Your Go-To Checklist for Long Distance Moving

Moving long-distance is always an adventure, where the horizon holds the promise of fresh opportunities. Whether you're moving across the state or to another country, this journey requires meticulous planning, as you pack up your life and head towards a new chapter. The key to a successful transition lies in step-by-step preparation. And if you don’t know where to start, we’re here to help sort through the chaos of organization of the moving process.

Motivational speaker Brian Tracy once said, "A clear vision, backed by definite plans, gives you a tremendous feeling of confidence and personal power." With this mindset, we'll guide you through the essential stages of relocation to guarantee your long-distance move will be as smooth as you would want it to. Our detailed checklist will help you navigate this significant life change with maximum confidence.

Plan your budget

Despite the fact that local and long distance moving require carrying out identical preparatory tasks, it’s needed to be more forward-looking, if you plan to move over a long distance. This is because long-distance relocation significantly impacts the overall cost of the process — from packing the cargo to its direct transportation.

The average cost of such a move starts from $1000 CAD and can reach $10000 CAD or even more. Yes, these are substantial expenses, and if you want to avoid additional costs, it’s important to plan everything from start to finish as much as possible.

The most logical step in planning a move is to identify your primary needs. Specifically, you should decide whether you will move by yourself or hire professional movers.

The first option provides complete freedom of action since you can move at your own pace without coordinating with a moving company. Additionally, you don’t need to pay more for packing, loading and other services of the removalists, so the final price will be lower.

But look at the other side of this question. Do you have the necessary skills and patience to accomplish all stages of the moving process solo? Of course, the moving cost may increase due to assistance from the specially trained movers, but you gain significant savings of time and physical effort, and most importantly, ensure peace of mind for your belongings. Both variants have their advantages, and the choice is up to you.

If you’re moving into a rental property, don’t forget to include the security deposit and rent payments for the first and last months in your planned expenses.

Consider your general insurance as well. Moving companies offer basic insurance coverage, but we recommend opting for full insurance. This way, you will have guaranteed compensation in case of damage or loss of your belongings.

Create a moving timeline

A well-structured moving schedule allows you to complete all tasks on time without overlooking any details.

• Start planning early. The more time you have, the better it will be. Ideally, begin the preparation process at least 2 or 3 months before the big day comes.
• Create a packing schedule. Consider the complexity of this process, especially if you have a lot of belongings and bulky furniture.
• Break down tasks into small pieces. Create a week-by-week plan and move toward your goal consistently. Tick completed tasks off to track your progress.

Choose a moving company

Choosing a team of movers that meets your requirements is a critical aspect of planning. To ensure the moving company isn’t the cat in the bag, carefully research the following information:

• Research the company’s history, paying special attention to how long they have been in business. Read testimonials from previous clients to form your own opinion on the professionalism of the company.
• Review the list of services provided. Compare what you need with what the company can offer.
• Ask friends and colleagues for referrals. Opinions of people you trust are incredibly valuable.
• Compare moving costs from several companies. Take your time to make a decision. Evaluate offers from three companies or more to select the best option.
• Examine the contract for moving carefully. Follow the golden rule: measure twice, cut once. Be sure to read the fine print.

To save you time and effort, our platform offers a relevant selection of moving companies based on your current region of residence. You can quickly compare current offers, review key information, and get a FREE estimation of moving cost from each company you are interested in.

Inventory and declutter your current home

Conduct an inventory of all your belongings at home. Decide what you take with you and what you need to sell, donate, or discard. If you haven't used certain items for several months or more, the likelihood that you'll need them in your new place is very low.

Be aware that there are certain items that are prohibited for transport, such as flammable materials, houseplants, etc. Carefully review this list, which is typically provided by the moving company.

It's also a good idea to get rid of broken furniture and other unusable items. Remember that the cost of moving increases significantly with the number of belongings you transport.

Gather packing supplies

Purchase packing materials and tools in advance to be fully prepared when it's time to pack and load your belongings into the truck.

Essential items include:

• Cardboard boxes of various sizes
• Packing tape
• Bubble wrap
• Tool kit and sharp scissors
• Moving blankets and furniture pads
• Hand cart or dolly
• Mattress covers and floor protectors

Don’t forget colored markers for labeling boxes with their contents.

Disassemble furniture

Disassembled furniture makes handling easier, allowing you to manoeuver its pieces through doorways, hallways, and staircases with less risk of damage. Besides, small items take up less space in the moving truck, which can lead to a more efficient use of space and lower moving costs.

