Moving Checklist (Week-by-Week & Printable)

Service Overview (Intro)

The Ultimate Moving Checklist: Step-by-Step

Moving feels overwhelming when you try to do everything at once. The secret to a smooth relocation isn't working harder—it's following a clear plan.

This guide provides a practical, week-by-week roadmap designed specifically for moves within Metro Vancouver. Instead of guessing what to do next, use this timeline to stay organized, pack efficiently, and avoid missing critical steps like elevator bookings or utility transfers.

8 Weeks To 4 Weeks Before

8–4 Weeks Before: Plan, Declutter, and Book

This phase decides how smooth your move will be. The goal is to reduce volume, lock in a date, and avoid “surprise problems” like elevator limits, parking issues, or not enough boxes.

• Make a simple inventory: walk room by room and list big items and fragile items.
• Declutter early: create three piles: keep, donate, sell/recycle.
• Sell valuables you won’t bring: list items online so you don’t move things you don’t want.
• Book your movers: confirm the date, start time, and what’s included. Get a free moving estimate.
• Check building rules: if you live in a condo/apartment, ask about elevator booking and moving hours.
• Measure key spaces: doorways, elevators, stairs, and tight corners for large furniture.

If you’re getting rid of furniture or heavy junk, plan it before packing starts. Use junk removal so your move is smaller and faster.

4 Weeks To 2 Weeks Before

4–2 Weeks Before: Packing System and Address Changes

Now you build a packing system that keeps the move organized. Don’t pack randomly. Pack by room, label clearly, and decide what you need on day one.

• Choose your packing supplies: boxes or reusable bins, tape, labels, markers, paper/bubble wrap.
• Start with low-use items: seasonal items, books, décor, storage closets.
• Pack room-by-room: avoid mixing rooms in the same box.
• Label properly: write the room name and a short list of contents on the top and two sides.
• Start address changes: Canada Post mail forwarding, bank, employer, subscriptions, school, insurance.
• Set utility dates: internet, electricity, water, gas, garbage—book the activation ahead of time.

If you want a cleaner packing process with less tape and less box damage, consider our moving box rentals. They stack better, save time on moving day, and protect fragile items well.

1 Week Before

1 Week Before: Finish Packing and Reduce Moving-Day Delays

This week is about finishing strong and removing obstacles on moving day. Your movers should arrive to a home that is ready—boxed, labeled, and walkways clear.

• Finish packing: everything that can go into boxes should be boxed and sealed.
• Keep boxes stackable: don’t overfill and don’t leave open-top boxes.
• Prepare an Open-First box: toilet paper, chargers, scissors, paper towels, snacks, bandages, and basic tools.
• Take photos of electronics: cable setups for TV, Wi-Fi, computer, desk stations.
• Defrost fridge/freezer: at least 24 hours before moving day (empty, clean, dry), use cooler for your fridge items.
• Drain fuel items: gas cans, propane, oil-based equipment (don’t move flammables).
• Drain & Dry Liquid: Drain water hoses from your washer, empty the internal reservoirs of coffee machines, steam mops, and irons, and ensure the refrigerator's defrost tray is clear before moving.
• Confirm building details: elevator booking, loading dock time, security rules, move-in instructions.

Moving Day

Moving Day: A Simple Checklist That Prevents Mistakes

Moving day is smoother when you control three things: access, communication, and placement. Your job is not heavy lifting—it’s helping the day run in the right order.

• Keep pathways clear: hallways, stairs, elevators, and entry doors.
• Separate valuables: jewelry, passports, paperwork, laptops—take them with you.
• Do a final sweep: closets, cabinets, behind doors, balcony, storage locker.
• Direct placement: tell movers where each room is and where big furniture should go.
• Protect keys and documents: keep them in one bag that stays with you.
• Confirm the plan: parking at the destination, elevator access, and entry instructions.

We offer various residential moving services to Metro Vancouver and nearby cities, including Vancouver, Richmond, Burnaby, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Surrey, and more. Feel free to book any of our moving services now for the next 2 months, and you can cancel 1 week before your move for a full refund. 

After The Move

After the Move: Settle In Without Chaos

Most people unpack in the wrong order and feel overwhelmed. The goal is to make your home functional first, then organize slowly after.

• Check essentials: water, power, heating, internet.
• Unpack essentials first: kitchen basics, bathroom basics, bedding, chargers.
• Place furniture correctly now: it saves your back later (especially beds and sofas).
• Flatten and remove packing waste: boxes, wrap, and unwanted packing materials.
• Update key addresses: driver’s license and car insurance.

If you used our reusable boxes and finished unpacking ahead of schedule, contact us for a priority return to clear your space and finalize your move.