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Moving 101
By Ann Smith
Whether you have the art of packing down to a science or you struggle with
what comes first in the moving game, I’ve put together an article series
designed to help you make a smooth transition. Tips will cover everything
from packing, moving plants and animals, to evaluating a moving company.
What To Do: One To Two Months Before You Move
The first in our Moving 101 Series deals with things you need to do four to
eight weeks before your actual move date – and it all starts with a simple
note book…
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Create a Moving File: A
basic coil notebook will track your “to do” and “done” items; keep all
receipts; document conversations (including the name of who you talked
to, the date, and what was promised) for backup if problems arise.
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Change your address with
Canada Post,
Revenue Canada,
your insurance company, financial institutions, and all others who’ll
need your new address (newspaper and magazine subscriptions)…track them
in your Moving File.
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Utility company final
readings will need to be booked ahead – be sure you give yourself enough
time for electricity and phones. And don’t forget to change your address
for the final invoice.
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Book a moving company or
a rental truck. Check your insurance provider to see if they cover the
move or if you’ll need to purchase a “rider.”
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Start gathering packing
supplies – paper (the
London Food Bank
has a good deal for this), boxes, markers, packing
tape, etc.
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Take inventory before
you pack, especially of your valuables – this can be done in writing, by
photos, or by video. This documentation may become important for
insurance claims. Record the serial numbers of all electronic equipment.
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Start using up food
items – clean out your freezer first, then pantry items; you want the
least amount of items to pack or spoil.
Moving Across Country?
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Book travel arrangements
now. Consider airlines, buses, car rentals, and hotels. And don’t forget
to check storage facilities, if your new home isn’t ready.
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Ask for your medical,
dental, and prescription histories. And ask your doctors for referrals
and have prescriptions transferred.
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Set up a checking
account in your new city. You may be able to do this online with your
current financial institution.
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Check the new city for
by-laws that may be applicable to you (such as street parking and
home-based businesses).
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Transfer memberships in
churches, clubs, civic organizations, and your children’s school records.
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Cancel subscriptions
that will not be redirected; e.g., local newspaper.
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Make arrangements for
transporting pets.
Next issue, I’ll share
Packing Tips to make light work out of what can become overwhelming for
some.
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