It’s normal to feel anxious about relocating. You and your family are uprooting your lives, and things will be different. Even positive change can be stressful. Staying organized helps you manage your worries.
The biggest task will likely be packing and moving. Renting the services of a professional mover will take a huge weight off your shoulders. Professional Movers Toronto has gathered a few other ways to stay organized and in control ahead of your move.
TWO TO THREE MONTHS BEFORE THE MOVE
Contact local moving companies to get estimates. Book your moving day as soon as possible. You’ll feel better knowing you have a reserved date.
Budget moving costs. Your relocation could be tax deductible so keep receipts and a spreadsheet. If your employer is catering for the move, contact the department responsible to know how they work. Feeling in control of finances will ease your mind.
Sell, donate or trash. Moving is a great time for a garage sale. Donate or throw away what you don’t sell. You’ll be surprised how purging can relieve some stress.
Gather records. Collect and manage medical records, the kids’ school records, motor vehicle registration and insurance, bank records, and magazine subscriptions before the move. Provide the post office, bank and credit card companies with your new address.
Get rid of hazards. Plan to drop off hazardous waste like paint or gas for the mower at a collection spot. Visit your city’s website for the hazardous waste collection site.
Call contractors and schedule for any repairs needed on your old house.
ONE TO TWO MONTHS BEFORE THE MOVE
Plants and pets. Think about how you’ll move things like plants, pets and other belongings a moving company can’t transport. If you have pets, consult with your vet about their safety and comfort.
Contact the utility agencies and schedule turning off the utilities at your current home and turning on at the new one.
Get packing equipment. Most of your packing will be taken care of by your moving company. If you have belongings that you want to pack yourself, get all the packing equipment you need. Confirm the big day with your moving company.
TWO TO THREE WEEKS BEFORE THE MOVE
Take care of the lawn. Clean up lawn appliances, outdoor furniture, and toys. Drain any gasoline left in your mower, and dispose of it well.
Defrost the freezer to keep mold or mildew at bay after your relocate.
Cancel or change home deliveries and services such as newspaper delivery, regular maintenance of the lawn or pool and any other services you receive.
Return library books. If you are relocating from the area, it’s time to collect belongings in your safe deposit box, storage unit, pick up dry cleaning and return library books.
ONE WEEK BEFORE YOUR MOVE
Pack a survival kit. Ensure you have toiletries, clothes and prescription drugs in an overnight bag. Pack a survival kit for everyone, even pets, which should include snacks and pet food. Should you experience any delays, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you have the important things on hand.
Arrange items that are not going in the moving truck. It’s a good idea to claim a place in the house where these things will stay during the big day.
Make childcare plans. Consider how you will keep your kids out of the way while the movers work. Have an area where you can keep an eye on them, or let them stay at their friends’ for the day. Keeping children safe reduces everyone’s worry.
Disconnect appliances. If you have devices that require professional disconnection, schedule it to be done this week.
Use up your food and keep only enough for the remaining days.
MOVING DAY
Clean out the fridge and kitchen cupboards. Throw out extra food.
Check every room. Walk through the house checking every room to ensure nothing is unpacked.
Lock all doors and windows. Ensure all entry points are properly closed and locked, all supplies such as gas and electricity are shut off and leave keys and garage door openers in an agreed upon location.
Staying organized elevates stress. The best movers in Toronto are committed to making your move worry-free. Contact us to get your moving quotes.