Rental Moving Guide
How to plan your move, set up utilities, and settle into your new home.
Before You Move
Proper planning makes moving less stressful. Start preparing at least 4-6 weeks before your move date.
8 Weeks Before
- Research moving companies and get quotes
- Book movers early—peak season fills up fast
- Start collecting packing supplies
- Notify your landlord of move-out date
- Request time off work for moving day
6 Weeks Before
- Start packing non-essential items
- Research utility providers at your new address
- Request address change from Canada Post
- Notify insurance companies of your move
- Research schools if you have children
4 Weeks Before
- Start packing room by room
- Confirm your new address with utility companies
- Notify important contacts of your address change
- Arrange for childcare on moving day if needed
2 Weeks Before
- Confirm all arrangements with moving company
- Disconnect utilities at old address
- Connect utilities at new address
- Pack most of your belongings
- Confirm parking permits for moving truck
1 Week Before
- Finish packing and label boxes
- Defrost and clean the freezer
- Confirm elevator booking if in an apartment
- Prepare an essentials box for moving day
- Double-check your new unit is ready
Moving Day
- Do a final walkthrough of old place
- Take photos of utility meter readings
- Hand over keys to landlord or new tenant
- Direct movers where to place boxes
- Check that nothing is left behind
Setting Up Utilities
Contact utility companies 2-4 weeks before moving:
- Electricity — Contact your local utility provider
- Gas — Enbridge (Ontario), Terriers (Quebec), FortisBC
- Water — Contact your municipality
- Internet — Book installation early for fastest dates
Change of Address Checklist
- Canada Post — Mail forwarding
- Bank and credit cards
- Insurance (car, home, life)
- Employer
- School or university
- Doctor and health providers
- Subscriptions (magazines, streaming)
- Government services (CRA, health card)
Settling In
After moving day, focus on these tasks:
- Unpack essentials first—kitchen, bathroom, bedroom
- Do a move-in inspection with your landlord
- Document any existing damage with photos
- Register for waste and recycling
- Learn your building rules and amenities
- Meet your neighbours
- Explore your new neighbourhood
Moving Costs Breakdown
- Professional movers — $200-$2,000+ depending on distance
- Rental truck — $50-$200 plus mileage
- Packing supplies — $50-$200 for boxes, tape, bubble wrap
- Cleaning supplies — $30-$100
- Deposits — Utility deposits may be required
Money-Saving Tips
- Move mid-month or mid-week—cheaper rates
- Book during off-season (fall/winter)
- Compare quotes from multiple movers
- Ask friends for help instead of professionals
- Use free boxes from grocery stores
- Donate unwanted items for tax receipts