Smart Moving Tips
Moving to or from a new home can be an exciting but also overwhelming experience, especially if you're navigating packing, organizing and settling in all at once. Whether you're relocating across town or to a new province, these helpful moving tips may make your transition smoother and more stress-free.
Prepare & Plan
Planning and preparing is key to a smooth move. Creating a plan can help you keep on track to that move. Remember to add a little buffer time as packing can take a little longer than expected. Begin organizing your move at least 4–6 weeks in advance. Create a timeline with key dates, including when to start packing, when to book movers and when to update your address. Moving day will come up fast. Having a timeline and sticking to it will help you stay on track to an easy move.
Set a budget
Moving boxes and supplies can add up and be an unforecasted cost. Take a moment to look at what you need and how much it will cost. Check kijiji & Marketplace for moving boxes, as often others moving will give them away. It will save you on your budget.
Start packing early
If you are moving in the summer, pack all your winter things and vice versa. Anything you don’t need immediately, pack them up ahead of time.
Hire a local moving company
Choosing a reputable Victoria-based moving company ensures local knowledge and smoother logistics. Look for companies with strong reviews, proper insurance and experience navigating narrow residential streets or heritage neighbourhoods.
When recommending Moving Companies to anyone, we can't be certain it will be an experience that will reflect well, as Movers seem to be a conflict for many people for an assortment of reasons. None the less, here are a couple of local companies I would recommend as options for Movers.
2 Burley Men
785 Lampson St.
Victoria, BC.
1-844-849-4558
info@burleymen.ca
https://2burleymen.ca
You Move Me
110-3934 Quadra St., Victoria, BC.
778-746-6340
vancouverisland@youvmoveme.com
https://www.youmoveme.com/ca/vancouver-island-movers
Declutter
Moving is a perfect time to declutter and downsize. Donate, sell or recycle those things you haven’t used in years. Cleanse your wardrobe of clothes that don’t fit any longer. It will save you time, effort and moving costs.
Label Boxes
On each box, write not just the room it belongs in, but also a summary of its contents. This will make unpacking much easier and reduce the chaos once you arrive in your new space.
Pack an Essentials Box
Set aside a box of essentials for your first few days—think toiletries, basic kitchen items, paper plates, coffee maker, sheets, pillows, chargers, snacks, bedding and a change of clothes. You don’t want to dig through ten boxes just to find your toothbrush. A first night box will be helpful to get you through the first night and the next morning.
Protect your belongings
Victoria’s weather is generally mild, but rain is always a possibility. Use plastic bins or cover cardboard boxes with plastic sheeting if rain is in the forecast. Wrap fragile items carefully and mark them clearly.
Take measurements beforehand
If possible, visit your new home in advance to measure rooms, doorways, and staircases. This ensures large furniture will fit—and helps avoid any moving-day surprises.
Get to know your neighbourhood
Whether you’re settling into Fernwood, Oak Bay or Langford, explore local shops, parks and cafes.
Update your address
Remember to notify Canada Post, your bank, insurance providers, utilities and any subscription services of your new address. Many people forget this until a missed bill arrives!
Essential Address Changes
- Healthcare cards and Drivers Licence
- Utilities
- Cable, Phone, Cell Phone and Internet
- Mail forwarding
- Canada Revenue Agency
- Financial institutions, credit cards companies, and banks
- Car insurance company
- Home or renters insurance company
- Dentists and doctors
- Schools and Daycares
- Magazine Subscriptions
- Clubs and organizations
Here is a link to our recommended Service Providers as well as a MOVING CHECKLIST that is printable and may be another good resource for you.
Click on the image below
Work with a trusted Realtor
Need Help Moving To or Within Vancouver Island? I'm here to guide you every step of the way from your first showing to your first night in your new home. I won't just help you find your perfect home, I will also connect you with local resources, tradespeople and moving professionals to make your Reach out today for personalized advice to make your move seamless.
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