Furniture items to disassemble include beds, tables, chairs, sofas or recliners, bookshelves, and cabinets.

Pack and label all belongings

Pack items according to categories. For example, place kitchen utensils in one box and label it “Kitchen”. Repeat this process for each room separately. This approach will save you time when organizing and unpacking at your new location.

It's also important to follow these rules:

• Use bubble wrap to protect fragile items and furniture pads to protect any furniture.
• Fill in the empty spaces in boxes with packing paper to stop items from shifting.
• Avoid overpacking boxes to prevent them from breaking.
• Pack heavy belongings in smaller boxes and light objects in larger boxes.

Continue labelling boxes as you pack. You can use numbering or colour-coding.

Prepare essentials boxes

These boxes will be placed on top of the main load or transported in your car. They should contain items that you'll need during the move and in the first few days after it.

An approximate list includes:

1. Personal care products
2. First aid kit
3. Change of clothes
4. Set of bed linens
5. Pyjamas

Stack all important documents in a separate folder and keep it with you for quick access if needed.

Change your address on all paperwork

• You can do this in four convenient ways: online, by phone, in person, or by mail.
• Update your postal address.
• Notify your bank and insurance company of the change and update your account details.
• Inform your primary physician about your move and request copies of your medical records.

Experts recommend doing it at least 1-2 weeks before your move, so all information will be fully updated by the time you arrive at your new place of residence.

Transfer utilities and services

During the preparation for leaving your current home, don’t forget to arrange and set up your new place.

• Create a list of utilities providers. This includes electricity, natural gas, water and sewer, internet and cable TV, trash removal, etc.
• Notify each utility company of the exact move date, so these services will be transferred to the new address or stopped.
• Plan utilities installation at your new home in advance. Plan so that utilities and services are installed a few days before your move.

Plan for children and pets

Make sure that the move will be as smooth as possible for your family members. Discuss all aspects of the move with your children, emphasizing the positive aspects. Remember that a radical change of scenery can be particularly stressful for the fragile psyche of the child.

• Initiate the transfer of your child’s school records from their current school to the new one.
• If you have pets, get vaccination records from your veterinarian and prepare essential items, including animal food, drinking water, and medications.

Hire a long-distance car shipping company

Choosing a transportation company follows a similar approach to selecting a moving company. Structure all information based on the following points:

• Time in business
• Number of positive and negative reviews
• Licensing
• Cost of services

Compare the information and choose the company that inspires confidence and offers transparent pricing.

Withdraw cash

Cash may be useful for paying for things like tips for the movers, emergency supplies, or parking fees, especially if electronic payment methods face any issues.

The amount of cash you withdraw should cover potential immediate expenses. Typically, withdrawing from $100 CAD to $500 CAD might be sufficient based on your anticipated needs.

Clean your home

Cleaning your home isn’t just a common courtesy. It also helps prevent conflicts with your landlord.

• Gather cleaning supplies. You’ll need glass cleaner, bathroom and sink cleaning powder, and microfiber cloths. Additionally, make sure you have a broom and vacuum cleaner on hand.
• Start with the kitchen. This room is often the dirtiest in the home and requires the most time to clean. Wash the refrigerator, microwave, and oven. Wipe down the countertops and shelves in the cabinets.
• Move to the bathroom. Remove mould and dirt, scrub tiles, and disinfect the toilet bowl.
• Proceed to cleaning the living room and bedroom. Wipe off the dust on all surfaces; vacuum, and wash the floors.
• Clean the remaining areas. These include the attic and garage. Don’t forget to tidy up the backyard as well.
• Complete the remaining tasks. Clean windows and light fixtures. Replace any burnt-out light bulbs with new ones.

Be ready for a moving day

The preparation process is complete, but the most exciting stage — moving day — is still ahead. Nevertheless, don't let your emotions take over: if you’ve followed the steps outlined above, there’s nothing to worry about!

To ensure that the big day goes smoothly without shaky hands and a chaotic mind, remember the most important things:

• Focus on the positive aspects of your move. The right mindset and motivation are a recipe for success.
• Wake up early. Spend the morning enjoying yourself. Have a hearty breakfast and brew a cup of aromatic coffee or tea. Morning routine fills with energy and gives courage for the entire day.
• Welcome movers and provide any necessary instructions. Clarify all details, even those that might seem minor.

Eventually, allow yourself to savour the journey — every box packed, every room cleaned, every question answered — because these are the stepping stones to your fresh start.

The adventure is waiting for you. Good luck with your relocation!