For Buyers

❏  Get packing supplies (boxes, tape, stuffing, padding, permanent markers, etc.)

❏  Start cooking with any stored food.

❏  Schedule disconnection of utilities (phone, internet, cable, water, garbage, gas, and electric).

❏  Inform your children’s school of the move and gather school records.

❏  Contact your insurance agent to see about any changes to your policies.

❏  Contact any clubs or health clubs or organizations to cancel or transfer memberships.

❏  Compile records (medical, dental, prescription, legal, and financial) and ask for referrals.

❏  Return rented or borrowed items to their owners.

❏  Inventory all valuable items. Keep your list in your moving binder.

❏  Remove items in a storage shed or attic.

❏  List everyone you need to notify about your move (creditors, subscriptions, family, professional contacts, friends, etc.)

❏  Will you need more than a few hours to move? Need the flexibility of a few days or weeks to move? Be sure to look into moving and storage solutions that can be delivered, picked up and unpacked at your convenience.

❏  Choose your method of moving and confirm timelines and arrangements for your move.

❏  Start packing belongings into boxes. Begin with items you use infrequently. Note valuable items that may need insurance from the moving company.

❏  Label boxes. Clearly write on the box which room it is destined for and its contents.

❏  Separate valuables to be moved personally and label the boxes DO NOT MOVE.

❏  Visit your local post office and complete a “Change of Address” form.

❏  Make any special travel arrangements for pets.

❏  Have your car serviced.

❏  Create a box for tools or parts you may need on moving day.

❏  Create a list of serial numbers for electronics or other valuable items.

❏  Continue packing and cleaning as you go.

❏  Arrange to be off work on your moving day. No need to miss work if you have rented a portable storage container.

❏  Clean out any safe-deposit boxes.

❏  If you hired a moving company, contact and re-confirm your arrangements in case of double bookings. It happens more than you think.

❏  Plan your meals for the last two weeks and use up leftover food.

❏  Assemble a folder of important info for the next homeowner.

❏  Arrange someone to watch any small children on moving day.

❏  Pack suitcases with personal items.

❏  Fill any prescriptions.

❏  Note any current damages to your furniture. Keep in your moving binder.

❏  If travelling far, notify your credit card company of the relocation.

❏  Get rid of flammables (paint, propane, gasoline, etc.) and drain gas and oil from lawn equipment, heaters, etc.

❏  Wake up with a smile.

❏  Make an action plan for moving day.

❏  Set aside boxes you will be moving yourself.

❏  Clean rugs and carpets and have them ready.

❏  Measure doorways and furniture.

❏  Disassemble furniture if possible.

❏  Defrost freezer and clean fridge.

❏  Pack essentials box to keep with you for the move.

❏  Plan for payment: have your cheque, money order, or credit card ready and in your essentials box so it doesn’t get misplaced.

❏  Prepare specific directions to new home if you hired a moving company.

❏  Verify! Make sure the moving truck that shows up is from the company you hired. Unfortunately, moving companies hire contractors when they are busy or double book you.

❏  Place carpet, floor, and door frame protectors throughout home.

❏  Take inventory before the movers leave. Keep a copy of bill of lading and inventory list with you.

❏  Personally supervise any hired labour. Some possessions can be priceless!

❏  Do a walkthrough. Check every room and closet one more time.

❏  Leave a forwarding address for the new owner for any stray mail.

❏  Lock windows and doors, turn off lights, turn the air conditioner off, or lower the heat.

❏  Wave goodbye!

The Ultimate Moving To Do List  ⇓