Whether you’re going across town or across the country in Canada, moving can be nerve-wracking. Long-distance moves can be extra-stressful thanks to extra logistics, time and expense. If you’re planning a long-distance move to or in Canada, you’ll want to be prepared to help make your move as smooth as possible. Before you start packing, check out these basics:
One of the biggest drawbacks to a long-distance move across the country is the expense involved. Whether you hire movers or rent a truck to move yourself, you’ll have to plan for costs involved in long-distance moving. As you’re planning your move, create a budget that includes room for lodging and food along the way, packing materials, moving your pets, government fees and documentation for moving into the country, and extras such as renting a car dolly, tolls or repairs.
If you decide to hire a moving company, get several quotes and compare the costs between companies. Check for any hidden fees or penalties for additional hours or miles. A lot can go wrong on a long-distance move, so it’s best to choose a company that’s flexible and doesn’t nickel and dime you on the extras. Be sure a company has a good reputation and plenty of insurance to cover any loss or damage to your belongings.
Moving yourself can be an effective way of saving money, making a self-move also gives you flexibility to pack and move on your timeframe rather than the moving company’s. Sometimes depending on your needs, you can choose to do the entire move yourself, or hire out for certain parts like the heavy lifting or packing. Self-moves also assure that your belongings are handled with care, which is especially important if you have extremely expensive or priceless items. That said it puts your back at risk if you have lots of heavy stuff and you have to keep in mind your time has a value. Canada is a big country and driving across it with a big heavy truck full of furniture may not be the ideal way to do a road trip.
When do a long-distance move yourself, it’s important to take the steps to protect your belongings, home and self. Invest in good quality packing materials and boxes to protect even your most fragile items. Consider using a specialty mover for large, bulky and unique items like pianos, hot tubs and pool tables. You’ll also want to protect your home, using blankets, mats and packing paper on the floors to keep them from getting scratched. Take care of yourself and protect your back by using hand carts and moving straps.
To stay sane on moving day, be prepared by organizing volunteers ahead of time, getting all your moving documents in order and creating an inventory of all your items. You’ll want to get up plenty early that morning to have time to complete those last minute tasks. If you have kids or pets, set up babysitting or boarding to make sure they’ll stay safe and out-of-the-way on moving day.
Using common sense and following simple packing tips can make your move less stressful and easier. If you don’t have the money to spend on boxes, check with friends and family members who have recently moved or peruse Kijiji for free materials. Get rid of as much of your stuff as you can before you move to make your load lighter and reduce clutter in your new place.
The key to making a long-distance move with kids and pets is being flexible. Plans can change frequently, so if you easily adapt, your kids will have a better time adjusting. Have lots of fun toys on hand to keep kids entertained during packing and moving, as well as snacks and drinks. If you have pets, plan on making extra stops during the trip to keep them comfortable.
