Tenant Insurance Series: Moving 101

Everybody knows at least one story of a move that turned into a nightmare. Friends who fail to show, boxes that fall apart, the new occupant arriving much earlier than expected, and the wait, the interminable wait for a moving truck that never comes… With thorough preparation such inconveniences can be avoided – or at least minimized. It is possible to plan a successful move!

Booking a truck
Reserve your truck as soon as you know your moving date, especially if you are planning to move between June 15 and July 15.

You have decided to move yourself?

Make sure you have the right licence class to drive the rental truck.
Contact family and friends and agree on the date and time. Give them a call one or two weeks before Moving day.

You are hiring a mover?

Choose a qualified moving company that is a member of the Commission des Transports du Québec.
Make sure the mover has valid insurance to cover any loss or damages that may occur.
Inquire about the hourly rate and request an estimate (you can ask for written confirmation).
Agree on the date and time.

Changing your address
Make a list of the people, companies and organizations that need to know your new address. Notify them 4 to 8 weeks before your move. Among the most important:

Hydro-Québec
Telephone Company
Cable Company
Government Organizations (Revenu Québec, Régie de l’assurance maladie, SAAQ, etc.)
Internet Provider
Insurance Companies
Financial Institutions

Packing
Start packing several weeks before your moving date. To avoid lugging all kinds of items that are no longer needed, start with a major cleanup. Sort things out and give away to charitable organizations any piece of clothing or other item you no longer want or organize a garage sale.

Collect boxes in practical sizes: very large boxes will often be too heavy so it is better to use smaller boxes that will be easier to carry. Several truck rental companies offer excellent moving supplies: sturdy boxes, packing materials, garment bags, etc.
Clearly identify each box: use a felt pen to indicate the room it is to be placed in (e.g. kitchen, bathroom, master bedroom, living room, etc.). Don’t forget to mark “Fragile” any boxes containing objects of value.
Use large garbage bags for: blankets, pillows, throws, etc.
Newspaper makes perfect packing material but since the ink can rub off and stain certain items, you should use towels or unprinted paper for dishes and glasses.

A few days before the move, all the boxes should be ready. Keep only essential items; disassemble all furniture that needs to be and disconnect any unused appliances (stereo, computer, lamps, etc.). Also think of packing a box with items such as a first aid kit, gloves, bathroom tissue, paper towels and a few tools.

Tip: draw a floor plan of your new apartment so you know in advance where your furniture is going. This will be a great help for the movers.

On Moving Day
In theory, you should be ready for your move. Your job will essentially be to supervise the moving team. Check the condition of your household items before leaving and be sure to be at your new place before the movers. Inspect all items again as they are being unloaded and ask for a receipt for your payment.

Despite all the stress that moving generates, it is possible to have fun during this adventure. The key to a successful move is planning and preparation.