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Planning

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Consider your moving options

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Find storage near you

You’re going to need lots of [supplies](https://movebuddy.com/shop). Probably more than you think. Since you’ll save money by buying in bulk, it’s best to grab them all at once rather than buying as you need.

![Side Peak - Get boxes and packing supplies.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Get_boxes_and_packing_supplies_e89420213e.svg)

Investing in quality packing supplies like sturdy moving boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape is crucial for protecting your belongings during a move. 

Learn more tips from the pros:
- [Packing Supply Essentials](/post/packing-supply-essentials)
- [How Many Boxes?](/post/how-many-boxes-do-i-need-for-a-move)

Get boxes and packing supplies

To avoid problems, late payments or disruption of services, it’s important to make sure that your new contact information has been provided to anyone that may need to contact you. 

![Side Peak -  Change your address.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Change_your_address_4a09f3a6c8.svg)

Changing all your contact information can be a real pain. Use our [change your address](/change-my-address) tool to make this job easier.

Visit our [address checklist](/posts/checklist-for-updating-your-address-while-moving) for additional helpful tips. 








Change your address

Often, some minor repairs to your home will be required before the sale can be closed, or to obtain the return of a rental security deposit. 

![Mr Handyman.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Mr_Handyman_e8dfb8f09b.svg)

Deciding whether to hire a professional or tackle minor repairs yourself can be a common dilemma. It boils down to a few key considerations:
- How complex is the problem?
- Know yourself - assess your skill level as a DIY'er, 
- Do you have the time?
 
 For crucial tasks or if you lack experience, [professional help](post/talk-about-renovations) may be the wiser choice to avoid complications. For more insights from our pros, read our [renovations blog](learning-centre/renovation).


Fix minor home issues

Moving to a new home means you may need to locate many types of different providers from medical professionals to new schools to insurance companies.

![Side Peak -  Locate new services.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Locate_new_services_d9604538fe.svg)

- Moving can be stressful, especially for children. Make their schooling arrangements as soon as possible.
- If you are moving to a new region, you will need to find new doctors, dentists, optometrists, etc. Ask your current medical professionals for a referral, if possible.

Locate new services

Get Organized

Moving provides you a great opportunity to declutter and simplify. Instead of moving unwanted items to your new location, organize them into three piles: sell, donate, and recycle/trash. 

![Side Peak -  Declutter your home (4).svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Declutter_your_home_4_9e4969caba.svg)

When you [declutter](https://movebuddy.com/post/declutter-your-home-for-a-better-move) before moving, estimating just how much stuff you’ll have to pack and where it’ll go in your new home becomes easier.

Sell or recycle items that won’t be making the trip. Better yet, donate them to a local charity.

Not ready to to let it go yet? Renting a [storage unit ](/post/find-extra-space) for now may be your solution.




Declutter your home

Packing is one of the heaviest lifts - pun intended - of your move. It's important to have a well thought out plan.

![Side Peak - Packing.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Packing_ee1480550f.svg)

Here are some moving tips and helpful the links. 

- Learn the best order to pack your home [Packing 101](/post/the-best-order-to-pack-your-home)
- Get ahead of things by packing any non-essentials
- [Stop breakage](/post/stop-breakage-when-moving-by-packing-right) by packing the smart way

Visit our [Packing Blog](/learning-centre/packing) for more pro insights

Packing

Gathering your key documents before a move creates a hassle-free transition and maintains your peace of mind. Vital records such as identification, financial documents, medical records, and legal papers must be organized and kept readily accessible throughout the moving process. 

![Side Peak -   Gather important documents.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Gather_important_documents_c51e6d1ba8.svg)

Here's a helpful checklist of documents you should take care of when you plan your move:
- Passports, visas & social insurance cards
- Birth, marriage and divorce certificates
- Financial and medical records 
- Wills and estate documents
- Property deeds, titles and legal contracts
- Passwords and PINs

For more information, read critical documents [part 1](post/checklist-for-critical-documents-required-when-moving) and [part 2](post/moving-documents).

Gather important documents

Simply take photos of items that will require special care during the move and provide your movers with the photos so that they know how to handle those items.

![Side Peak -  Take pictures of special care items.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Take_pictures_of_special_care_items_7f473cc711.svg)

Moving [fragile and valuable items](post/stop-breakage-when-moving-by-packing-right) demands extra care and precaution. Start by creating a detailed inventory of each item, including photographs and descriptions. 

For more detailed information and pro packing hacks, check out:
- [Cherished belongings](post/how-to-properly-store-and-protect-your-items)
- [Glass and china](post/how-to-pack-your-glass-and-china)
- [Lamps](post/how-to-pack-lamps)
- [Electronics](post/how-to-pack-electronics)

Take pictures of special care items

Key essentials

The first night after the move is going to be tough. 

