The ultimate checklist for a successful move
For some people, moving can be a big headache. But just the same as with any project, to get good results (and to get them with ease), the key is to be well-organized. The trick many people use to facilitate the moving process is to make a checklist or moving list. Having a moving list will considerably reduce the risk of forgetting something important, which, in turn, will reduce your level of stress.
Here’s an essential checklist of things to do and verify to ensure the success of your move. So go grab a pad of paper!
Moving with the help of professionals or with the help of your friends?
As soon as your move becomes official, you’ll need to decide whether you want to opt for the help of professional movers or the help of your friends.
It’s more economical to ask your friends, of course. However, they probably aren’t equipped to transport heavy items like your refrigerator. So there’s a greater risk of injuries. You’ll also have to rent a moving truck and purchase insurance.
Professional movers, on the other hand, will save you time and ensure your peace of mind, even though this option is more expensive. You can also choose a hybrid solution, i.e. leave the heaviest items (furniture and appliances) for the movers, while you take care of the rest. Whichever way you decide to go, make sure you ask for estimates and book the services of your mover as soon as possible, especially if you’re moving during the first week of July!
Three months before your move
The second item to check off your moving list is sorting out what you need to get rid of before you leave. Here, too, planning is the key. To facilitate the process, proceed by category. For example:
- Clothing: are there certain articles of clothing you haven’t worn in over a year? If so, chances are slim that you’ll ever wear them again. Also get rid of duplicate items.
- Kitchenware: set aside all those things you don’t use anymore (for example, all those cups cluttering up your cabinets).
- Furniture: will it fit in your new home?
Two months before your move: time to pack your boxes!
Once you’ve decluttered your home, it’s time to start packing! Make sure each box is clearly identified. Label each one with the content, the room it came from, the room it’s going to and, if necessary, a warning that the items are fragile.
Another thing to include on your moving list: all the people and businesses to notify with your change of address. It’s a well-known fact that the Quebec Change-of-Address Service (SQCA) will save you a lot of headaches by notifying various organizations on your behalf, including the Government Board of Health Insurance (RAMQ), the Quebec Pension Plan (Retraite Québec), the Income Tax Authority (Revenu Québec) and the Quebec Auto Insurance Company (SAAQ).
Two weeks before your move
By this point, if you’ve done a good job packing your boxes, your home should start looking pretty empty. That’s a good sign! Otherwise, there’s still time to pick up the pace.
If friends are helping you move, this is a good time to confirm that they’re still available.
The day before your move
Make sure you have all your essentials on hand so you don’t have to look for them during the move. These might include:
- A first aid kit
- Cleaning supplies
- Hand soap
- Trash bags
- Tools
Put us on your moving list!
Are you looking for experienced professional movers to help you with your residential or commercial move? For a successful move, do business with the attentive team at Martineau Movers!
