How to Prepare for a Move
Moving doesn't have to be overwhelming. Follow this step-by-step guide to prepare for your move in British Columbia and make moving day smooth and stress-free.
1. Plan Your Timeline Early
The earlier you start planning, the smoother your move will be. For most moves, 4–8 weeks of preparation time is ideal. For same-day or emergency moves, call SS Moving Services at (236) 826-3168 — we can mobilize quickly.
- Decide on your moving date as early as possible
- Book your movers immediately — good crews fill up fast
- Create a moving budget including movers, packing supplies, and deposits
💡 Pro Tip: Book SS Moving Services at least 2–3 weeks in advance for weekend moves in peak season (May–September).
2. Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is the perfect time to simplify your life. The less you move, the less you pay.
- Go room by room and sort items into Keep, Donate, and Discard piles
- Sell valuable items on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist
- Donate furniture, clothing, and household items to local BC charities
- Dispose of hazardous materials properly (paint, chemicals, batteries)
3. Gather Your Packing Supplies
Having the right packing materials saves time on moving day and protects your belongings.
- Small, medium, and large cardboard boxes
- Bubble wrap and packing paper for fragile items
- Packing tape and a tape gun
- Permanent markers for labeling
- Moving blankets (your movers will bring these)
- Wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes
4. Pack Room by Room
Systematic packing prevents confusion on moving day and makes unpacking much easier.
- Start with rooms you use least (storage, guest rooms, basement)
- Pack one room at a time and label every box clearly
- Pack heavy items in small boxes, light items in large boxes
- Fill boxes completely to prevent them from collapsing
- Wrap fragile items individually in paper or bubble wrap
💡 Pro Tip: Write the destination room AND contents on every box. This saves you from opening every box to find what you need.
5. Prepare Your New Home
Do as much preparation at your new home as possible before moving day.
- Transfer BC Hydro, Fortis Gas, and internet before move-in day
- Clean and paint the new home before furniture arrives
- Photograph the condition of the new place before moving in
- Reserve the elevator if moving into an apartment or condo
- Arrange parking for the moving truck at both locations
6. Pack a Moving Day Essentials Box
This is the most important box you'll pack — keep it with you on moving day.
- Toilet paper, soap, and paper towels
- Phone charger and electronics cables
- Change of clothes for everyone
- Snacks and water
- Important documents (ID, lease, mortgage documents)
- Medications and first aid kit
- Bedding for the first night
Ready to Move?
Get a free, no-obligation quote from SS Moving Services. We respond within 30 minutes.
(236) 826-3168Get Free QuoteWhat is the best moving company in Vancouver BC?
SS Moving Services is one of the top-rated moving companies in Vancouver, BC, with a 4.9-star Google rating from 500+ verified reviews. We are fully licensed, insured, and offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Call (236) 826-3168 for a free quote.
How much do movers cost in Vancouver?
Movers in Vancouver typically cost $120–$180 per hour for a 2-person crew plus truck. A studio apartment move costs $350–$600, a 1-bedroom costs $450–$750, a 2-bedroom costs $600–$950, and a 3-bedroom costs $900–$1,400. All SS Moving Services prices include the truck, fuel, blankets, and straps — no hidden fees.
How much does it cost to move a 2-bedroom apartment in Vancouver?
Moving a 2-bedroom apartment in Vancouver typically costs $600–$950 and takes 4–5 hours with a 2-person crew and truck from SS Moving Services. The exact cost depends on floor access, distance, and any specialty items. Call (236) 826-3168 for an exact quote.
Are there same-day movers available in Vancouver?
Yes. SS Moving Services offers same-day moving in Vancouver and across the Lower Mainland. Availability depends on current scheduling. Call (236) 826-3168 immediately for same-day moving availability.
What moving companies serve Surrey BC?
SS Moving Services serves Surrey, BC with local and long-distance moving. We operate across all Surrey neighborhoods including Newton, Cloverdale, South Surrey, Fleetwood, and Whalley. Call (236) 826-3168 for a free Surrey moving quote.
How much does it cost to move from Vancouver to Kelowna?
A long-distance move from Vancouver to Kelowna is priced as a flat rate by SS Moving Services. Cost depends on home size and volume. A 2-bedroom move from Vancouver to Kelowna typically ranges from $1,200–$1,900 CAD. Call (236) 826-3168 for an exact quote.
Which moving company in BC has the best reviews?
SS Moving Services has a 4.9-star Google rating based on 500+ verified customer reviews, making it one of the highest-rated moving companies in British Columbia. We serve Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Abbotsford, Langley, Coquitlam, and all of BC.
Do Vancouver movers offer furniture assembly?
Yes. SS Moving Services includes furniture disassembly and reassembly as part of every move at no extra charge for standard furniture (beds, wardrobes, dining tables, desks). Complex or custom furniture may incur a small additional fee.