Calgary Moving Checklist: 8 Weeks Before Your Move

Moving to a new home in Calgary is an exciting prospect, but the process can quickly become overwhelming without proper organization. Breaking down the tasks into a manageable timeline is key to a stress-free move. This comprehensive 8-week moving checklist is designed to guide you through every step, from initial planning to settling into your new Calgary residence.

8 Weeks Before Your Calgary Move: The Planning Phase

Calgary's dynamic housing market and specific seasonal considerations (hello, winter!) make planning crucial. Starting eight weeks out gives you ample time to research, book reputable local Calgary movers, declutter effectively, and handle the dozens of small tasks involved. Procrastination leads to rushed decisions, potential extra costs, and unnecessary moving day chaos. By following this timeline, you empower yourself to stay organized, make informed choices, and ensure a seamless transition to your new Calgary home.

Weeks 8-7: Laying the Foundation

The initial phase is about getting organized and making key decisions.

• Establish a Central Command: Your Moving Binder/Digital Folder: This is non-negotiable. Create a physical binder or a dedicated digital folder (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox) to store *everything* related to your move. This includes:
  • Mover estimates and confirmations (Compare quotes from at least three Calgary moving companies).
  • Receipts for moving supplies and related expenses (some might be tax-deductible!).
  • Contact information for movers, real estate agents, landlords, utility companies.
  • Floor plans of your new home (if available).
  • Inventory lists (especially important for insurance).
  • This checklist!
  Having everything in one place prevents frantic searching later. Use dividers or subfolders for different categories.
• Budgeting for Your Calgary Move: Moving costs more than just the movers' fees. Create a realistic budget encompassing: (For a detailed breakdown, read our guide to Calgary moving costs for 2025.)
  • Hiring Calgary Movers: Get detailed quotes specifying hourly rates, travel time, fuel surcharges, and estimates for total hours based on your home size (e.g., moving a 3-bedroom house in NW Calgary). Consider if you need packing services.
  • Packing Supplies: Boxes (various sizes), packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, markers. Estimate costs – you might need more than you think! Look for used boxes on local Calgary forums, but ensure they're sturdy.
  • Temporary Storage: If there's a gap between move-out and move-in, factor in costs for a Calgary storage unit.
  • Cleaning Services: For your old place (required by some leases) and potentially your new one.
  • Utility Transfer/Setup Fees: Check with providers like Enmax, ATCO, and your internet/TV provider.
  • Contingency Fund: Aim for 10-15% extra for unexpected costs (e.g., needing extra packing materials, mover time running over).
  Track expenses against your budget in your moving binder.
• Research, Vet, and Book Your Calgary Movers: This is arguably the most critical step. Don't wait! Calgary's moving season peaks in summer and month-ends.
  • Get Recommendations: Ask friends, family, or colleagues in Calgary for referrals.
  • Check Online Reviews: Look at Google, HomeStars, and BBB for reviews of specific Calgary moving companies. Pay attention to comments about professionalism, punctuality, and handling of belongings.
  • Verify Credentials: Ensure the company is licensed, insured (ask for proof of WCB and liability insurance), and has a physical address in Calgary. Avoid brokers who just subcontract work.
  • Get In-Home or Video Estimates: For accuracy, reputable movers will offer free estimates based on viewing your belongings. Be wary of quotes given solely over the phone without seeing the scope.
  • Understand Pricing: Clarify hourly rates, minimum charges, travel time policies, and potential extra fees (stairs, heavy items like pianos, fuel surcharges).
  • Book Early: Once you've chosen a reliable company like Move Calgary Now, book your desired moving date and time, especially if moving during peak season. Get a written confirmation.
• The Great Calgary Declutter: Phase One: Moving less stuff saves money and effort. Start the decluttering process now. Be ruthless!
  • Go Room by Room: Tackle one area at a time (closet, basement, garage).
  • The Four-Box Method: Use four categories: Keep, Donate, Sell, Discard/Recycle.
  • Donate: Research Calgary charities accepting donations (e.g., WINS, Diabetes Canada, Cerebral Palsy Association in Alberta). Check their drop-off requirements.
  • Sell: Use Kijiji Calgary, Facebook Marketplace, or consider consignment stores for valuable items.
  • Discard/Recycle: Check the City of Calgary's website for waste management guidelines (landfill, recycling depots, hazardous waste disposal). Plan for a potential dump run.
  Don't try to do it all at once. Small, consistent efforts are key.

Weeks 6-5: Gathering Momentum

With the foundation set, it's time to gather supplies and start the physical packing process.

