Essential Moving Checklist for Calgary Homeowners

Andrei Volchkov
Posted by
Andrei Volchkov
on

2024-06-13 12:44 pm

Marketing Manager (with moving experience)

First of all, congratulations! You've decided to change your scenery and got a new place to live. Whether you're settling into your first-time purchased home or transitioning to another neighborhood in Calgary, moving is about much more than transporting boxes from point A to point B. It requires careful preparation, effective execution, and thoughtful settling in. Through this guide, we aim to provide invaluable insights from professional movers and introduce crucial services offered by our trusted partners. Remember, we are here for you, and will be happy to navigate your move with ease and confidence, making your transition as smooth as possible!

How to Prepare for Your Move

Step 1. Move Assessment

The first step in preparing for a successful move is assessing what you need to take with you. Begin by categorizing your belongings into what you want to keep, donate, or discard. This initial sorting is crucial in determining how much you actually need to move, which can significantly affect both the complexity and cost of your moving process.

One of the key considerations during this assessment is identifying which pieces of furniture will require special preparation, such as disassembly. Not all couches, for example, can fit through doorways as they might have been assembled inside the room. They must be disassembled and then reassembled at your new location. Failing to disassemble furniture when necessary can lead to damage—both to the furniture itself due to its structure not being able to withstand the angles and pressure of moving, and to your property, like scraping walls or door frames due to bulky items. Proper preparation reduces these risks and ensures that all your items arrive intact.

It’s advisable to start packing several days, or even weeks, before the actual move day. This allows you to systematically tackle the process room by room, staying organized and focused. Begin with rooms you use less frequently to minimize disruption in your daily life as the move approaches. This approach not only helps in sorting items more effectively but also in making packing less overwhelming, ensuring that nothing is missed or left until the last minute.

For items you no longer need but are still in good precondition, consider donating them to help those in need. A perfect place for such donations in Calgary is the Women In Need Society (WINS), where your contributions can make a significant impact. Donating items not only lightens your load but also supports the community, making the entire process rewarding. Learn more about where you can donate by visiting donate household items.

This methodical approach to assessing, preparing, and packing your belongings ensures that when moving day arrives, you are fully prepared and your belongings are secured. Each step, from disassembly to donation, is geared towards creating an efficient and stress-free moving experience.

Step 2. Budget Planning

A well-planned budget is crucial for managing the costs associated with moving. Start by getting quotes from several moving companies in the area to compare services and prices. Our personal recommendation is to avoid big-chain companies, as they most of the time, cannot provide utmost care and be efficient, they are looking at numbers and not at quality. We also do not recommend you to consider hiring anyone who doesn’t have a moving insurance and license. So, basically anyone off Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace who has extremely cheap services or unnamed moving company is a NO-NO. At the end of a day, what are you going to do if they damage your antique furniture or your property? I will tell you, they will block your phone and email, and you will never find them. This happened to too many of our customers who came to us with such unpleasant previous experience.

Also, remember to factor in additional expenses such as packing supplies, storage fees, and any necessary insurance. Professional moving company like ours, will always provide a full breakdown on all fees expected during your move right at consultation stage. We always think this way - do not hide anything from a customer, and provide maximum of our capabilities to ensure our customer’s satisfaction. By setting a realistic budget and sticking to it, you can avoid unexpected costs and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

Step 3. Renting Moving Supplies

Consider the benefits of renting moving supplies. At Cactus Moving we offer sturdy, eco-friendly plastic bins as a superior alternative to traditional cardboard boxes. These bins are not only more durable but also stackable and reusable, which can save you money and reduce waste. For more details on the advantages and pricing of storage bins rentals, check out our detailed comparison on storage bins rental.

Packing Tips and Strategy

Efficient Packing Techniques

Packing efficiently is key to protecting your belongings during transit. Never save on  high-quality packing materials and employ techniques that maximize space while ensuring the safety of your items. For visual learners, we have several video tutorials that demonstrate professional packing methods done by our movers.