You are tired and a bit disoriented. Make it easier on yourself by having everything that you will need all in one place. Pack a box with those first day requirements.

![Side Peak -  Pack an essentials box.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Pack_an_essentials_box_05b87d9536.svg)

When moving, even the best planners may not have all of their needed items at their finger tips. So pack an ["essentials" box](https://movebuddy.com/post/be-prepared-how-to-pack-and-unpack-an-essentials-moving-box). This will be the first thing you unpack at your new home. 

Pro tips:
- This box should contain items you'll need immediately, like toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, important documents, phone chargers, and some basic kitchenware. 
- Label this box clearly, so it's easily accessible upon arrival at your new place.


Pack an essentials box

Aside from having a digital folder to store moving-related documents, you should also create a folder where you can keep receipts and bills that could be tax deductible. 

![Side Peak - Create a folder for bills and receipts.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Create_a_folder_for_bills_and_receipts_d13ef685a4.svg)

You can check with the CRA to see if you can deduct moving expenses from your tax return. Check out these helpful links:
- [Claiming moving expenses](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/about-your-tax-return/tax-return/completing-a-tax-return/deductions-credits-expenses/line-21900-moving-expenses/you-claim-moving-expenses-6.html)
- [Eligible moving expenses](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/about-your-tax-return/tax-return/completing-a-tax-return/deductions-credits-expenses/line-21900-moving-expenses/line-21900-expenses-you-deduct.html)
- [Ineligible moving expenses](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/about-your-tax-return/tax-return/completing-a-tax-return/deductions-credits-expenses/line-21900-moving-expenses/line-21900-expenses-you-cannot-deduct.html/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/about-your-tax-return/tax-return/completing-a-tax-return/deductions-credits-expenses/line-21900-moving-expenses/line-21900-expenses-you-cannot-deduct.html)

Create a folder for bills and receipts

If you have deliveries that won’t arrive on time, have them forwarded to your new address.

![Side Peak - Cancel or redirect deliveries.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Cancel_or_redirect_deliveries_e0a5357aae.svg)

If you're shopping online, make sure that you update your address to show your new one. 

Update your Amazon account or any other store that delivers to you regularly before you move.



Cancel or redirect deliveries

Don’t be a dud. Treat the next owner or tenant the way that you would want to be treated.  Make sure your old place is in good condition before the landlord comes.

![Side Peak - Prepare for a final walkthrough.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Prepare_for_a_final_walkthrough_419003ddbe.svg)

If moving from a rental, complete a final walk through with your landlord. It’s not about trust, it’s just communication. 

**Some steps to take to avoid problems:** 
- Attend the final walkthrough with the property manager, discussing any concerns or discrepancies and document the property's condition with photos before you leave.
- Deep clean the entire space, paying attention to often-neglected areas like baseboards and appliances. 
- Repair any damages, such as holes in walls or broken fixtures, before the move-out inspection. 
- Ensure all rent and utility bills are paid in full. 



Prepare for a final walkthrough

As you approach moving day, there are a lot of small tasks that often get forgotten. But we're here to help.

![Side Peak - Often forgotten but important.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Often_forgotten_but_important_fe124b929c.svg)
- Don't let your food go to waste
- Take time to make sure that any items you’ve borrowed are returned to their owners. return borrowed items
- Take photos of your empty place
- Dispose of [hazardous materials](post/hazardous-material-disposal)
- Plan kids play date
- Ensure your critical prescriptions are filled
- Request time off
- Redirect schedule deliveries 
- [Forward your mail](https://www.canadapost-postescanada.ca/cpc/en/personal/receiving/manage-mail/mail-forwarding.page?ecid=sem_102&ecid=sem_pdn_ap_109&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA35urBhDCARIsAOU7QwlYWC5ITVwsjkrWCJwrbC6_i1FvGTGSbo8eyxzD_oHsRPq6io0dikYaAlExEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds)

Often forgotten but important

Move day

Whether you’ve hired professionals or are bribing your friends with pizza and beer, you’re now the project manager for the safe transportation of your stuff. Just think. You have permission to order people around! Kidding. Sort of. 


![Side Peak - Coordinate the moving team.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Coordinate_the_moving_team_afb675ef58.svg)

Being present at your new home to observe and direct movers is vital to ensuring a successful and stress-free move.  
 
Find additional information below:
- Ensure there is adequate parking for your moving team
- Be clear with your movers where each item should go as soon as they arrive at your new place
- Create a [floor plan for your new home](/post/how-to-create-a-floor-plan-for-your-new-home) 

Coordinate the moving team

Taking some precautions is essential to ensure you complete your move without causing injury to yourself or those around you.

