Change your address BEFORE you move! Most companies will allow you to schedule address changes in advance. ✍️Compile a list and set aside time to make your changes. Your list should include post office, banks, credit cards, utility and cable companies, CRA, personal ID (i.e. driver's license), your employer, insurance companies, and clubs or subscription services like Amazon and food box deliveries. Don't forget your friends and family! (Bonus Stress-Free Tip: Find a printable list online)
Taking photos when moving can help save money and time, protect belongings, and spare you from stress along the way! 📸(1) Start with electronics. Before disassembling dusty wires behind the surround sound, gaming consoles, TVs, computers, etc. take photos of which wires go where for easy setup in the new home. *This also applies to furniture you need to dismantle and reassemble. (2) Furniture and valuables. Accidents happen so take before pics to capture existing damage in case you need proof of 'other' damage after. (3) Utility meters before/after the move at each location to ensure readings on your next bill are factual to avoid any unfair charges later from lags or overlaps. 💡Stress-Free Tip: Take a pic of the make, model and serial number of each electronic can help in case you have to track something down – or, if something goes missing, to confirm that component's age and value. Always ensure all photos are time stamped!
With a move approaching, it can be difficult to figure out what to do with all of the food! Throwing it away feels wasteful and packing it all seems daunting. Thankfully, there's a solution! (1) Assess what you have with a full inventory ahead of time. That means all your frozen, refrigerated, canned, boxed, bottled items (cooking oils, condiments, etc.) and baking supplies. Now you'll have a clear idea of what to toss, what to use up, what to donate/give away and what you want to take with you. (2) Toss expired items or almost finished items. (3) Give away any non-perishable items you don't want to keep. (4) Plan out meals to use up your perishables. (4) Create a shopping list for 'after the move'. (5) Pack what you are bringing with you. ***Stress-Free Tips***: Seal open boxes with tape. Bag and protect any items that may break or leak. Use multiple small boxes for packing. Use coolers to pack frozen or refrigerated items and take these with you personally. Label each box properly to find items quickly after the move!
Checking out your new neighbourhood in early days is a great way to gain a bit of footing before you move (or even if you're looking to buy in the area). Unpacking is just a minor aspect of the method of settling down and easing into your new home. Take the time to map out routines and identify normal activities or places you'll need to get familiar with. These may include schools, gyms, banks, grocery stores, farmers markets, vets, work commutes, gas stations, restaurants, coffee shops and parks/leisure centres). Check for local community resources or groups online you may want to join to keep informed of local happenings or gain recommendations from (i.e. baby or pet sitters in the area). Stress-Free Tip: Visit the new area in the morning and in the evening to feel out the vibe by taking a walk, a bike ride or a leisurely drive. If you're feeling social, chat up the neighbours who may also be out and about. Happy Exploring!
It's difficult to remember to leave out certain supplies during the moving day chaos! Have a box or tote with essential and emergency type items as soon as the preparations start and keep this kit separately from ALL other items so it's not mixed up on moving day. You never know what you're going to need until you need it! Items to include in your moving day survival kit: toilet paper, plunger, trash bags, hand soap, cleaning supplies, flashlight, first aid kit, toolkit (measuring tape, all purpose tools and box cutter), duct tape, sharpies, pens/notepad, phone numbers & addresses (i.e. moving company contact info) and any codes or keys you may need, wipes/paper towels, disposable plates and utensils, water and snacks, chargers, entertainment and essentials for kids/pets. Stress-Free Bonus Tip: Pack your personal items separate in an overnight/day bag such as medication and a change of clothes. (We'll do a separate post for this one so stay tuned!)
