Pre-Moving Tips

Before you move, there is the pre-move. In order to make moving day go off without a hitch, we have provided a short list of tips and tricks to help. Getting a head-start on moving can really increase your chances of having a problem-free move. We hope that by adding this checklist, or parts of it to your own your move, everything on the big day will go smoothly. If you need extra help, Jiffy is here for you.

Countdown to Moving Day

2-4 weeks before you move:

• Purchase packing supplies.
• Start packing boxes as soon as possible.
• Sell or donate unwanted items.
• Send “change of address” cards to: friends and relatives, magazines, credit and gas cards, insurance company, lawyer, accountant, etc. These cards are free at the post office.
• Make arrangements to transfer automobile and driver’s licences, medical, dental, school, pet records, and any prescriptions.
• Settle all local tax bills.
• Arrange for shipment of pets.
• Reserve a moving truck if you’re going to move everything by yourself.
• Make arrangements with a reputable mover if you are not planning to move yourself. Do keep in mind that although it’s cheaper to move on your own without a professional mover, your health is valuable too and you shouldn’t move what you are not physically capable of lifting safely. You might think you can lift your recliner, but the heavier an item is the more probable accidents become.
• Ensure that your mover has adequate insurance and ask to see a certificate. It’s a bonus if they are bonded.

One to Two Weeks Before You Move

• Notify utilities, telephone, internet provider and cable TV companies at both old and new addresses setting dates for disconnections and hookups.
• Pick up loaned items, return borrowed items.
• Pick up clothing items at dry-cleaners and at your tailor.
• Close and transfer bank accounts and safety deposit boxes.
• Check on items at repair shops.

1-2 Weeks Before You Move

• Notify utilities, telephone, internet provider and cable TV companies at both old and new addresses setting dates for disconnections and hookups.
• Pick up loaned items, return borrowed items.
• Pick up clothing items at dry-cleaners and at your tailor.
• Close and transfer bank accounts and safety deposit boxes.
• Check on items at repair shops.

2-7 Days Before You Move

• Arrange a babysitter for moving day if you have small children.
• Arrange for inspection and servicing of cars.
• Drain gas from lawnmowers, motorcycles etc.
• Discard all flammables, such as paint and gasoline.
• Buy travellers cheques if moving to another country.
• Finish packing, except those items needed for moving day.
• Empty and defrost refrigerator and freezer.

1 Day Before You Move

• Prepare box lunches, ice packs and beverages for moving day.
• Pack a personal suitcase containing items you need for moving day, as well as those items you’ll need first thing in your new home. Don’t forget toiletries and important medicines.
• Clean oven range and stovetops.

Moving Day

• Strip all beds and cover the mattresses with mattress bags.
• Lock all windows and doors and turn off water and lights.
• Leave a note indicating your new address.