Moving checklist (2026)

8 weeks before you move

• Set your moving date and budget.
• Get quotes from a few movers and compare what is included.
• Declutter: sell, donate or throw out what you no longer need.
• For a rental: tell your landlord or agent, and check your lease for the notice period.

4 weeks before you move

• Book your mover and confirm the date in writing.
• Start packing things you rarely use.
• Collect boxes, tape and labels. Write the room on each box.
• Arrange transit insurance if your mover's cover is not enough.

2 weeks before you move

• Update your address with your bank, employer, doctor, school, the CRA and Canada Post mail forwarding.
• Arrange electricity, gas and internet at the new address, and disconnection at the old one.
• Book the lift or loading dock if you live in or move to an apartment.
• Arrange child and pet care for moving day.

1 week before you move

• Pack most rooms. Keep one box of essentials: kettle, phone chargers, medicines, toilet paper, bedding.
• Defrost the freezer and use up food.
• Confirm the time and access details with your mover: stairs, parking, gate codes.
• Book a cleaner if you are leaving a rental.

On moving day

• Be ready when the truck arrives: every box packed and taped.
• Check every room, cupboard and the garden before the truck leaves.
• Take meter readings and photos of the empty home.
• Keep valuables, documents and keys with you, not in the truck.

After the move

• Check furniture and boxes for damage and report it to the mover quickly.
• Unpack the kitchen and bedrooms first.
• Check that mail is coming to your new address.
• Meet your neighbours and find your local tip and services.

Questions about moving house

What should I do first when moving?

Set your date and budget, then get quotes from a few movers. Good movers book out weeks ahead, especially in summer and at the end of the month.

How do I pack my house to move?

Start with rooms you use least, pack heavy items in small boxes, and label every box with the room it goes to. Keep one box of essentials for the first night.

What does moving cost?

A truck with two movers usually costs $120 to $200 per hour. See our moving costs guide for all prices.

Checked in October 2026.

Moving companies near you

• Moving costs in Canada
• Movers Toronto
• Movers Calgary
• Movers Vancouver