Moving Checklist

Plan Your Move

Moving can be overwhelming, but with proper planning, it doesn't have to be. Use this comprehensive checklist to stay organized and ensure nothing is forgotten.

6-8 Weeks Before Moving Day

Review your lease - Understand move-out procedures and notice requirements

Give notice - Notify current landlord (60 days required in Ontario for monthly tenants)

Create a moving budget - Account for movers, supplies, deposits, etc.

Research moving companies - Get quotes from 3+ companies

Start decluttering - Donate, sell, or dispose of items you don't need

Gather moving supplies - Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers

4-6 Weeks Before Moving Day

Book movers - Or reserve rental truck if DIY

Start packing - Begin with rarely used items

Label boxes - By room and contents

Update your address - With employers, banks, subscriptions

Transfer/setup utilities - Hydro, gas, water, internet, cable

Schedule elevator - If applicable in current or new building

Notify services - Canada Post, insurance, CRA, Service Canada

2-4 Weeks Before Moving Day

Continue packing - Focus on non-essentials

Confirm move-in date - And get keys from new landlord

Submit address changes - Driver's license, health card, vehicle registration

Arrange parking - For moving truck at both locations

Plan for pets/kids - Arrange care for moving day

Deep clean new place - Before moving in (if possible)

1 Week Before Moving Day

Confirm with movers - Time, address, special requirements

Pack essentials box - Toiletries, clothes, chargers, medications

Defrost freezer - At least 24 hours before

Return borrowed items - To neighbors, friends, library

Back up computers - In case of damage during move

Dispose of hazardous items - Paint, chemicals, propane (can't be moved)

Moving Day

Document condition - Take photos/videos of old place before leaving

Do final walkthrough - Check all rooms, closets, storage

Clean thoroughly - Leave place in good condition

Turn off utilities - Lights, appliances, thermostat

Return keys - To landlord and collect security deposit info

Supervise loading - Be present for inventory

Keep valuables with you - Important documents, jewelry, medications

After the Move

Document new place condition - Photos/videos before unpacking

Test smoke/CO detectors - Install new batteries if needed

Locate circuit breaker - And main water shutoff

Change locks - If allowed by landlord

Introduce yourself - To neighbors

Register to vote - Update voter information

Find local services - Doctor, dentist, pharmacy, vet

Update online accounts - Amazon, food delivery, etc.

Who to Notify

Government & Official:

Canada Revenue Agency
Service Canada
Elections Canada
Driver's License (MTO)
Health Card (OHIP)
Vehicle Registration

Financial:

Banks & Credit Unions
Credit Card Companies
Insurance Providers
Investment Accounts
Loan/Mortgage Providers

Services:

Canada Post (mail forwarding)
Utility Companies
Internet/Cable Providers
Phone Company
Subscriptions (magazines, etc.)

Personal:

Employer/HR Department
Schools/Daycares
Doctor/Dentist
Veterinarian
Gym/Memberships
Online Retailers

Essentials Box - Pack Last, Unpack First

Personal Items:

Toiletries & medications
Change of clothes
Pajamas
Phone chargers
Laptop/tablet
Important documents

Household Items:

Toilet paper & paper towels
Hand soap & cleaning supplies
Trash bags
Light bulbs
Basic tools (screwdriver, hammer)
Scissors & box cutter

Kitchen:

Coffee maker & coffee
Plates & utensils
Cups/mugs
Snacks & bottled water
Dish soap

Other:

First aid kit
Flashlight & batteries
Pet supplies
Kids' toys/comfort items
Cash for tips/emergencies

Moving Budget Estimator

Moving Company/Truck	$300-2000
Packing Supplies	$50-200
Insurance	$50-150
Cleaning Supplies	$30-100
Tips for Movers	$40-100
Utility Deposits	$0-300
Total Estimate:	$470-2850

💡 Pro Tips

Book movers early: Summer is peak season - book 4-6 weeks ahead.

Move mid-month: Rates are often lower than month-end.

Declutter first: Moving is expensive - don't pay to move things you don't need.

Take photos: Document condition of both old and new places.

More Resources

Tenant Rights Application Tips