To begin with, though the phrase moving states is more commonly thrown about due to a dominant and active global American media, we’re talking about what we locally call provinces. Moving from one province to another as you would imagine is quite different from say, simply shifting homes within the same town or city.
There’s a lot more preparation that goes into it for one thing. Regardless of which Canadian province or territory you’re looking to move to, there are a few things you want to make sure you have in order.
The Cross-Province Moving Checklist
Here are some of the things you want to do and have in order before you make that cross-province move.
Visit the Place You’re Looking to Move
A blind move to an entirely new place might not be the smartest idea. What is most advisable is that if you are looking to move to a place, maybe schedule a visit first. A physical visit will allow you to get a better sense of what your potential new home is like.
You’ll get an idea of the people, culture and lifestyle as well as a heads up on anything such as weather conditions or the law and order situation as well as things like housing costs. The visit trip is important to determine whether your place of choice is indeed for you!
Jobs and Schools
The next thing you want to do is make sure you have a steady stream of income. If you need to find a new job, it might help to start looking before you shift. If your company operates in the province you’re going to or you run your own business well and good. If not, make sure you don’t end up spending the first month in your new home stressed out and unemployed!
Those with children should also look into the schools in the area and connect with whoever they need to in order to have their children admitted. Again, this is better done before you move.
Budgeting
If you feel you’re good so far, get with your family and work out a comprehensive budget to determine the move is feasible. Don’t do something that will be too much of a financial strain.
House Hunting
When you’re on a budget, look for homes and places you can buy or rent in the location you’re moving to. Connect with realtors or sellers and letters over online listing sites. See if there is any way to make an initial payment to hold your property till you get there. Ideally, have all your home paperwork done and dusted before you arrive.
You don’t want to have to deal with last minute legalities while you unpack.
Paperwork
There might be a fair bit of paperwork to do. Forwarding your mailing address, updating your tax papers etc. Make sure you take care of all this before you move.
Packing and Hiring
If it was a small move, hiring help might not have been needed. Given that you’re moving across province, it is best to hire professional movers to help you along. A professional moving company will make sure your items are packed and transported safely. If they offer storage options, you can even have your stuff sent over before you leave.
At any rate, hiring professional movers and packers is both convenient and advised.
Upshot
If you’ve sorted out the above you should be good to go! Say your goodbyes, take down that door sign and have a pleasant journey!
If you’re looking for a moving company to help, we’re based in Winnipeg but will move your stuff anywhere in Canada that suits your needs! Just give us a shout!
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