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A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Saskatchewan

Moving doesn’t need to be difficult, and it will be easier if you have a solid plan in place. At Country Wide Moving and Storage, we have supported moves for countless Saskatchewan individuals and organizations since 1986. Today, we want to pass that expertise on to you, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. Our goal is to make your move the smoothest one yet.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Keep Documents in Order

  • Start an organized folder for move paperwork
  • Include your rental agreement, purchase contract, new insurance policies, and moving company contract
  • Add receipts for moving expenses, utility setup, and any repairs or cleaning
  • File your mail-forwarding details and phone lists
  • Store this folder somewhere easy to access, and consider making digital backups of the most important papers

Sort & Simplify Before You Move

  • Started a keep pile
  • List items on eBay/Facebook, Marketplace, or scheduled yard sale
  • Reserve a bin or plan to deliver discards to a facility
  • Label your stuff by what stays, goes, or gets tossed

Donation Pickups

  • Decide what to give to local organizations
  • Book a collection or bring donations to your group of choice
  • Keep everything to donate in a designated area
  • Share useful items with your social circle

Selling Unwanted Items

  • Advertise things online for a quick sale
  • Use good images and descriptions to attract buyers
  • Get ready for a physical sale if you want fast results
  • Have supplies on hand for your garage sale

Don’t Lose Track of Key Files

  • Locate birth certificates, passports, and medical records
  • Put together all legal and financial docs
  • Get a secure container or digital solution for storage
  • Place all important documents together in a secure, easy-to-find spot

7 Weeks Before Moving

Inventory and Special Care Items

  • Create an inventory of your possessions
  • Identify and note items that need special care (fragile, valuable, antiques, electronics)
  • Circle or tag pieces that should be wrapped or boxed carefully

Documenting Your Valuables

  • Snap pictures of your most expensive things
  • Upload all images to a secure storage account
  • Make hard copies or backups in case you need them

Clearing Out Non-Movable Goods

  • Start eating any perishable food so it doesn't go to waste
  • Dispose of chemicals and products movers won’t transport
  • Set aside anything you're not allowed to move, and make a plan to dispose of it properly

Managing Power, Water, and Other Services

  • Research providers for electricity, water, internet, and trash at both addresses
  • Verify that everything you need is working or scheduled
  • Set the dates to turn off electricity, gas, water, internet, and trash service at your old address
  • Set up start dates for all your utilities at the new address so everything's ready when you arrive
  • Write down all service confirmations and keep them handy

Safe Deposit Box and Storage Unit

  • Arrange to clear your safe deposit box if your moving long-distance
  • Schedule time to empty or transfer items in storage
  • Set up a time to visit the bank or storage facility
  • Figure out how you'll safely move any valuables or important documents
  • Walk through every area to confirm everything is packed up

6 Weeks Before Moving

Letting Everyone Know Where You’re Going

  • File a change of address form to reroute your mail
  • Notify all your financial and service providers about your new address

Notifying Schools & Healthcare Providers

  • Give notice to your children’s school and all your healthcare providers
  • Request your files and records be sent to new providers

Preparing for Smooth Travel with Children and Animals

  • Have a kit with treats, toys, and necessities ready to go
  • Make sure you have any medications or special items your child or pet might need for the day
  • Secure a spot with sitters or daycare and check timing
  • Double-check that pets have updated ID tags and are microchipped with your new address

Planning for Work Absences

  • Plan ahead for needed time away from your job
  • Keep colleagues in the loop for smooth coverage
  • Set up an out-of-office email or voicemail if you'll be unavailable
  • Tie up loose ends before you leave for moving day
  • Don’t forget to arrange for WiFi at your new home

Local Services

  • Find all your go-to shopping spots and pharmacies close to your new address
  • Identify emergency services and animal hospitals nearby
  • Make a list of banks, mail centres, and fuel stations nearby
  • Plan meals out or to-go as you get settled in
  • Keep handy the contact details for important utilities
  • Scout out fun spots and good schools in the neighbourhood
  • Get plugged in with your new neighbourhood quickly

5 Weeks Before Moving

Organizing and Mapping Out Your Home

  • Figure out the best spots for your furniture and bulky belongings
  • Make sure there’s a clear path for oversized items
  • Confirm room measurements to avoid placement problems
  • Snap photos for easy reference when arranging furniture
  • Label your furniture and boxes with the room name to make moving day easier for everyone

Packing Necessities and Priceless Belongings

  • Hold on to passports, special keepsakes, and sensitive files
  • Have a go-bag ready with the basics for your first night
  • Don’t pack your everyday essentials—keep them with you
  • If you have irreplaceable items (like heirlooms or keepsakes), plan to transport them yourself

