10 Things Most People Forget to Do Before Moving

Moving to a new home can be exciting, but it also comes with many tasks that need to be handled properly. While most people focus on packing and hiring movers, they often overlook smaller but important details. Forgetting these steps can lead to stress, delays, or unexpected costs, making the moving process more difficult than it should be.

Taking care of every detail in advance helps avoid last-minute problems. Missing key steps like updating your address or setting up utilities can cause inconvenience. This guide covers ten commonly forgotten tasks to ensure a smooth and hassle-free move.

Why Proper Preparation is Important Before Moving

A successful move requires more than just packing boxes and scheduling transportation. Many people focus on the physical aspects of moving but forget to take care of administrative tasks that are just as important. Overlooking essential steps, such as updating your address or transferring utilities, can lead to disruptions that make settling into your new home more difficult.

Forgetting to change your address can result in missed bills, delayed packages, or important documents being sent to your old home. Banks, insurance providers, and government agencies rely on accurate information to maintain services, and failing to notify them can cause unnecessary complications. Setting up mail forwarding and updating your address with key institutions ensures a smooth transition and prevents missing critical correspondence.

Utility transfers are another crucial detail that people often overlook. Arriving at your new home only to find no electricity, water, or internet can be frustrating and inconvenient. Scheduling utility changes in advance ensures that your essential services are active when you move in, allowing you to settle in comfortably without unexpected delays.

Common Moving Tasks People Often Overlook

Some moving tasks may seem minor but can cause major inconveniences if forgotten. Overlooking these details can lead to delays, misplaced items, or unexpected costs during the transition.

1. Changing Your Address in Advance

Forgetting to update your address can cause you to miss bills, government documents, or important mail. Many services rely on your address for identity verification, so keeping it updated is essential. Notify Canada Post and set up mail forwarding to avoid disruptions in receiving important correspondence. 

Update your address with banks, insurance providers, and government agencies to prevent service interruptions. Also, remember to change it for subscription services, gym memberships, and online shopping accounts to avoid missed deliveries or billing issues. Taking care of this early ensures you stay connected and avoid unnecessary hassles.

2. Transferring or Cancelling Utilities

Many people assume their utilities will transfer automatically, but this is not the case. If you don’t arrange for a transfer, you could be left without essential services on moving day. Contact utility providers at least two weeks before your move to schedule service transfers for electricity, water, gas, internet, and security systems. 

If moving to a new city, check if your current provider operates in the new location or if you need to set up new accounts. If moving out of town, cancel services to avoid unnecessary charges and request final meter readings to ensure accurate billing. Taking these steps prevents service interruptions and unexpected costs.

3. Backing Up Important Files and Documents

Losing important documents during a move can be frustrating and time-consuming. Without proper backup, retrieving lost paperwork can be difficult. Make digital copies of key documents such as leases, insurance policies, passports, and identification cards. 

Store them in cloud storage or an external hard drive for easy access in case the originals are misplaced. Keep physical copies in a secure folder that you carry with you rather than packing them with other household items. Organizing your documents in advance saves you time and stress if something goes missing.

4. Notifying Your Employer and Updating Work Records

Many people forget to inform their employer about their address change. This can lead to payroll or tax documents being sent to the wrong location. If you work remotely, ensure your company has the correct address for official correspondence and equipment shipments. 

Update professional records, including LinkedIn and business profiles, if necessary, to reflect your new location. If you receive work-related deliveries, notify suppliers or clients about your updated contact details. Keeping work records accurate ensures smooth communication and prevents delays in receiving important documents.

5. Scheduling a Deep Clean for Your Old Home

A thorough cleaning is often required when moving out, especially for renters. Neglecting this step can lead to withheld security deposits or additional cleaning fees. Clean inside cabinets, behind appliances, and hard-to-reach areas to leave the space in good condition. 

Consider hiring professional cleaners if you are short on time or if the property requires deep cleaning beyond what you can manage. If selling your home, a clean space makes a better impression for final inspections. Leaving the home in good condition ensures a smooth transition for the next occupant and helps you avoid financial penalties.

6. Preparing an Essentials Box for Moving Day

The first night in a new home can be stressful if essentials are buried in packed boxes. Having a separate essentials box makes unpacking easier and more organized. Pack toiletries, medications, chargers, and basic kitchen items in a clearly labeled box that you keep with you. 

Include important documents, a change of clothes, and snacks for easy access throughout the day. If you have children or pets, pack their necessities as well to ensure they stay comfortable. This prevents unnecessary stress when settling in and allows you to focus on getting organized.

7. Taking Photos of Your Belongings for Insurance Purposes

Moving can sometimes result in damaged or lost items. Without proper documentation, it may be difficult to file insurance claims. Take photos of valuable belongings, including electronics, furniture, and fragile items, before packing them. 

Make note of serial numbers and any existing damage so you have a clear record of their condition. If using professional movers, check their insurance coverage and understand the claims process in case something goes wrong. Having detailed records ensures smoother claims if anything gets lost or damaged during the move.

8. Returning Borrowed Items and Picking Up Dry Cleaning

It’s easy to forget about borrowed books, tools, or other items when packing. However, failing to return them can cause inconvenience for the lender and leave you with unnecessary clutter. Make a checklist of items borrowed from friends, neighbours, or the library, and return them before moving day. 

Also, remember to collect dry cleaning, repaired electronics, or stored belongings from service providers. Handling these errands in advance saves you from last-minute stress and ensures you don’t leave anything behind.

9. Labeling Boxes Clearly for Easy Unpacking

Unpacking can be frustrating if boxes are not labeled properly. Without clear labels, finding essential items can take longer than necessary. Use a simple labeling system that includes the contents and the destination room to make the unpacking process more efficient. 

Colour-coded stickers or numbering systems help keep things organized, especially if multiple people are helping with the move. Having an "open first" box for immediate needs, such as toiletries, chargers, and kitchen essentials, ensures that you can settle in quickly. Taking a few extra minutes to label boxes properly saves time and frustration when setting up your new home.

10. Checking for Leftover Items in Storage Areas

Storage areas like basements, attics, and garages often contain forgotten items. Many people don’t realize they’ve left something behind until it’s too late. Double-check every storage space before moving day, ensuring nothing is overlooked. 

Look through high shelves, hidden corners, and outdoor sheds where items may have been stored long ago. If you have a rented storage unit, make sure to empty it or transfer its contents to your new location. A final walkthrough of all storage spaces helps prevent lost or forgotten belongings.

Final Checks Before Moving Day

Moving requires careful planning to ensure nothing is forgotten in the process. Many people focus on packing but often overlook checking hidden spaces, finalizing moving arrangements, and preparing essential items. A last walkthrough of your home helps prevent misplaced belongings and ensures a smooth transition.

Beyond packing, verifying moving details can prevent last-minute issues. Confirming your schedule with movers, securing transportation, and organizing labels on boxes make unloading much easier. Additionally, arranging parking permits or elevator reservations avoids unnecessary delays.

Having essential contacts and an emergency bag ready adds an extra layer of preparedness. Quick access to your moving company, utility providers, and important documents can help resolve unexpected issues. A well-organized move minimizes stress and allows you to settle into your new home smoothly.

Move Without the Hassle – Choose Advance Moving, the Reliable Movers in North York

A well-organized move saves time, money, and stress. Handling small but important details in advance ensures a smoother transition. Choosing professional movers can also make the process easier and more efficient.

Advance Moving provides reliable moving services to help you relocate without hassle. Our experienced team ensures your belongings are handled with care and delivered safely. If you’re looking for movers in North York, Advance Moving is here to make your move stress-free. Call us today at (437) 989-7726.