
  • 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.
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.

*Note: Ensure your lease permits the items that you plan to install in a new place. Some leases may not permit the installation of shelving screwed into walls or TV antennas.

Be sure to give proper notice; see the Provincial Fact Sheets for information on the notice required.