Essential Tips to a Stress- Free Move

 

If you are among the thousands of Canadians who move their family to a new home each year, you are aware of some of the frustrations involved when an action plan hasn't been created.  However, there are many ways to help make your move run smoothly.  Here's a checklist from Atlas Van Lines Ltd. that will help with your move.  By planning ahead you can get your life and your possessions organized for a peaceful and effective move.

As soon as your house goes on the market

Purchase packing supplies.

Keep track of moving expenses, as some might be tax deductible.

Clean and de-clutter each room.  Pack unused items that you plan to keep. Store boxes in a location that won't interfere with showings.

Donate unneeded items to charity and organize a garage sale.

Avoid planning to move in on the same day that the former owner is moving out.  It creates confusion and delays can be costly if your mover has to sit and wait to gain access to the residence.

 

As soon as you know a moving date

If hiring movers, get estimates and a list of services.

Place your order when you have a firm move date.

 

Four to six weeks before moving

Keep packing, if movers are going to pack, ask for advice about best ways to prepare.

Contact pool maintenance companies and gardeners, to cancel their services.  Leave their business cards for new owners.

Place reference manuals for major appliances in a kitchen drawer where new owners will find them.

 

Two weeks before moving

Call Utility companies and arrange meter readings on the day of closing.  Have utilities disconnected on closing if the new owner does not establish accounts. 

Discontinue telephone, Internet and television service on the day of closing.  Give your cell phone number or another contact number to everyone associated with the move, just in case.

Call to establishing services at your new home.

File a change of address notice at the post office, making it effective on your moving date or a few days before. Notify creditors, magazine subscriptions, friends and family, doctors, dentists and others of your new address.

 

One week before moving

Confirm closing date and handle tasks required by your Realtor, Linda Sadler.

If you are taking a drapery track, curtain rods, blinds or other such items, remove them before the packers/movers arrive.

Wait to pack your vacuum and other tools necessary for last minute cleaning on moving day.

Dispose of all flammables such as cleaning fluids and aerosol cans.  Your Atlas representative can provide you with a list of "non-admissible" items.

Start an essentials  box or two of all the things you'll need immediately after you unload at your new location, such as toiletries, a broom, towels, sheets, blankets, and a change of clothes.

Plan to clean your freezer and refrigerator at least 24-48 hours prior to the move so they can properly dry.  Put a charcoal filter, baking soda or other such items inside to keep the appliances fresh.  Leave lids and doors open until they are dry.

 

On Moving Day

Walk through your house to find stray items.

Supervise movers as they load, then again at delivery to make sure boxes and other items get to desired rooms.

Unpack your essentials box, and then try to relax for a while before you start the big unpacking job.

 

Your moving timeline may differ if you are selling a house and have accepted a shorter closing date.  Generic tips are a great guideline; however start your own personalized list of moving musts.  Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this article.  However, the information provided is general in nature and those with specific questions should seek professional advice that meets their particular requirements.