As a rule-of-thumb, do not include combustible or flammable materials, such as alcohol, fuel, paint, cleaning and lighter fluids, matches, ammunition, and aerosol cans in your move. This includes draining the fuel and oil from machinery such as lawn mowers and chain saws.
In addition, particularly for long distance moves, we recommend not to include any liquids. Your items can incur substantial damage from even small amounts of loose liquid.
Prepare a designated box for necessities. This box should be loaded last and unloaded first, and usually includes a first-aid kit, small parts and tools for the assembly of various furniture, and the kitchen supplies you will need as soon as you are at your new location. Make sure to have a complete inventory list of the items in this box.
Document all of your moving expenses and keep receipts. The Canadian Revenue Agency may give tax credit for expenses on moves that exceeds 40km.
As advance preparation for the move, receive appraisals for any antiques items. Consider purchasing a separate insurance policy for any extra valuable items, as the standard insurance policy provided by most moving companies will not cover them.
Make sure that fragile items are packed carefully, and label each item with “Fragile.” We recommend numbering all the items and having an inventory list generally indicating the contents of each item and where to place it in the new location.
Make sure that either yourself, or someone else with your inventory list, is present at the time of unloading to direct the movers and make sure everything has been delivered and in good condition. It is often helpful to start with a walkthrough of the house to familiarize the movers with the layout.