![Side Peak - Stay safe.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Stay_safe_93f7cc27ef.svg)

Learn some important [tips](post/tips-to-prevent-moving-day-injuries) to prevent moving day injuries.

Stay safe

Remember that essentials box you packed? The one that contains the important kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom items?

Start unpacking here and you'll be the hero of the family.

![Side Peak - Unpack the essentials.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Unpack_the_essentials_d9dda28b49.svg)

Remember, the [essentials box](https://movebuddy.com/post/be-prepared-how-to-pack-and-unpack-an-essentials-moving-box) you packed? Now is when it comes in handy!

Unpack that box first, then move on to your bedroom and toiletries. After moving around all those boxes, you want to take a bath and a nap.

Unpack the essentials

The day has come it should be a breeze if you’ve done most of the tasks on your checklist. However, there are a few items you'll want to be prepared for.

![Side Peak - The little things.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_The_little_things_188a776c21.svg)

Our experts have some key items often overlooked by the average moving household:
- [Protect your floors and carpets](post/safeguarding-your-floors-and-carpets) during your move
- Have cash for tipping your movers
- Remind your neighbors if you're going to be blocking a shared driveway
- Have snacks and drinks for your family and helpers


The little things

Even though you are vacating the space, you will still be responsible for any problems until the new tenant or owner moves in. So, close the windows, turn off all the lights, and lock the doors behind you.

![Side Peak - Lock up shop.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Lock_up_shop_75b9b78ad0.svg)

The last thing to do when moving out of a house is the final walkthrough and cleaning:
- Inspect every room to ensure you haven't left anything behind
- Check for any damage or issues that may need addressing before handing over the keys
- Perform a thorough cleaning of the entire property 
- Finally, return all keys, complete any necessary paperwork, and officially vacate the property

Lock up shop

Settle into your home

Although doing a deep clean might be the last thing that you want to do after the move, it’s important. You will want a fresh start in your new space.

![cleaning.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/cleaning_5c91db8511.svg)

Yes, we know you are tired. It was a long day moving. Still, you gotta do it. You’ll thank yourself for it.  

- Set the foundation for a fresh and welcoming living environment by cleaning now. 
- Preparing your new space with a clean slate guarantees that your belongings are placed in a pristine setting, free from dust, dirt, and allergens.  
- Begin by decluttering each room, disposing of items you no longer need. 
- If you are looking to take a few steps off your project list, you may wish to hire a cleaning service.  

Clean before unpacking 

With unpacking, it can be easy to procrastinate. Once the essentials are accessible, you can go weeks without dealing with the rest of the items. 

Set a deadline to unpack. Then stick to it. The faster you get it done, the quicker you can truly enjoy your new space.



![Side Peak - Unpack everything.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Unpack_everything_23d05f541f.svg)

Unpacking can be a daunting task. Here are some tips to help you save time. 

- Begin by creating a systematic unpacking plan
- Focus on one room at a time
- Carefully unpack fragile items, checking for signs of breakage
- Cross-reference the delivered boxes with your inventory list to ensure everything has arrived



Unpack everything

Even if you trust the previous owner or tenant, you can’t know how many copies of the house keys were made. 

It’s safer to change the locks.

![Side Peak - Change your locks.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Change_your_locks_2bf8a97711.svg)

By changing your locks when you first move into your home, you eliminate potential security risks and regain control over access to your property.  Here's a couple things to consider:
- Replace not only the front and back door locks but also any additional entry points such as basement doors or sliding doors.
- While changing the locks, you should also investigate installing a new security system. As a bonus, doing so can often save you money on your home insurance policy.

Read our blog on [changing locks](https://movebuddy.com/post/the-importance-of-changing-locks-in-your-new-home) for more info.



Change your locks

You find out who your true friends are when you move. So, make sure that you thank them by sending a card. 



![Side Peak - Send thank you notes.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Send_thank_you_notes_9f30906023.svg)

No, the (by the time they ate it) cold pizza you bought on moving day isn’t enough. That is, if you ever want help again, anyway.  

 Treat them with a gift card and write something nice in it! Your friends and family members will appreciate it!
  

Send thank you notes

This is your new home! Get out and [explore it](https://movebuddy.com/post/the-importance-of-exploring-your-neighbourhood). 

Go for a walk or a bike ride and make sure to say hi to your neighbours. 


![Side Peak - Explore your new neighbourhood.svg](https://cms-assets.movebuddy.com/Side_Peak_Explore_your_new_neighbourhood_e63cd8a4c2.svg)

This is the cool part. Really. This is your home now. Get out and start living in it!  

For more detailed information on your new home city, check out our [cities of Canada blog](learning-centre/moving).

My Moving Plan