Moving Timeline

Moving can be one of the most stressful experiences of our lives, but a little bit of advanced planning can go a long way in alleviating hassles and anxiety. Follow this suggested timeline to make your next move as seamless as possible.

8 Weeks before Your Move

• Research moving companies. Ask for recommendations from friends and family, look at Yelp and Google reviews, and narrow it down to three options.
• Contact these moving companies to discuss quotes on and availability on your desired date.
• Sort through your sheds, closets and storage containers and begin sorting items you do not want to take with you.
• Start using the food items (frozen foods, canned goods, etc.) and cleaning supplies that you won’t be moving.
• Notify your landlord if you are renting.

6 Weeks before You Move

• If you’re moving to a new town, contact the tourism office or visit the city’s website for information about your new location.
• Hold a yard sale or donate the belongings you no longer want.
• Notify your doctor, dentist, vet, lawyer, accountant, children’s school, etc. about the move. Get copies of your records and ask for referrals when necessary.
• Book your moving company.

4 Weeks before You Move

• Update your newspaper and magazine subscriptions, credit cards, and other organizations with your new address and the date of your move.
• If moving in or out of a building with an elevator, reserve it for your moving date.
• Contact your utility companies and begin the process of closing your services at the current address and moving them to the new one.
• Complete and submit a ‘change of address’ card at your local post office.
• Update your insurance policies to move coverage from your existing location to your new address.

3 Weeks before You Move

• Pick up moving supplies. The UPS Store offers a wide range of materials, from boxes to tape to packing peanuts.
• Begin packing non-essential items.
• Contact your bank to close or move your accounts.

2 Weeks before You Move

• If you’re moving by car, have it checked and serviced.
• Finish packing and boxing everything but your essentials.

1 Week before You Move

• Ship large or fragile items you don’t want to move using a trusted company like The UPS Store.
• Arrange disposal of any items that can’t be thrown in the regular garbage (old electronics, paint, batteries, etc.).
• In a suitcase, pack the essential documents, clothing, toiletries, medicine, bedding, etc. that you will need for the first night or two at your new place.
• Call to confirm the date and time with your moving company, elevator booking, etc.
• Arrange to have your new place cleaned thoroughly before your arrival.

1 Day before You Move

• Clean out your fridge, freezer and cupboards.
• Make a final sweep of all of your storage areas to ensure you’re not missing anything.
• Once everything has been packed and organized, do one final clean.
• Ensure you have enough cash to tip movers.

Moving Day

• Accompany your movers as they check the inventory and condition of your belongings before they put anything in their truck. Point out any fragile items.
• Make note of your utility metre readings (gas, electric, water, etc.).
• Conduct a final sweep before leaving to ensure you have not forgotten anything, turn off lights, and lock windows and doors.

The UPS Store is your one-stop shop for moving supplies and support. From expert advice to packing materials, let us help you make your move easier.  Learn more.