It’s tempting to wait until the last minute to plan your move. But planning in advance for such a big event can make the process much smoother. Here are some tips to make your move that much easier:
Movers and moving truck
As soon as you know the date of your move to your new residence, start shopping around for your mover or moving truck. You can then estimate the time and costs for the move. If you choose to move by yourself, take time to ask your family and friends about their availability.
Cleaning, furniture and boxes
It’s never too early to start throwing out household objects you haven’t used in years. And since it takes time to organize cherished items, you can start this step even before you think about moving. There are many associations that would be happy to take your clothing and objects in good condition. If you can, take a first tour of your future apartment to get its dimensions and capacity. You can then assess your needs and decide what stays and what goes. As soon as you come across an item you rarely use or that you can go without for a long period, take the time to pack it in a box that is clearly labelled. This will help you avoid spending hours looking for it again.
Get a large quantity of boxes in different sizes (mostly small boxes to avoid injuries from heavy boxes), packing tape, labels, and paper (e.g., newspaper) to pack fragile objects. Don’t hesitate to ask your family to help you pack.
Change your address
Two weeks before you move, take the time to advise your family and friends about your new address. You should also call different organizations and companies: bank, credit cards, telephone and/or Internet service provider, cable company, doctor, dentist, and magazines and newspapers you have a subscription to.
You can notify the Government of Quebec by contacting the Service québécois de changement d’adresse at 514-644-4545, 1-877-644-4545. In a single step, you can advise six ministries and agencies of your new contact information:
- Régie des rentes
- Société de l’assurance automobile
- Revenu Québec
- Directeur général des élections du Québec
- Régie de l’assurance maladie
- Ministère de l'Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale
The address change service offered by the Government of Quebec is not offered by the Government of Canada. You will therefore need to notify each the following ministries of your address change:
- Revenue Canada
- Old Age Security
- Canada Pension Plan
Canada Post offers a service to help you avoid losing mailed bills or documents. For about $40, Canada Post can redirect your and your family’s mail (maximum of 4 names per registration) to your new address for 6 months. Ideally, you need to notify them 7 working days before you move. Simply fill out the notice of address change form at your local post office. This service is very useful if you forget to advise a company or organization of your move. Each letter addressed to your old place means you forgot to advise someone of your change of address.
Keep in mind that it is never too early to plan a move. A smart approach is to start as early as possible so that you enjoy your new home and future activities right away.