The Ultimate Checklist for Stress-Free Moving

Picture this: You’re surrounded by stacks of boxes, frantically searching for your toothbrush while the moving truck pulls up, ready to whisk your items to your new home. Relocating can be an exhilarating adventure filled with anticipation and new beginnings. However, if you’ve ever experienced the chaos and stress of a disorganized move, you know that this excitement can quickly turn into a whirlwind of anxiety — we’ve all been there! Whether you’re beginning your journey or are knee-deep in the process, we put together the ultimate checklist for a stress-free moving experience.

Preparing for the Move

The secret to a low-stress move lies in proper planning. Start by creating a timeline for your move, taking into account critical dates like the official move-out and move-in days. Once your timeline is set:

• Decide on the method of moving: Will you hire a moving company or do it yourself?

• Declutter and organize. Use this transition as an opportunity to sort through your possessions, donating or disposing of items you no longer need.

• Gather your supplies. Essential supplies for a move include boxes, protective materials like bubble wrap or cloths, packing tape, labels, and markers.

Managing Logistics

Once you’ve tackled initial preparation, it’s time to dive into logistical details. This includes all the coordination and administrative tasks required to ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

Childcare and Pet Sitting

Moving can be hectic, and having little ones or furry friends around on the official move day might cause distractions. Consider arranging childcare or pet sitting.

Booking Movers or Rental Trucks

If you’ve opted for a moving company or rental truck, booking their services well in advance is essential. This secures a spot for you ahead of time, avoiding the stress of scrambling to find availability, especially during peak moving seasons.

Change of Address

Notify the post office of your upcoming move to avoid complications and disruptions. Fill out a mail forwarding form to redirect your mail to your new address for a set period, usually six months to a year.

Additionally, update your address with important institutions like your:

• Bank
• Insurance providers
• Subscriptions
• Driver’s license

Transfer or Set Up Utilities

Contact your current utility providers, like electricity, gas, water, and internet, to inform them of your plans and arrange for a service end date. Some providers may also allow you to transfer your existing plan to your new address. If not, reach out to other companies at your new location to schedule the setup ahead of time.

Extra Steps Before Moving Day

Believe it or not, the more prep you do before moving day, the better the actual day will go. Here are three things you can do to keep your stress in check and make moving that much more seamless:

1. Before you leave your old rental for the last time, take time-stamped pictures of the entire place. This could help protect you if your former landlord tries to claim or deduct your security deposit for property damage.
2. Before you move into your new home, notify your landlord and review the lease to avoid last-minute surprises, such as unexpected utility bills, steep rent increases or exit fees.
3. Schedule an elevator reservation for move-out day to save time on your move if you’re living in a high-rise. Alternatively, schedule the elevator for move-in day as well, if you’re moving into another high-rise.

Getting Insured

While managing the logistics of your move, don’t forget to prioritize the safety and security of your new place. Tenant insurance, for example, provides coverage for your personal belongings and liability protection when you’re renting. 

Packing Smarter, Not Harder

Moving means packing. Since the two go hand-in-hand, you’ll want to carefully plan how you are going to pack with as much attention to detail as your move. Here are some helpful tips to help you do just that:

• Rent reusable plastic bins from U-Haul or Frogbox as a more sustainable and sturdier packing alternative. Plus, once you are done moving, you can return them, so there’s no need to haul all that cardboard to the recycling.
• Use suitcases for heavier items: To prevent your items from ripping boxes and getting damaged, like books or small appliances, store them in your bags and pack your clothes in boxes instead.
• Label box sides, not tops: Mile-high amounts of boxes? Labelling the sides means you can easily find which box has the items you’re looking for while they’re stacked on top of each other.
• Number each box: Use a spreadsheet and list which box has which items for quick access and easier unpacking.
• Store small hardware (screws, bolts) in resealable bags: Then, tape them to the corresponding furniture pieces.

Now that you’ve prepped, get ready to pack efficiently:

• Start with non-essentials. These could be things like off-season clothing, decorative items, or books.
• Pack room by room
• Use colour-coded labels to help you identify the contents of boxes faster. Consider sorting each room by colour to make unpacking easier.
• Ensure fragile items are clearly labelled. Pack them with bubble wrap, newspaper, or blankets for added cushioning.
• Keep important documents and valuables separate and secure.

On the official move day:

• Pack an essentials bag with all the necessities you’ll need for the first day in your new home. This ensures that items like toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, and chargers are accessible at all times.
• Keep a toolbox on hand for quick repairs or furniture assemblies.

Post-Move Peace of Mind

Double-check your move-in inspection form and document any issues to your landlord. Register for tenant insurance immediately if you haven’t already done so. If moving into Accora Village, visit our portal for a free quote on your tenant insurance. It can be a real help!

Don’t forget to take the time to explore nearby amenities and walking trails to make your new neighbourhood feel like home.

Unpacking and Settling In

Now that you’ve arrived at your new home, it’s time to get settled. Here are some things to keep in mind as you go through your move-in checklist:

• Unpack strategically: Begin with the essentials, such as kitchen items and bathroom supplies. Using the colour-coded label system mentioned above can make identifying the right boxes much easier.
• Take it easy: Moving and settling in can be a tiring process, so don’t try to do everything at once. Take plenty of breaks, stay hydrated, and eat good fuel food.
• Furniture and appliance assembly: Prioritize furniture and appliance assembly at the top of your moving to-do list. For example, setting up your bed as soon as possible ensures you have a comfortable resting spot during this process.
• Home organization: Take the time to set up functional layouts and storage solutions in your new home. Starting with a well-organized space can help you maintain a clutter-free home.

Ease into Your New Chapter

Congratulations on your next big step in life! If you made it to the end of our moving-out checklist, it means you’re unpacking, settling in, and ready to take in your new surroundings. If you’re still in the beginning stages of the moving process, keep in mind that, at the end of the day, planning and organization are the secret ingredients to a stress-free move. 

Still in search of your perfect home? Browse our apartments and townhomes at Accora Village. We make moving easy with spaces that cater to your needs at every stage of life. Whether you’re growing your family or looking to downsize, we offer a range of options, from studio apartments to four-bedroom garden homes. Our pet-friendly and newly renovated rentals are designed to suit a variety of lifestyles, allowing you to find a space that truly feels like home. Your new beginning awaits, ready to embrace you with open arms!