Tip Sheet: Keep This Short To-Do List for Long Distance Moving
Making a simple checklist of simple two-dos 4-6 weeks before your long distance moving truck arrives will help alleviate some of the burden.
There is a misnomer about long distance moving that every last detail must be written down before and after you start packing.
Yes, you should organize yourself so that you don’t land at your new location clueless to what you’ve packed in those boxes. However, there is a way to organize yourself before you pack that won’t cause too much stress on your system.
Get organized and add these to-dos to your moving checklist at least 4-6 weeks before moving:
Hire Your Long Distance Movers:
Shopping for movers can be one of the biggest stresses when making a long distance move. Start with finding at least 3-5 reputable companies and get moving quotes from each.
Here are some questions to ask:
- Will you do an on-site, in-person estimate of my belongings and what type of estimate does your company provide?
- Is the moving service done by your own personnel and with your own trucks or do you hire outside the company?
- Can you guarantee a final price?
- What kind of licensing and insurance do you provide?
- How are my belongings protected during a move and how do you handle claims if damage does occur?
- How is the delivery date calculated on a long distance move and is there compensation if my possessions should arrive later than the planned moving date?
Send Out Your New Address:
A visit to the post office either in person or online is a good first step so that you can schedule your mail to be forwarded to your new address. Also, make sure your bank has your new address, and find out where the closest branch will be at your new location. If you do most of your banking online, make sure all your bill payees and credit card companies know of your new location.
Others to notify include:
- Provincial government re: MSP, driver’s license
- Canada Revenue Agency (tax office)
- Car and home insurance companies
- Doctor, dentist
- Schools
- Magazine and other subscriptions
Sort But Don’t Pack Everything Just Yet:
A month before your long distance movers are scheduled to arrive, figure out what you will need and what you won’t need for your move. It’s also a good time to get your boxes and moving supplies ready. Don’t feel you have to start packing everything just yet. Start by decluttering and sorting out the items you wish to take with you, and visit your local Goodwill, Salvation Army or other thrift shop with your donations.
If you wish to sell off some of your items, look for a social media buy and sell forum or a reputable classified service (your local newspaper is a good place to start) to list your items.
For tips on sorting your belongings, read our blog: Declutter Before Your Last Minute Movers Arrive.
As a member of Bekins Moving and Storage and United Van Lines, our Kelowna movers have you covered for all your long distance moving needs whether you are moving within BC, Canada or overseas. Call us with your questions and receive a free estimate.