• Acquire Packing Arsenal: Boxes, Tape, and More:
  • Estimate Needs: Use online calculators or ask your chosen Calgary moving company for guidance on the number and types of boxes needed (book boxes, medium, large, wardrobe boxes).
  • Purchase Quality Supplies: Don't skimp on tape (use proper packing tape, not duct tape!) or sturdy boxes. Consider dish pack boxes for fragile items.
  • Gather Materials: Buy packing paper (avoid newspaper for items that could stain), bubble wrap, stretch wrap for furniture, and permanent markers.
  • Check Local Calgary Resources: Sometimes hardware stores, storage facilities, or even liquor stores in Calgary offer boxes (ask politely!).
• Begin Packing Non-Essentials: Strategic Start:
  • Target Low-Use Areas: Start with items you won't miss in the next month – guest room linens, off-season clothing, books, decorative items, basement/garage storage.
  • Pack Smart: Don't overfill boxes (especially book boxes). Use smaller boxes for heavy items, larger boxes for lighter, bulky items. Fill empty spaces with packing paper or linens to prevent shifting.
  • Label Meticulously: On the top and at least one side of each box, clearly write:
    • Contents (General description, e.g., "Kitchen - Pots & Pans", "Office - Books")
    • Destination Room (e.g., "Master Bedroom", "Kitchen", "Living Room")
    • Mark boxes with fragile items clearly ("FRAGILE - Handle With Care").
  • Create an Inventory (Optional but Recommended): For peace of mind and insurance purposes, consider keeping a simple list (numbered boxes with general contents) in your moving binder or a spreadsheet.
• Notify the Network: Address Updates Begin:
  • Key Institutions: Inform banks, credit card companies, loan providers, Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), Alberta Health Services, doctors, dentists, veterinarians.
  • Subscriptions & Memberships: Update addresses for magazines, newspapers, streaming services (if location-based), gym memberships, loyalty programs.
  • Schools & Childcare: If applicable, arrange for school record transfers and notify daycare/preschools.
  • Employer: Ensure your HR department has your new address for payroll and benefits.
  Keep a running list in your binder of who you've notified.
• Storage Solutions in Calgary (If Necessary):
  • Assess Needs: Determine the size of the unit required and the duration.
  • Research Options: Compare prices, security features, climate control options, and accessibility of different Calgary storage facilities.
  • Book in Advance: Especially during busy moving seasons, reserve your unit early.

Weeks 4-3: Hitting the Stride

Halfway there! Focus on steady packing and administrative tasks.

• Confirm Logistics with Your Calgary Movers:
  • Reconfirm Date & Time: Call your moving company (e.g., Move Calgary Now) to confirm the exact arrival window for moving day.
  • Review Details: Double-check the number of movers assigned, estimated duration, insurance coverage, and any special instructions (parking restrictions at either location, specific items requiring extra care).
  • Ask Questions: Clarify anything you're unsure about regarding payment methods, what they won't move (hazardous materials, perishables), or moving day procedures.
• Maintain Packing Pace: Room by Room:
  • Systematic Approach: Dedicate specific times each week to packing. Focus on completing one room before moving to the next.
  • Prioritize Less-Used Items: Continue packing items you can live without for the next few weeks (extra kitchen gadgets, most clothing, linens, office files).
  • Protect Furniture: Decide if you'll wrap furniture yourself or have the movers do it. Gather blankets, stretch wrap, or purchase furniture pads if needed. Disassemble large items if you're comfortable doing so (keep screws/parts labeled in bags taped securely to the item).
  • Label, Label, Label: Reinforce the importance of clear, detailed labeling on every box. It's the key to an organized unpack.
• Official Change of Address: Canada Post & Beyond:
  • Canada Post Mail Forwarding: Set this up online or at a post office. Choose the duration (typically 6 or 12 months) to catch any mail you missed updating directly. This is vital!
  • Driver's License & Vehicle Registration: Update your address with the Alberta government within the required timeframe (usually 14 days after moving).
  • Online Accounts: Update your shipping address on frequently used online shopping sites (Amazon, etc.).
  • Electoral Roll: Ensure your voter registration details are updated.
• Plan for Moving Day Logistics:
  • Time Off Work: Confirm you have moving day (and potentially the day after) booked off from work.
  • Parking Arrangements: Check parking regulations at both your old and new addresses in Calgary. If permits are needed or you need to reserve space for the moving truck (especially downtown or in busy areas), arrange this now. Inform neighbours if the truck might block access temporarily.
  • Elevator Bookings: If moving in/out of an apartment or condo building, book the service elevator well in advance, adhering to building management rules.

Weeks 2-1: The Final Push

The countdown is on! Focus on essentials, final arrangements, and preparing for the day itself.

