Moving is one of those things everyone will experience at least once or twice in their lifetime. However, there are big differences between a local move and a long-distance move, especially if you’re moving across Canada.

In this blog we will take you through our ultimate checklist of planning an across Canada move.

Timeline Breakdown for an Across Canada Move

10 Weeks Before Your Move

At the 10 week mark, you’ll want to start looking at where you’ll be moving. If you are purchasing a home, you will want to start researching your new neighborhood and finding a realtor. Use online resources to research houses in the area.

If you’re planning to rent, start researching places in your desired area and set up virtual viewings or appointments if you’re doing a house hunting trip.

Find a realtor to handle the listing and selling of your current home. If you’re renting a place, you’ll want to get in contact with your landlord and advise them of your move date.

8 Weeks Before Your Move

At this point, your home-buying or lease should be in the works, and you’re left finalizing the remaining details.

Research professional long-distance moving companies in your area. Check out Canadian Association of Movers for moving resources and to find accredited professional movers. You should get a number of estimates to compare before making your final decision.

Start going through your home and decide what you want to take with you, what you want to donate and what you want to sell. Doing this beforehand will help you move items you no longer need and can save you money on your overall moving costs.

Go through your pantry and freezer and start using up any perishables you can’t take with you. It’s recommended to get your pantry down to the absolute basics before moving day.

6 Weeks Before Your Move

Get in contact with Revenue Canada and discuss what portion of your moving expenses may be tax deductible.

Start letting people know you’re moving. This includes government agencies and your bank.

Start packing up things you don’t use regularly like Christmas decorations or items located in your attic or basement. Anything you won’t need before your move you should start to pack.

4 Weeks Before Your Move

Consider forwarding your mail from Canada Post to your new address. This ensures no mail is missed or lost after you move.

Arrange to have your utilities turned on at your new home and turned off at your old home. Make sure you schedule the connection and disconnections at the appropriate date and time. You don’t want to be left without heat in a Canadian winter!

If you are packing yourself, make sure you purchase plenty of boxes and packing supplies to start the packing process. People often underestimate the time it takes to pack a full home, so be prepared and remember to take breaks.

3 Weeks Before Your Move

Start to make your travel arrangements to your new home. If you’re driving across Canada, you may want to start booking hotels or Airbnb’s. If you’re flying, you’ll want to purchase your plane tickets.

2 Weeks Before Your Move

If you are driving to your new home, make sure to get your car serviced. Oil change, tires rotated, and any other required services should be done at this time.

Confirm the date and time of the move with your moving company. Double check what services are included and anything you might need to know such as the Transit Time Guide of your shipment. If you are moving into a building with an elevator, now would be an ideal time to confirm elevator bookings.

Gather all your important documents like passports, insurance papers, birth certificates, mortgage papers and make sure they are packed in your travel luggage before the movers arrive.

1 Week Before Moving

Close any local accounts and settle any outstanding bills.

Make sure any lawn care equipment is drained of gas and oil and that you have properly disposed of hazardous materials.

If you are taking any appliances with you, disconnect them (defrost freezer) and clean them out before the movers arrive.

Moving Day

There should be very little left for you to do until the movers arrive. You’ll want to give them a rundown on all the items that are moving and what is staying.

After the movers have loaded up your shipment, you’ll want to ensure your home is cleaned. Many local cleaners offer a moving out service.

Finally, travel to your new home and accept the delivery of your shipment when it arrives.

Looking for A Professional Across Canada Moving Company?

Are you making a big move across Canada? Contact Matco Moving Solutions today for a long distance moving quote to get the process started.