June 17, 2025
Your Ultimate Moving Checklist for a Stress-Free Relocation in Vancouver
Moving homes in Vancouver can be an exciting new chapter, but let’s face it, it can also be a bit overwhelming. From packing and paperwork to cleaning and coordinating, there’s a lot to think about. Whether you’re moving into a downtown condo, a family home in East Van, or a rental in Mount Pleasant, having a clear plan can make all the difference.
This practical moving checklist can make the process more manageable. This guide will walk you through each step of your move, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
6–8 Weeks Before Moving Day
1. Create a Moving Binder
Organize all your moving-related documents, receipts, and notes in one place. This will help you keep track of estimates, contracts, and important contacts.
2. Research Moving Companies
Start researching reputable Vancouver moving companies. Obtain at least three quotes, check reviews, and confirm their availability for your preferred moving date.
3. Declutter Your Home
Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. Reducing the number of items to move can save time and money.
4. Notify Landlord or Property Manager
If you’re renting, provide the required notice to your landlord or property manager about your move-out date.
4–5 Weeks Before Moving Day
1. Gather Packing Supplies
Collect boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, markers, and labels. Consider eco-friendly options or ask local stores for spare boxes.
2. Begin Packing Non-Essential Items
Start packing items you don’t use daily, such as seasonal clothing, books, and decorative pieces.
3. Label Boxes Clearly
Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will make unpacking more efficient.
4. Schedule Utility Transfers
Arrange for utilities like electricity, gas, water, and internet to be transferred to your new address effective on your moving day.
2–3 Weeks Before Moving Day
1. Confirm Moving Details
Reconfirm the moving date, time, and logistics with your chosen moving company.
2. Continue Packing
Pack remaining items, leaving out essentials you’ll need until moving day.
3. Arrange for Child and Pet Care
If necessary, organize care for your children and pets on moving day to ensure their safety and reduce stress.
4. Plan for Cleaning Services
Cleaning is a crucial part of any move. Hiring a professional cleaning service ensures your home is spotless, saves you time, and gives you peace of mind.
You’ll need to know which cleaning service works best, whether you’re handing over keys to a landlord or settling into a new space.
Move-out cleans are designed to help renters secure their full deposit by meeting landlord expectations. Move-in cleans make sure your new home is hygienic and fresh before you unpack. And if you’re selling, open house cleaning gives your property a polished look to impress prospective buyers.
“We’ve helped hundreds of Vancouver residents with move-related cleaning, and the biggest difference is peace of mind,” says Martina, a cleaning expert at CleanCa cleaning services.
“Whether you’re trying to get your deposit back or preparing for an open house, having a professional clean done right saves time and ensures nothing gets overlooked.”
1 Week Before Moving Day
1. Pack an Essentials Box
Prepare a box with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, basic kitchenware, and important documents.
2. Defrost and Clean Appliances
Defrost your refrigerator and freezer, and clean all appliances to prepare them for the move.
3. Dispose of Hazardous Materials
Safely dispose of items that can’t be moved, like paint, propane, and certain cleaning supplies.
4. Confirm Cleaning Appointments
Double-check the dates and times for your scheduled cleaning services to ensure everything is on track.
Moving Day
1. Do a Final Walkthrough
Inspect your home to ensure nothing is left behind and all windows and doors are secured.
2. Supervise the Move
Be present to oversee the loading process, answer questions, and provide directions to the movers.
3. Keep Important Items with You
Carry valuable items, important documents, and the essentials box with you instead of placing them on the moving truck.
4. Clean the Empty Home
After all items are moved out, perform a final clean or have CleanCa cleaning services handle it to ensure the space is ready for the next occupants.
After the Move
1. Unpack Essentials First
Start by unpacking the essentials box to make your first night comfortable.
2. Check Utilities
Ensure all utilities are functioning properly in your new home.
3. Update Your Address
Notify Canada Post, banks, insurance providers, and other relevant parties of your new address.
4. Explore Your New Neighbourhood
Take time to familiarize yourself with local amenities, such as grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and public transportation.
A well-organized move can significantly reduce stress and make the transition to your new Vancouver home smoother. The expert team at CleanCa is here to assist with professional move-in and move-out cleaning services, ensuring your homes are spotless and welcoming.