Smart Things to Do Before Your Moving Day

After careful consideration, you decided to hire a professional mover. And though you’re feeling confident about your move, you’re a bit anxious about your moving day. The clock is ticking fast and you’re unsure where to begin.

Here’s a list of 15 smart things to do before your moving day to help you relax and ease the load.

Be Smart With Your Packing

Packing is one of the most critical components of your move. It’s a good idea to hire a mover with full packing services. They have the right equipment and packing materials on hand to pack your belongings and deliver them safely to your new home. Make sure you discard all unwanted items in a timely manner. A garage sale is a perfect way to get rid of all those items in your attic. 

Do Not Pack Your Closet

If you have hired a professional mover with a full packing service, then you don’t have to worry about packing your closet. Even if you have a closet full of formal wear, no folding is required. Your movers will provide you with a wardrobe box to make packing a breeze.

Safety – Clear Your Pathways before Your Movers Arrive

Ensure your pathways are clear to avoid accidents. Uncluttered pathways allow your movers to safely load your belongings and complete the job on time.

Defrost the Refrigerator

Remember to defrost your freezer 24-48 hours before your movers arrive. If your freezer is not a defrost model, allow additional time. Place towels on the floor to soak up any water that may drip. 

Arrange For a Babysitter on Your Moving Day

Moving is a daunting task and you need to stay focused on moving day. It’s a good idea to make childcare arrangements in advance so you can focus on the task at hand. Moving with children? Check out our moving with children tips.

Book the Elevator in Your Apartment

If you live in an apartment, then consult your building’s management company about their moving policies and make arrangements in advance. 

Transport Valuables Personally

You should carry all valuable items along with you during the move. Check with your home insurance company to see if you can add coverage for some of your more valuable items to your home insurance policy. Pack any valuables in their original boxes whenever possible, and always remember to label all boxes "FRAGILE"

Apply For a Parking Permit

You will need to make parking arrangements for your moving truck on moving day. If you do not have enough parking space near your house, then you may need to obtain a street occupancy permit from the city.

Donate Items to Charity (Cycle through Your Pantry)

Do you have canned items in your pantry that never seem to get eaten? For many families, months can fly by and some items remain untouched. QMM in partnership with Move for Hunger has the answer! Before you move, remember to cycle through your pantry and donate non-perishable food items to the local food bank. Consider selecting a moving company that partners with Move for Hunger, then you won’t have to do anything at all.

Notify Utility Providers In Advance

You will need to contact utility providers separately to let them know that you’re moving. We suggest doing this at least 2 weeks in advance. For services like internet and cable, you should notify your service provider one month in advance.

Take Final Meter Readings

Take a photo of your final meter readings before leaving the house on your moving day. In case of dispute, it will help you to provide the proof of your meter reading.

Tell Your Banks about the Move

Make sure you update your new mailing address along with your bank. The last thing you want to worry about is having your personal items stolen after moving to your new home. This is important even if you do online banking only. Most banks allow you to update your address through online banking without any hassle.

Get Your Mail Redirected

Register a mail redirection request with Canada Post effective a couple of days before the move, and send out change of address notifications.

Check Your New Home Is Insured

Make sure you’ve insured the contents of your new and old home. Most insurance providers will cover your belongings during your move – but only if you are using professional movers to transport your items.