• Utility Tango: Disconnect & Connect:
  • Schedule Final Readings/Disconnections: Contact Enmax (electricity), ATCO (natural gas), City of Calgary (water/waste, if applicable), internet, cable, and phone providers. Schedule service disconnection at your old address *the day after* you move out.
  • Schedule Connections: Arrange for services to be connected at your new Calgary address *the day before or the day you move in*. Ensure someone can be present if required for setup.
  • Keep Confirmation Numbers: Record all confirmation details in your moving binder.
• Kitchen Clean-Out: Minimize Food Waste:
  • Plan Meals Strategically: Use up perishable food from the fridge, freezer, and pantry. Get creative with recipes!
  • Avoid Big Grocery Trips: Buy only essentials needed for the remaining time.
  • Donate Non-Perishables: Consider donating unopened, non-perishable food items to the Calgary Food Bank or local charities. Movers typically won't transport perishable food.
• Arrange Care for Dependents: Kids & Pets:
  • Secure Sitters: Moving day is chaotic and potentially unsafe for unattended children and pets. Arrange for them to stay with family, friends, or a professional sitter for the day.
  • Prepare Pet Travel: Ensure pet carriers are ready, and have food, water, medication, and familiar toys easily accessible for transport. Update pet ID tags with your new address.
• Pack Your Valuables & Personal Bag:
  • Secure Important Documents: Gather passports, birth certificates, financial records, insurance papers, moving contracts, medical records, etc. Keep these in a secure file or box that you transport personally.
  • Valuables: Pack jewelry, irreplaceable sentimental items, and medications separately. Keep these with you.
  • Moving Day Survival Kit: Pack a suitcase or bag with essentials for the first 24 hours in your new home: toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, phone chargers, basic tools (screwdriver, utility knife), snacks, water, pet food, toilet paper, soap, and important documents.
• Final Packing Blitz & Appliance Prep:
  • Finish All Non-Essentials: Aim to have everything except daily necessities packed.
  • Dismantle Remaining Furniture: As needed (beds, tables).
  • Defrost & Clean Fridge/Freezer: At least 24-48 hours before moving day, empty, defrost, clean, and air out your refrigerator and freezer. Secure doors shut for transport.
  • Prepare Other Appliances: Disconnect and prepare washing machine, dryer, dishwasher according to manufacturer instructions (drain hoses, secure drums). Movers may require this to be done beforehand.
  • Confirm Final Details: One last quick call or email to your Calgary moving company to confirm arrival time and any last-minute questions.

Moving Day: Execution Time!

The day has arrived. Stay calm and focused.

• Meet the Movers: Be present when the Move Calgary Now crew arrives. Have coffee/water available (a small gesture goes a long way).
• Walkthrough: Do a walkthrough with the moving crew lead, pointing out fragile items, boxes not to be moved (essentials kit, valuables), and any specific instructions. Provide them with the floor plan for the new place if you have one.
• Sign Paperwork: Carefully read and sign the bill of lading/moving contract before loading begins. Understand the terms.
• Supervise Loading: While you don't need to hover, be available to answer questions. Ensure items are handled carefully and loaded correctly.
• Protect Your Old Home: Ensure movers use floor runners and door jamb protectors.
• Final Sweep: Before the truck leaves, do a thorough walkthrough of every room, closet, and storage space in your old home to ensure nothing is left behind. Check drawers and cupboards one last time.
• Secure Old Home: Lock all windows and doors. Leave any necessary keys/remotes for the new occupants or landlord as arranged.
• Travel to New Home: Plan your route. Keep your essentials box and valuables with you.
• Meet Movers at New Home: Be there to direct the movers where furniture and boxes should go according to your labels and floor plan.
• Protect Your New Home: Ensure floor runners and protection are used.
• Supervise Unloading: Check items for damage as they come off the truck (note any issues on the inventory sheet/bill of lading *before* signing off).
• Direct Placement: Guide movers on furniture placement to minimize rearranging later.
• Final Payment & Tip (Optional): Settle the bill according to your contract. Tipping movers in Calgary is customary for good service (consider $10-20 per mover per half-day, or 5-10% of the total cost, based on service quality).
• Initial Setup: Assemble beds first! Unpack your essentials box. Order food – you deserve it!

Post-Move: Settling into Calgary

• Unpack Systematically: Start with essentials (kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms). Don't try to do it all in one day.
• Check Utilities: Ensure all utilities are working correctly.
• Inspect for Damages: Report any significant moving-related damages to the moving company within the timeframe specified in your contract.
• Dispose of Packing Materials: Break down boxes. Check City of Calgary recycling guidelines. Some moving companies offer box removal services.
• Explore Your New Calgary Neighbourhood: Find local grocery stores, parks, and amenities.
• Update Address (Final Checks): Ensure everyone who needs your new address has it.

Following this detailed 8-week checklist will significantly reduce the stress associated with moving in Calgary. Remember, planning and organization are your best allies. And when it comes to the heavy lifting, trust professionals like Move Calgary Now to handle your belongings with care. Ready to get started?