Organizing Keys and Access Before Your Move

  • Gather every key, remote, and code you’ll need on moving day
  • Keep keys and cards handy for a smooth move-in

4 Weeks Before Moving

Move-In/Move-Out Requirements for Apartment and Condo Residents

  • Double-check with both your old and new buildings about any move-in or move-out requirements
  • Ask if you need to provide insurance certificates for the movers
  • Find out if you need parking permits, elevator reservations, or loading dock access for moving day
  • Complete all forms before moving day to avoid delays
  • Clarify when you’re allowed to move in or out

Cleaning Arrangements

  • Book a cleaning service for your old home after you move out, so it's ready for the next person (and to help get your deposit back)
  • Have your new home cleaned before bringing in boxes
  • List which spots need extra care or deep cleaning
  • Stock up on cleaners and set aside time for the job

How to Handle Items Kept in Storage

  • Let the storage company know your plans for pick-up
  • Pick who’s in charge of moving your stored belongings
  • Organize everything in storage for fast loading
  • If you're moving to a new storage unit, reserve it in advance and confirm the address and hours

Let the Neighbours Know You're Moving

  • Let your neighbours know your moving date so they can expect extra activity and moving trucks
  • Warn about possible disruptions to shared areas or parking
  • Thank them for their patience with any noise or inconvenience

Parking Permits/Street Reservations

  • Find out about parking rules in both old and new neighbourhoods
  • Reach out to arrange for street reservations or permits
  • Secure your parking area in advance with easy to see markers or cones

3 Weeks Before Moving

Coordinating Power, Water, and Internet for Your Move

  • Double-check that all your utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet, trash) are scheduled to be turned off at your old place and turned on at your new one
  • Verify timing with every company for seamless transitions

Packing Personal Items

  • Set aside items that you’ll carry yourself for added peace of mind
  • Protect valuables by using strong packing boxes and storing them nearby
  • Clearly label these boxes or bags as "Do Not Move" so the movers know to leave them with you

Prepare an Essentials Box

  • Pack a box or bag with things you'll need right away at your new home-think toiletries, phone chargers, basic kitchen supplies, and a few days' worth of clothes
  • Carry your necessities in a spot where you can find them fast

Returning Borrowed Items

  • Check your home for anything you need to give back
  • Make sure no one is missing something you borrowed after you move

Prescription Transfers

  • Contact your pharmacist about moving your medication records
  • Refill prescriptions early to avoid running out during the transition

2 Weeks Before Moving

Unplug and Clean Appliances

  • Unplug the fridge, freezer, washer, and dryer
  • Empty all food and contents from these appliances
  • Sanitize interiors so your appliances stay odour-free
  • Allow enough time to defrost your freezer in advance
  • Towel dry all appliances to prevent mess, mold, or rust

Pack Up Remaining Non-Essential Belongings

  • Finish with things you can do without for a few days
  • Choose strong boxes and mark contents
  • Layer extra padding around anything delicate
  • Confirm all boxes are closed, taped, and good to go

Final Check-In with Your Movers

  • Contact the team to lock in the schedule
  • Go over details or unique needs with your crew
  • Keep your mover's details easily accessible

Get Your Paperwork Organized

  • Gather all important paperwork related to the move (contracts, receipts, inventory lists)
  • Add all entry tools to your folder so you have them
  • Write down or save essential phone numbers for fast help
  • Organize everything in a folder or envelope that's easy to carry and access on moving day

1 Week Before Moving

Get Suitcases Packed

  • Set aside enough outfits, sleepwear, and hygiene products for the first few nights
  • Add comfort items, electronics, and quick-grab essentials to each bag

Gather Up Valuables and Important Documents

  • Find and assemble all the documents you can’t afford to lose like passports and birth certificates
  • Set aside money, precious items, and family heirlooms
  • Carry sensitive items yourself for peace of mind

Last-Minute Purge

  • Take one more pass for anything that shouldn’t come along
  • Reduce what you bring by shedding extras now
  • Look in hidden spots for overlooked belongings

Have Spending Money Ready

  • Withdraw enough cash for tips and on-the-go purchases

Double-Check Arrangements for Kids and Pets

  • Double-check arrangements for child or pet care on moving day
  • Give all necessary information to those watching your loved ones

Empty All Trash and Recycle Bins

  • Empty and clean all trash cans, recycling bins, and outdoor containers
  • Confirm all bins are empty and clean

Line Up Assistance for Delivery and Set-Up

  • Ask a friend or family member to be at your new home to accept deliveries or let in utility technicians if you can't be there yourself
  • Enlist a backup to keep an eye on things if you’re busy

