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Moving can be a stressful time but approaching with a plan and some organization can help to reduce your stress.  Here are some ideas to assist in your moving preparations:

Ahead of Moving Day 

• Create a folder on your computer to store all the checklists, spreadsheets, estimates and such that you will work with during the preparation of your move. Being organized rules!  Also, create a digital copy of all important documentations you have at home and save it there.

• Make a list of large appliances and furniture you will need to move. You will need this to decide on a moving truck size or get a proper estimate for movers. It will also give you a better idea of the scope of the work. Make an inventory of your belongings!
• Identify any items that need special care such as firearms, paintings and fine art, glass or fragile cabinets, pool tables and pianos. You will need to gather adequate wrapping for these and inform your mover.
• If possible, take measurements of the dimensions at your new address. It will help you plan your furniture placement.
• Make a list of major pieces to give away or sell.
• Have a plan on how to make this day fun for the kids. They can be useful when it comes to packing their toys and moving small boxes.
• Find someone to take care of your animal(s) on moving day. It is a stressful experience for your best friend!

Booking your moving team - How to choose the best mover

• Book your movers or your truck in advance. When choosing a mover, evaluate the following:  BBB ratings, Google and Facebook reviews. Make sure the mover is an actual pro!
• Compare at least three prices. You may be surprised by the difference from one company to another.
• Make sure the estimate is comprehensive and realistic considering what you need to move. Some movers may quote a cheap price and charge extra on the moving date. Ask how many movers will assist you.
• Validate that a moving insurance is included and that the moving company guarantees any items that may be broken during the move.
• Have a backup plan. It may sound alarmist, but what happens if the mover does not show up or cannot complete the job the same day? Make sure you have someone to

Packing and preparing the house

• Mark your boxes. This one is part of every moving checklist and sounds like a given, but do not underestimate its importance. 
• Take photos or videos of every complex electronic connection, such as your stereo, TV and home computer.  Do the same for your washing machine, dishwasher, and other appliances. It will avoid headaches and uncertainties when reconnecting them.
• It is easy to misplace documents such as passports, optical records, insurance coverage and such when moving.  Place everything at risk in the same box and scan important documents if possible. You can do so easily for free with the Dropbox app (which can also help you store all your moving-related documents).
• Pack a bag containing some clothes and toiletries so that they are easily accessible.
• Clean the house for the new occupants — it is common courtesy.

Moving home services and all address changes

• Moving is a great time to reevaluate your needs. Before transferring your current internet plan, have a look at what is available on the market. You may be surprised at how much you can save. The same is true for home insurance and security systems.
• Inform your utility provider of your move.
• Get a few quotes for home insurance. You may want to bundle it with your car insurance if you are not already doing this.
• Ask your pharmacist to send your prescriptions to your new local branch.
• Update your address with your magazine and subscription box providers.
• Update your address with your rewards programs.
• Inform your kid’s school of your move.
• Inform your bank, credit cards and investment brokers.
• Change your address on your driver’s license, government insurance program ARC, CPP and such.
• Worried you are still forgetting something? Forward your mail with Canada Post. 

Do not forget when moving

• Return movie rentals and books to the library.
• Get your clothes from the dry cleaner.
• If you are a tenant, make arrangements to leave the key with your landlord.
• Have cash on hand to tip the movers.

Sourced from: wemovetheworld.com