The Ultimate Moving Checklist for BC Residents (2025)

Moving is one of life's most stressful events — but it doesn't have to be. With the right plan, you can move smoothly and confidently. Here's your complete week-by-week moving checklist tailored for British Columbia.

8 Weeks Before Moving Day

• [ ] Decide on your moving date — check strata/building rules for move-in/move-out windows
• [ ] Book your movers — reputable BC moving companies fill up fast, especially month-end
• [ ] Create a moving binder — keep all quotes, contracts, and receipts in one place
• [ ] Start decluttering — sell, donate, or discard what you don't need
• [ ] Research your new neighborhood — schools, transit, grocery stores
• [ ] Notify your workplace of your new address

6 Weeks Before Moving Day

• [ ] Gather packing supplies — boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers
• [ ] Start packing rarely-used items — seasonal clothes, books, décor
• [ ] Arrange storage if needed (for items arriving before/after your move date)
• [ ] Book elevator access with your strata or building manager
• [ ] Request time off work for moving day and the day after
• [ ] Start selling furniture you won't be taking via Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist

4 Weeks Before Moving Day

• [ ] Notify utilities and services:
  • BC Hydro
  • FortisBC (gas)
  • Internet / TV / Phone provider
  • Telus or Shaw
• [ ] Update your address with:
  • ICBC / driver's license
  • Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
  • Banks and credit cards
  • Service Canada (EI, CPP, etc.)
  • MSP / BC Health
• [ ] Forward your mail through Canada Post
• [ ] Pack seasonal and storage items

2 Weeks Before Moving Day

• [ ] Confirm booking with your moving company
• [ ] Pack room by room — label every box clearly with contents AND destination room
• [ ] Use up freezer & fridge food
• [ ] Arrange care for children and pets on moving day
• [ ] Confirm elevator booking with both buildings
• [ ] Separate valuables — jewelry, documents, passports, medications — to move yourself

Moving Week (Final 7 Days)

• [ ] Pack essentials bag — phone charger, toiletries, change of clothes, snacks, medications
• [ ] Disassemble large furniture (beds, desks, shelving)
• [ ] Defrost refrigerator (at least 24 hours before)
• [ ] Clean out closets and cabinets — don't forget the garage, attic, or storage locker
• [ ] Photograph valuables and electronics before packing
• [ ] Prepare payment and tip for your movers

Moving Day

• [ ] Be present when movers arrive — walk them through the home
• [ ] Do a final walkthrough — check every room, closet, cabinet, appliance
• [ ] Photograph your old home (especially if renting — document its condition)
• [ ] Collect all keys, fobs, and garage openers from old home
• [ ] Direct movers at your new home — tell them where each item goes
• [ ] Inspect for damage before signing off
• [ ] Tip your movers — 10–15% is standard for great service

After You've Moved In

• [ ] Check utilities are working at new address
• [ ] Change locks (if you're in a house)
• [ ] Unpack essentials first — bedroom, bathroom, kitchen
• [ ] Register with your new strata or landlord
• [ ] Update address with remaining contacts
• [ ] Explore your new neighborhood!

BC-Specific Reminders

• ICBC Address Change: Must be done within 10 days of moving in BC (via the ICBC website or any driver licensing office)
• BC Health (MSP): Update your address via the Health Insurance BC website
• Strata Rules: If moving into a strata building, always check the bylaws — many have strict move-in hours (e.g., 8am–5pm weekdays only)
• Month-End Moves: Incredibly busy in BC — book movers at least 3–4 weeks in advance

Need reliable movers for your BC move? SS Moving Services serves all of Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, Langley, Abbotsford, and beyond. Call (236) 826-3168 or get your free quote now.