The ultimate to-do checklist to make moving day a breeze

Some people prepare for moving at the last minute. Others begin way ahead. Whatever your style, here's the ultimate to-do checklist to make moving day a breeze.

To help you get ready for the big day, here's the ultimate to-do checklist. Print it out and hang it on the fridge. Then start packing! Don't forget to cross items off the list as they're completed. You'll enjoy a sense of accomplishment each time you do.

Current accounts

• Cell phone
• Home phone
• Television
• Internet
• Electricity, gas or water utilities
• Credit cards

Other changes of address

• Bank, financial advisor
• Insurance
• Work
• School
• Lawyer, notary, accountant
  

Federal and provincial government

• Revenue agency
• Health insurance
• Family allowance
• Pensions
• Driver's license and registration
• Electoral list

• If you rent, notify your landlord of the moving date as soon as possible.
• Gather empty boxes from grocery stores, pharmacies and convenience stores.
• Locate a moving company or specialized mover to help move your piano, spa, aquarium or any other difficult-to-move items.
• "Book" your friends and family to help you on moving day.
• Shop around for insurance for your new home before renewing with your current company. The same goes for telecommunications service providers.
• Find someone to watch the children and pets on moving day.
• Request a mail-forwarding service through the post office.
• Sort, give away or discard anything you don’t need to take with you.
• Create a packing schedule to avoid being overwhelmed at the last minute. Keep in mind: packing always takes longer than we think.
• Properly label all your boxes.
• Fill a few boxes with everyday items you’ll need on your first days settling into the new home.
• Clear out the shed, garage and attic.
• Plan to take a day off work if necessary.
• Take pictures of your valuables in case of damage during the move.
• Shop for any new furniture you need and book the delivery date.
• Enroll your children in their new school.
• Start putting money aside for the moving company and to cover other costs, such as connection fees.
• If you move into a building, reserve the elevator.

• Finish packing; dismantle furniture and lamps and other decorative accessories.
• Pack up the curtains.
• Empty out the freezer and let it defrost if necessary.
• Clean the house to leave it in good condition.
• Round up all the duplicate keys.

• Unplug your appliances.
• Pick up the truck.
• Stack all the boxes and furniture in the room closest to the door.
• Reserve a parking space for the truck at both the old and the new address.
• Make a final inspection of the house, including closets and cabinets.
• Lock all doors.
• Replace the keys.
• Last (but not least) have cash on hand for pizza and maybe beer to celebrate a successful move and your new home!