Preparation

Obtain a Change of Address Notifications Cards from your local Post Office. Send cards to:

Banks, insurance companies, and other financial institutions
Charge card and credit card companies
Doctors, dentists, and other service providers
Federal, Provincial and Municipal authorities and any other government agencies as needed
Gather moving supplies, boxes, tape, rope.
If moving far away, make any necessary travel arrangements
Call a moving company or make truck rental reservation to move yourself
Place medical and insurance records in a safe and accessible place

Two Weeks Before Moving

Inform gas, electric, water, cable, local telephone and trash removal services of your move. Sign up for services at your new address.
Inform long distance phone company of your move. Sign up for long distance service at your new address
Recruit moving-day help
Confirm travel reservation, if moving far
Arrange to close or transfer your bank account, if appropriate

The Day Before Moving

Set aside moving materials like a tape measure, pocket knife, packing boxes, tape and markers
Pick up rental truck, if you have rented or borrowed
Check oil and gas in the rental truck and your car
If traveling, make sure you have tickets, charge cards, and other essentials

Packing Tips

Keep the following supplies and accessories on hand:

Boxes, all sizes
Bubble wrap or other cushioning material
Marking pens
Tape measure
Furniture pads or old blankets
Packing tape and scissors
Money and credit cards
Label each box with the room in the new home to which it should be delivered.
Number the boxes and keep a list of what is in each box.
Clearly mark fragile items.
Pack a bag of personal items you’ll need during the move (change of clothes, toiletries, medicine, maps, food, and drinks). Keep it in an easy-to-find place when you pack.
Keep a medical kit accessible.
If you have children, pack a bag of games and activities for the trip

During the First Week After Moving

Locate police and fire stations as well as hospitals and gas stations near your home.
Scout your new neighbourhood for shopping areas. You may need furniture, tools, or house wares unexpectedly.
Call your local Municipal authority to find out which day the trash is collected. Also ask whether your new community has recycling programs.
Seek out new service providers such as a bank, cleaners, veterinarian.
If you have moved into a different province, contact the Motor Vehicles Department to get your new driver’s license.
Call your Chamber of Commerce for helpful information on: Schools, Cable service, Cultural events and community activities, Libraries and parks, and Availability of emergency calling services, such as 911
Provide your new doctor and dentist with your medical history. You may need to request your file from your previous doctor/dentist.
Transfer insurance policies to an agent in your new community.
You may also wish to make a detailed list of your belongings, their value, and your coverage.
Give your new home a good cleaning.