Open ProvincesMoving day: packing, truck and handoff checklist
Protect essentials, label boxes by destination, confirm access and equipment, and document the condition of both homes before handing over keys.
Adapted from a guide first written for Quebec readers: passages specific to Quebec were removed. Rules in your province may differ.
A smoother move is mostly about reducing decisions on the busiest day. Keep the essentials separate, make the route through both homes clear and confirm access, equipment and responsibilities before the truck arrives.
Before loading
- Confirm arrival times, addresses, parking and building access with movers or helpers.
- Measure large furniture and protect floors, doorways, elevators and stair rails.
- Keep identification, keys, medication, chargers, important documents, valuables and a change of clothes with you.
- Label boxes with the destination room and a short contents list; mark fragile items clearly without hiding the label under tape.
- Photograph the condition of the old and new homes and note any damage or access issue.
Load and unload in a useful order
Load items you will need last first, and keep a clear path to the door and exit. Do not overload boxes or ask anyone to carry an item that is too heavy or unsafe. At the new home, place boxes directly in their rooms and keep the first-night bag and basic cleaning supplies accessible.
Close out both addresses
- Check every room, closet, storage area and appliance before leaving.
- Record meter readings or take photos where relevant and follow the instructions of each utility provider.
- Return keys, access cards and remotes using the agreed method.
- Update the address with government services, financial institutions, insurers, employers, schools and regular providers as needed.
- Keep receipts, the mover's contract and any written damage report together until the move is resolved.
If you hired movers, review the written estimate, inventory and service terms before the move, and contact the company promptly if an item is missing or damaged. For address changes, use the official service of each organization rather than assuming one notification updates every file.
Sources and limits
General moving checklist. The contract, building rules, utility procedures and remedies depend on the service and address; confirm them with the relevant provider before moving day.
General information based on federal and national rules; provincial rules may differ. Confirm with the official body before acting.