How to Wrap a Mirror or Pictures in a Moving Blanket

Learn how to securely wrap mirrors and pictures with our step-by-step guide here

  • Clean the Surface: Before wrapping, clean the mirror or picture glass with a soft cloth to remove any dust or debris that could scratch the surface during the move.
  • Place the Moving Blanket: Lay the moving blanket flat with its darkest side down on the ground or a large table. Place the mirror or picture in the middle of the blanket.
  • Secure with Packing Tape: Wrap the blanket tightly around the mirror or picture. Ensure the corners are well-protected. Secure the blanket with packing tape by wrapping it around the entire bundle and sides by using X-movement technic, but be careful not to place tape directly on the frame or glass.
  • (optional) Add Cardboard for Extra Protection: For additional protection, cut pieces of cardboard to fit the size of the mirror or picture and place them on the front and back of the wrapped item. If you have havy-duty moving blankets there’s no need to apply this step as the blanket itself is thick enough to protect the mirror (or a picture) from any damages.
  • Tape Again for Security: Secure the cardboard pieces with more packing tape, ensuring the entire package is tight and cushioned.
  • Label Properly: Label the package with "FRAGILE - GLASS" and "THIS SIDE UP" to ensure that it is handled correctly during the move.

How to Pack Dishes and Glasses into a Box or Bin

Discover the best way to pack dishes and glasses to prevent breakage here.

  • Select the Right Box or Bin: Use a sturdy, small to medium-sized box or a durable plastic bin for dishes and glasses to prevent overpacking.
  • Prepare the Box/Bin: Line the bottom of the box or bin with crumpled packing paper or bubble wrap for cushioning.
  • Wrap Each Item: Individually wrap each dish and glass with packing paper or bubble wrap. For glasses, stuff the inside with paper to add extra stability.
  • Layer Properly: Place heavier items at the bottom of the box/bin, layering lighter items like bowls and glasses on top. Separate layers with additional crumpled packing paper or cardboard dividers.
  • Pack Tightly to Prevent Movement: Ensure items are snugly packed with little room to move. Fill any gaps with crumpled paper or towels to keep items stable during transport.
  • Seal and Label the Box/Bin: Close the box or bin securely with packing tape. Label it clearly with "FRAGILE - DISHES/GLASSES" and indicate which room it belongs to, such as "KITCHEN".

By following these detailed steps, you can ensure that your fragile items are well-protected during the moving process, reducing the risk of damage during transit.

If relocating to another city, see how to palletize your shipment for long-distance moves here.

Utilizing Storage Solutions

Selecting a Storage Unit

Choosing the right storage unit is as crucial as selecting the perfect home. Factors such as the size of the storage unit, climate control, and security features should be considered to ensure your belongings are well-protected. For detailed guidance on selecting the ideal storage facility and to understand different storage options available, visit our blog on choosing the right storage facility.

5x10 storage unit at Bow City Storage © Cactus Moving
5x10 storage unit at Bow City Storage © Cactus Moving

Maximizing Storage Space

Make the most out of your storage unit by organizing items efficiently. Use sturdy, stackable containers to utilize vertical space, and label each container for easy access. Disassemble larger furniture to save space, and place items you frequently use at the front of the unit for convenience.

Managing Utilities and Services

While our professional moving services cover the transportation of your belongings, including furniture, boxes, and electronics, there are aspects of your move that require specialized services. One such aspect is the disconnection and reconnection of appliances at your new home. For this, we highly recommend employing the services of our partner, TechVill. As one of the top appliance repair companies in Calgary, TechVill ensures your appliances are hooked up safely and efficiently. For more information on their services, visit TechVill.

Cactus Moving is Your Trusted Movers Provider

Moving can be an overwhelming process, but with the right preparation and support, it can also be an exciting transition to your new home. From assessing what to pack to maximizing your storage solutions, each step is crucial for a smooth move. By utilizing the tips and resources provided in this guide, you're well on your way to a successful relocation in Calgary. Remember, professional movers do not just transport your belongings; they ensure the entire moving process is seamless and stress-free.

Embrace the new beginnings and enjoy the journey to making your new house a home!