how to survive the busiest moving day of the year
By Cotie Drinkwater
If you are planning to move at the end of June and haven’t booked a mover, you could be out of luck.
Traditionally, June 30 is the most popular day of the year for Canadians to move. The most recent Census (2011) reports that 4.3 million Canadians move annually, which amounts to 1.6 million families – 13 per cent of whom choose the month of June. About a third of those pick June 30 as their moving date, so in Toronto alone, that amounts to 30,000 people doing the box-truck shuffle in that 24-hour period.
why the big exodus on this one specific day?
In our experience, weather tops the list of reasons. It’s more pleasant to move after the cold and snow of winter are behind us, and before the major heat of summer kicks in. Of course, no one can predict what Mother Nature will hand us on any given day, but usually there is little chance of rain at the end of June as well.
Keep in mind moving just before the long weekend in July means families have an extra day to begin unpacking and getting settled before they have to go back to work. By waiting until late June, parents avoid disrupting their children’s school year. The end of June marks the mid-year renewal deadline for property taxes and rental leases, so for many people, the timing is optimal.
If June 30 is your moving day, here are some tips to make moving a less stressful and more pleasant experience:
book your mover now
You may find that many companies are already fully booked for that day, but the earlier you start calling, the more chances you’ll get a reliable firm to help.
consider pro packers
Time is running short, and TMT has packing down to a science. Remember, it’s as important to us as it is to you to get your possessions to your new home safely and in pristine condition.
refer to a checklist
Make sure you remember all the things you have to do. Changing addresses, notifying utility companies, enrolling kids in their new schools, arranging for pets and small children to be cared for during the move. Checklists are easily available online. You can find ours at www.twomenandatruck.ca/your-moving-checklist-plan-your-move.
ditch the junk
No use moving stuff that you will just throw out or give away after.
When it comes to moving, the extra effort up front goes a long way and when you choose to move on June 30, it takes you even farther toward a safe, successful and fulfilling experience.
Cotie Drinkwater is Franchisee Owner of Two Men and A Truck® – Canada in the St. Catharines and Niagara Region. Contact him for all your moving needs at 905-641-2636 or twomenniagaramovers.ca.