Long Distance Moving Checklist: 8 Weeks Out to Moving Day
Every task for moving to another city or province, in the order you need to do it. Add your moving day to get real dates, tick tasks off as you go, and print it for the fridge.
Start 8 weeks before your move by booking movers and giving notice. Use weeks 6 to 2 for packing, address changes and building bookings. In the last week, pack a kit to live out of while your things are on the truck.
Long distance moves add steps a local move doesn't have: a delivery window, days without your belongings, and new provincial ID.
How to use this checklist
A long distance move has more moving parts than a local one. Your belongings travel for days, you may change provinces, and you often can't fix a forgotten task once you've left.
This checklist breaks the work into seven stages. Enter your moving day below and each stage shows the date to start it. Your ticks save in this browser, so you can come back any time.
8 weeks before your move: book and plan
This is when your biggest decisions get made. Movers book up fast for summer and month-end dates, so lock in your crew first.
6 weeks before: packing and logistics
With the move booked, shift to the physical work. Start with the things you won't miss for a month or two.
4 weeks before: addresses, buildings and utilities
This is the admin month. Most of these tasks take minutes, but missing one can mean lost mail or a moving day with no elevator.
2 weeks before: confirm and wind down
Now you're tying up loose ends. The goal is a clear plan, an empty freezer and nothing the movers can't take.
1 week before: final packing
The house should start to look empty. Finish packing, except for the things you'll use in the last few days.
Moving day: loading the truck
Your job today is to be available, check the paperwork and make sure nothing gets left behind.
After you arrive: delivery and settling in
The move isn't finished when the truck pulls away. Delivery day and the first few weeks have their own deadlines.
Your transit kit: what to keep with you
On a local move, an "open first" box is enough. On a long distance move, your belongings can be on the truck for 5 to 14 business days, so you need a kit to live out of.
Pack it in your car or suitcase, never on the truck.
Documents
- Passports and ID
- Moving contract and inventory
- Lease or closing papers
- Insurance details
Health
- Medication for a month
- First aid basics
- Glasses, contacts and chargers
Daily life
- Clothes for 1 to 2 weeks
- Toiletries and towels
- Bedding or an air mattress
- Phone and laptop chargers
New home, first night
- Toilet paper and soap
- Basic tools and a box cutter
- Light bulbs and a flashlight
- A kettle, mugs and snacks
If you'll arrive before your belongings, plan where you'll stay. A furnished short-term rental or a hotel near your new home makes the wait easier.
Moving provinces: health cards and driver's licences
If you're moving to a new province, you'll need a new health card and driver's licence. The rules differ, so check them for where you're going.
| Moving to | Health card | Driver's licence |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | No waiting period. Apply in person at ServiceOntario once you live in Ontario. OHIP details | Within 60 days of becoming a resident |
| British Columbia | Rest of the month you arrive, plus two months. Apply as soon as you arrive and keep your old coverage during the wait. MSP details | Within 90 days of becoming a resident |
| Alberta | Coverage starts on the first day of the third month after you arrive. Register within three months, and keep using your old card during the wait. AHCIP details | Within 90 days of becoming a resident |
Rules can change. Confirm with the province before you move.
Your old province generally covers you until your new coverage starts, as long as you apply on time. Don't cancel your old health card before your new one is active.
Taxes when you move provinces
Moving companies charge GST or HST based on the province your belongings are going to. So a move into Alberta is charged 5% GST, while a move into Ontario is charged 13% HST.
If you're moving for a new job, business or full-time school, you may also be able to claim moving costs on your tax return. Keep every receipt in your moving folder.
5 long distance moving mistakes to avoid
- Booking on a phone quote aloneA price built on a guess is the one most likely to change. Long distance quotes should come from a full inventory.
- Packing what you'll need in transitYour belongings can take 5 to 14 business days to arrive. Anything you need sooner has to travel with you.
- Forgetting the building at the other endAn unbooked elevator or no parking at your new home can delay unloading and add fees.
- Moving things you don't wantYou pay for space on the truck. Selling a bulky item is often cheaper than shipping it across the country.
- Skipping the inventory checkIf damage or a missing box isn't noted at delivery, it's much harder to claim later.
Still budgeting? Our guide to the cost of moving across Canada breaks down prices by route and home size.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I plan a long distance move?
Start about 8 weeks before your moving day. For a summer or month-end move, book your movers 8 to 12 weeks ahead. The rest of the year, 4 to 6 weeks is usually enough.
What should I do first when moving to another province?
Book your movers, get a written flat rate with a delivery window, and give notice on your rental. Then make a full inventory and start decluttering.
How long does it take for belongings to arrive on a long distance move?
Moves under 1,000 km often arrive in 1 to 3 days. Moves of 1,000 to 2,500 km usually take 4 to 10 business days, and coast-to-coast moves take 5 to 14 business days.
What should I pack in my car for a long distance move?
Pack anything you'll need before your belongings arrive: documents, medication, 1 to 2 weeks of clothes, toiletries, chargers, bedding and basic tools.
Do I need a new health card when I move to another province?
Yes. Ontario has no waiting period. British Columbia has a wait of the rest of the month you arrive plus two months. In Alberta, coverage starts on the first day of the third month. Keep your old coverage until the new one starts.
How long do I have to change my driver's licence after moving provinces?
Ontario requires you to exchange your licence within 60 days of becoming a resident. British Columbia and Alberta allow 90 days.
When should I set up mail forwarding?
Register with Canada Post at least a week before you move, since forwarding can take a few business days to start.
What can't movers take on a long distance move?
Movers won't load hazardous items like propane tanks, gasoline, paint, aerosols and pool chemicals, or perishable food. Keep valuables, documents and medication with you.
Start your checklist with a flat rate
The first task on the list is a written quote. Tell us what you're moving and where, and you'll get one price with a confirmed delivery window.
Book a free in-home estimate Long distance moving