10 tips for a hassle-free move

1. Book your truck or movers early

Reserving your truck or movers should be one of your first steps. During busy periods, the most reputable companies fill up quickly.

To make an informed choice, ask for references and compare two or three quotes.

If you’re not using professional movers, notify your friends and family well in advance and make sure to book your truck ahead of time.

Costs can also vary depending on the date you choose. Avoid July 1, month-ends, and weekends. Moving on a weekday is often more affordable. If needed, plan your time off work in advance.

2. The list: a simple way to stay organized

The weeks leading up to a move involve many tasks that need coordination. A well-structured list helps you prioritize and track progress.

If there are a bunch of you, share the list and get into the habit of checking off completed tasks. A digital version offers more flexibility for updates.

3. Sort through your belongings

Cutting down on your belongings makes moving more manageable. The earlier you sort, the less you’ll have to carry. Go through your storage spaces as soon as possible.

To guide you, divide your items into four groups:

• Items to sell
• Items to donate, ideally before peak moving season
• Items to recycle or repurpose, depending on your time and energy
• Items to throw away when they’re no longer usable

By keeping only the essentials, you simplify both the move and settling into your new home.

4. Find your boxes and necessary supplies

To avoid unnecessary expenses, start collecting boxes a few weeks before the move. Local businesses can be a good resource. Choose smaller boxes to make transport easier.

Wardrobe boxes can also be considered if you want to move your clothes with minimal handling.

At the same time, make sure you have the necessary supplies on hand:

• Markers
• Tape
• Scissors
• Paper
• Garbage bags
• Paper towels

5. Pack your belongings efficiently

Packing well also saves you time when you’re unpacking. Start with seasonal or rarely used items and finish with what you will need until the last moment.

Each box should indicate its contents, the destination room and, if applicable, the mention “fragile.” Plates should be wrapped individually and placed vertically to reduce the risk of breakage.

Turn certain drawers into boxes when their contents are suitable. Avoid overfilling boxes with books and use rolling suitcases instead.

To protect fragile items, use textiles already on hand. Photographing your various connections and setups will save you time upon arrival.

6. Notify your broker

Before moving day, contact your broker to report your change of address for your home and car insurance.

It’s also important to confirm the extent of your coverage during the move. A discussion in advance helps identify any coverage gaps and reduce risks.

7. Don’t forget your change of address

Moving is also the time to update your address with all relevant organizations.

In Quebec, the Service québécois de changement d’adresse allows you to send your new contact information to several organizations in a single process, including the Chief Electoral Officer of Quebec, the RAMQ, Retraite Québec, Revenu Québec and the SAAQ.

You will then need to notify other organizations, such as the Canada Revenue Agency, your service providers, your employer, your financial institutions and certain retailers.

To prevent oversights

For added peace of mind, Canada Post offers a mail forwarding service to your new address. Available for four or 12 months depending on the plan, this service helps reduce missed mail during the transition.

8. Survival 101: Gather all essentials to make it through 24 hours

Upon arrival, focus on the essentials: Two or three boxes with what you need to live right away:

• Basic toiletries
• Tools and screws
• Cleaning products
• Important medications
• Bedding
• Spare clothing
• Phone charging cables
• Baby food, if needed, or pet food
• Utensils and plates for your first couple of meals

Just enough to get started without chaos.

9. Fewer injuries, greater efficiency

Injuries happen quickly when moving, especially when loads are handled improperly. To reduce risks: equip yourself properly, clear the space and carry your boxes in a way that protects your back and arms.

10. Take care of your team

Are friends or family helping you? Focus on hospitality: cold drinks, snacks, simple meals… and something to cover pizza on the go. After the effort comes rest (or cleaning, your choice!).

Welcome home!