Congratulations on the purchase of your new home!  You’re ready to start a new chapter in your life!  Moving to a new home is so exciting – a chance to declutter and start fresh. At Geranium Homes, we’ve had the opportunity to share in the joy of moving into a new home with more than 8000 families.  And we’re pleased to share a simple checklist of useful tips that will help make moving a smoother transition.

8 Weeks Before Your Move
Start a Moving File
Your first step should be to create a file that can hold every detail of your upcoming move. Use a sturdy box or folder to keep all the important documents and receipts in.  Don’t rely solely on your computer, as there will be times during the move where you may not be able to access things immediately.

Research Moving Companies
As soon as you know the “when” it’s time to hire a moving company. Make sure to ask if the company is insured and if they hire full or part time movers, rather than temporary movers as this can affect the quality of your move.  Stay within your budget, but do your homework.  Often cheapest isn’t always the best. Here’s a consumer checklist for choosing a moving company.  If you’re going to move yourself, it’s time to contact the local rental agencies.  Don’t just assume that they will have a vehicle available the day before you move.

7 Weeks Before Your Move
Create a Floor Plan
Draw a floor plan of every room of your new home, and then take a look at your existing furniture.  It’s helpful to know early on if and where those favourite pieces are going to fit in your new home.

Make an Inventory List
Once you’ve gone through your floor plan, it’s time to make a list of the items you’re going to bring to your new home.  Figure out how you’re going to pack and move them, some things will need special attention such as electronics, valuables or extra large items.  There are many checklists available online that can get you started.

Loving this printable home inventory checklist!

Get your Packing Supplies
Start looking at what packing supplies you’ll need. Bubble wrap, boxes and tape are essential but may be overlooked in the excitement of packing. Make a list, and start getting those supplies now.

Check out these tips on where to find moving boxes free of charge!

6 Weeks Before Your Move
Take pictures
Before you move or pack anything, take pictures of your current home as snapshots to look back on. Especially if this was your first home, it’s a place that you’ll always hold dear to your heart. It may also help with planning your décor in your new home!

Sell, Donate & Throw Away Unnecessary Items
When in doubt, toss it out!  It may be hard, but it’s time to discard items you no longer need. This will make it easier when you’re moving and in the long run be less expensive. A good way to get rid of unwanted items is having a yard sale, not only will it clear the clutter but will bring in some last minute cash. If a yard sale’s not for you, simply donate those items to local charities or homes in need.

5 Weeks Before Your Move
Label Boxes
By properly labeling which room each box should go in you’ll save time and headaches. It may seem like a minor detail, but you’ll thank yourself on moving day. Assign different colour duct tape or stickers to each room so that the boxes are easier to identify.  We’ve got some label templates on your Pinterest board that may help.

Talk to your Children
This can be a difficult time for kids; especially if you are moving away from the only home they’ve known. Get them excited about the move by letting them be part of the decision-making process.  Be sure to keep them up to date with all moving information and give them an idea of what will happen on moving day.

4 Weeks Before Your Move
Notify Utilities
With just one month to go, make sure you contact utility companies and arrange for transfer of services.

File Change of Address
Notify all banks, insurance companies, service providers and creditors of your address change. This can be done easily by contacting Canada Post.

3 Weeks And Counting
Eat Frozen/Perishable Food 
Consuming your frozen/perishable foods will not only save you money during these hectic few weeks but it will also make it easier when you’re moving.  It’s also a good excuse to invite some of your closest neighbours over and say “goodbye” with a fun potluck!

Pet TLC
This is a good time to take your pets to the veterinarian and ensure their shots are up to date.  Moving can be extremely stressful for pets, and your vet could offer some good advice for a smooth move.  We found some great tips to help your pet with the move.

Here are some great tips for moving your pets!

2 More Weeks
Finish Packing
Pack important and sentimental items so they are easily accessible.  Attaching a list of contents to the outside of the box can prove a lifesaver as moving day draws nearer.

Confirm Move
Make sure to reconnect with your movers to discuss your move times and confirm the expected cost for your move.

Scout Essential Stores
Take the time to scout out your new neighbourhood and create a quick list of places to shop for those last minute supplies after the move. Also, jot down some nearby places to eat, or to get take-out, the last thing you want to worry about is cooking and cleaning dishes during your move.

1 Week To Go
Defrost Appliances
Refrigerators and freezers are some of the most difficult appliances to move from one house to another. Defrosting these appliances before moving day can save you the inconvenience of problems like ice and condensation.

One Last Clean
Cleaning the inside of your home before moving out is simply common courtesy. Make the task easier by following these simple steps. New homeowners understand that spending a lot of time on cleaning is the least priority, however a nice alternative is hiring a cleaning service.

The Day Before
Pack a Bin of Essentials
Put together a bin filled with things you’ll need immediately after you move in. You can include things like: garbage bags, scissors, wet wipes, paper towels, toilet paper, paper plates/cups, plastic forks, knives and spoons and don’t forget the soap, hand and dish soap. Place this bin in the car, that way you have immediate access to it once you’ve arrived at your new home.

Thanks to Hip2Save for their amazing Essential Bin idea!

Take a deep breath
Moving can be a very exciting time, take the time to enjoy your new space while you open a box (or two). Here’s a checklist of the things to consider for your first night in a new house.

Time to celebrate the memories you’ve made in your home and start making new ones. Cheers to a smooth move!