Getting ready to move

By Matt Rutchik

All the fun that is associated with selecting the perfect new home is frequently seen to be a reservation for that time when the moving process begins. I'm thinking of the time about a month before the move. This is the preparation time - the time that allows us to ease into the move, and there are two types of preparations that need to be made in advance: household clean-up and pack-up, and the moving arrangements.

Closets, cupboards, toy chests, shelves, bathrooms, bedrooms, the attic, refrigerator, garage, basement ? these all need to be cleaned out. When you come across things you do not want, you have a number of options. The easiest is to drop it in the trash or place it outside for special pickup (make sure you call). You can also collect your junk, store it in a garage or empty room and throw a yard sale over the weekend. Or, they can be gifts, like the these-pants-don't-fit-my-son-any-longer type of gifts that you give to a friend. Thrift stores and charities are another option, and if you choose this one, make sure to get a tax receipt for your donation!

Now that you have cleared everything out of your home, think of all the places your other possessions may be. If you belong to a sports club or gymnasium, go and clear your locker out. If you will be moving offices to accommodate the move at home, check every draw. If you have loaned something to a friend, or have something a friend loaned to you, retrieve or return it. 

While clearing out all spaces, start notifying all service companies of your departure date. This includes the electric, gas, water, telephone, newspaper and sanitation organizations to discontinue service.

When it comes to moving arrangements, keep detailed records of all receipts related. The Canada Revenue Agency allows you to claim moving expenses on income tax. Situations will vary, so check www.cra-arc.gc.ca to see if you qualify for any deductions.

Then there are the movers. Ask around - friends and relatives - and get physical estimates. If the company doesn't want to come and see what they're moving, and can only offer rates over a phone, there are others. Ask the mover if they offer liability. If not, you may want to limit what you pack to immediate necessities and simply supervise the rest. Call your insurance to see what they cover and find out who is responsible for the damages. And don't be shy, ask the mover for their references.

Even though you're certain you picked the best mover, read Part IV of the Consumer Protection Act, 2002 to find out what should be included in a moving contract. It is easily obtainable through a quick search in Google and offers a list of mandatory disclosures that you are expected to know. But the list is not final, so be creative with what seems to be missing, such as the policy holder for the insurance.

Before you lock the door one last time, remember to turn off the heater and set the thermostat to about 15 degrees so the house is cool and comfortable for the next occupants. Have a safe ride to your new home!