24 Hours Before Moving

Prepare Refrigerator

  • Take out everything from both compartments
  • Disconnect power and keep doors ajar to melt ice
  • Wipe down inside surfaces and dry everything to prevent odours or mold

Make Your Washing Machine Move-Safe

  • Freshen up the interior with a cleaning run or thorough wipe
  • Let it air out so there’s no dampness left
  • If you have a front-loading washer, secure the drum with moving bolts to protect it during the move
  • Leave the door open for a few hours to let any last moisture evaporate

Moving Day

Closing Out Your Old Place

Stay Onsite with the Moving Team
  • Stay available to answer any questions and give directions to the movers as they work
  • Identify anything fragile or staying behind before loading begins
Walk Through with Movers
  • Accompany the movers during their inspection to ensure nothing is missed
  • Double-check that everything you want moved is included on their list
Check Boxes and Loading
  • Make sure all boxes are clearly labeled with their destination rooms
  • Watch as boxes and furniture are loaded onto the truck to ensure nothing is missed or left behind
Make Sure the House is Safe Before You Leave
  • Check all doors and windows are secure before departure
  • Switch off all electronics and utilities
Final Inspection Before Moving Out
  • Inspect every nook and cranny for stray items
  • Open every compartment for hidden belongings
Leave Keys and Instructions
  • Leave all necessary keys, garage door openers, and gate remotes for the new occupants
  • Share important details about the home’s systems or routines

Move-In Steps for Your New Home

Get There Ahead of the Movers
  • Get to your new home before the movers so you're ready to greet them and unlock the door
  • Check that spaces are clear and ready for move-in
Show the Movers Where Everything Goes
  • Provide clear directions for box placement and setup
  • Put up temporary signs to help movers navigate
Review All Arrivals
  • Keep track of boxes as they’re delivered
  • Take a moment to inspect furniture and boxes for any damage or missing items
Document Problems Immediately
  • Report any issues right away for proper claims
  • Take photos of any damaged items for your records
Make Sure Everything Works
  • Make sure electricity, water, gas, and internet are all working
  • Make sure all machines work before unpacking further
Document Meter Numbers
  • Save images so you can confirm usage later
  • Keep all documentation on file for disputes
Consider Replacing Entry Hardware
  • Install new locks for added security if you own the home
  • If you're renting, check with your landlord before changing any locks

After the Move

Start with Must-Have Items

  • Get out your pillows, sheets, and daily supplies as a top priority
  • Make the beds so everyone can rest easily
Set Up Help for the Unpacking Process
  • If you arranged for the movers to help unpack, let them know which rooms or boxes to start with
  • Explain exactly where to place your belongings as you unpack
Dispose of Packing Materials
  • Flatten boxes and collect all packing materials
  • See if your moving company can take the waste, or check for local recycling drop-offs
Make Sure Registrations Are Up to Date
  • Contact government offices to update your address on your driver’s license, car registration, and voter registration
  • If you've moved to a new province or city, register your car as required by local laws
  • Register your pets with the new city or county if needed
Meet Your New Neighbours
  • Take a moment to introduce yourself to your new neighbours
  • Being welcoming can help you feel connected right away
Leave Feedback for Your Movers
  • Post your thoughts online to assist other customers
Keep Moving Documents
  • Keep all files together for future use or proof of expenses
  • Store documents safely for tax season or reimbursement

Extra Tips

Keep Essentials Accessible
  • Pack a small bag or box with phone chargers, daily medications, snacks, and bottled water so you can grab them easily during the move
  • Keep this kit with you—not in the moving truck—to stay comfortable and prepared
Photograph Electronics Setup
  • Photograph all wires and plugs so reassembly is easy
  • Refer to your images for a hassle-free setup
Pack a Comfort Kit for Night One
  • Make sure everyone has sleepwear, toothbrushes, and clean towels
  • Add special items for comfort or reassurance
Redirect Your Mail in Advance
  • Make sure you keep receiving mail at your new address
  • Change your shipping details with every service you use
List Local Emergency Contacts
  • Write down important contact details for emergencies
  • Have backup records in case your phone isn’t working

Need Help With Your Saskatchewan Move?

If you need trustworthy moving help in Saskatchewan, Country Wide Moving and Storage is known for great service at prices that fit your budget.

  • Trust – Chosen by countless Saskatchewan clients since 1986
  • Expertise – We treat your possessions with the respect they deserve
  • Best Value – We're dedicated to delivering a lower final bill!

Don't stress about your upcoming move – trust the moving team from Country Wide Moving and Storage to handle everything while you focus on starting your new chapter. We put our heart into every move!

Get Your Free Saskatchewan Moving Quote or phone our team at 639-307-8362 right now!