Moving? Don’t Let the Little Things Slip Through the Cracks
Even the most organized movers can overlook the small details that make a big difference. When you’re juggling boxes, paperwork, and timelines, it’s easy to forget a few essential tasks. Unfortunately, those missed items often cause last-minute stress — or a frantic drive back to your old home.
At Labelle Moving, we’ve helped countless Ottawa families and homeowners pack up smoothly, and we’ve seen it all — from forgotten items tucked in basements to missed address changes. This guide will walk you through the top 10 things people forget to do or pack before moving, plus smart tips to stay ahead.
1️⃣ Label and Inventory Every Box (Yes, Every Box!)
Image idea: Close-up of a labeled cardboard box reading “Kitchen – Utensils.”
It’s easy to underestimate how many boxes you’ll end up with. A few unlabeled boxes can turn your first night in a new home into chaos. Always:
- Label every side of each box with its contents and destination room.
- Use colour-coded stickers for each room (kitchen = blue, bedroom = yellow, etc.).
- Keep a master inventory list on your phone or clipboard.
When you’re unpacking, you’ll thank yourself. You’ll know exactly where your coffee maker, linens, and toiletries are without opening half the boxes in the house.
2️⃣ Disconnect and Prep Appliances Properly
Image idea: A mover disconnecting a washing machine hose.
Large appliances — washers, dryers, and fridges — need extra attention before moving day.
Commonly forgotten steps include:
- Defrosting the refrigerator at least 24 hours before the move.
- Securing hoses and cords with tape or cable ties.
- Emptying the washing machine and leaving the door open to dry.
- Turning off gas lines for stoves or dryers (professional help may be required).
Taking time to prep appliances properly prevents leaks, mold, and unpleasant surprises when you unpack.
3️⃣ Pack an Essentials Box for Day One
Image idea: A small open box labeled “Essentials – Open First.”
You’ll be tired at the end of moving day — the last thing you’ll want is to dig through twenty boxes for a toothbrush or your phone charger.
Your Day-One Box should include:
- Toiletries
- Change of clothes
- Medications
- Chargers & small electronics
- Snacks, paper towels, and basic tools
- Important documents (lease, IDs, keys)
Keep this box with you in your car or clearly marked so movers know it stays accessible.
4️⃣ Take Care of Valuables and Documents
Image idea: A folder with passports, jewelry box, and laptop in a personal bag.
Never pack high-value or irreplaceable items with general household boxes. Important documents, passports, jewelry, heirlooms, and personal electronics should travel with you personally.
Create digital backups of essential documents and store them on a secure cloud drive just in case. For added peace of mind, keep valuables in a labeled but discreet tote you can easily identify.
5️⃣ Remember Curtains, Wall Hooks, and Light Fixtures
Image idea: A bare living room wall after curtains and art have been removed.
Homeowners often forget that anything attached to walls — curtains, blinds, wall hooks, artwork hardware, or even light fixtures — doesn’t magically move itself.
Before moving day:
- Take down curtains, rods, and hooks.
- Remove wall mounts and hardware, placing small parts in labeled bags.
- Patch small nail holes if required by your lease or sale agreement.
- Turn off power before removing any fixtures.
These details save you from losing deposits or leaving behind sentimental items.
6️⃣ Don’t Forget the Hidden Spots
Image idea: A hand pulling an item from a high kitchen cabinet.
It’s amazing how many places in a house can hide things. Before locking up, check:
- Attic and basement corners
- Closets and drawers (especially built-ins)
- Behind appliances
- Garage shelves or rafters
- Sheds, decks, and garden boxes
- Inside furniture drawers
Take a flashlight and do one final “forgotten items walk-through.” Labelle Moving recommends doing this once your movers have emptied each room — it’s the easiest way to catch stray belongings.
7️⃣ Update Your Address Everywhere (Not Just at the Post Office)
Image idea: Stack of mail with “Forward to new address” sticker.
Updating your address is one of those chores people think they’ve handled — until their mail keeps showing up at the old place.
Here’s a quick checklist for Ottawa homeowners:
- Canada Post (mail forwarding)
- Banks and credit cards
- Utility companies (Hydro Ottawa, Enbridge Gas, Bell, etc.)
- Insurance providers
- Driver’s licence and vehicle registration
- Online shopping accounts (Amazon, etc.)
- Friends and family
Do this about two weeks before your move, and double-check confirmations after you’ve moved in.
8️⃣ Clean and Prep Before Movers Arrive
Image idea: Broom, mop, and vacuum ready beside packed boxes.
A quick clean-up can make your movers’ job easier and protect your belongings.
Before the moving crew arrives:
- Clear walkways and stairs of clutter.
- Disassemble large furniture (beds, shelving, etc.).
- Empty and tape drawers so they don’t slide open.
- Sweep and mop floors to prevent tracking dirt.
This not only keeps your home safe but also speeds up the loading process — saving you time and money.
9️⃣ Plan for Kids, Pets, and Plants
Image idea: Family pet sitting safely in carrier beside moving boxes.
Children, pets, and plants need special care during a move. Amid the chaos, it’s easy to overlook their needs.
For kids:
Prepare an overnight bag with clothes, snacks, and comfort items. Arrange childcare for the busiest part of the day if possible.
For pets:
Secure them in a quiet room or have a friend watch them. Keep food, bowls, and carriers handy.
For plants:
Water lightly the day before the move, and pack them last. Avoid leaving them in freezing or overheated vehicles.
A little planning ensures everyone — and everything — arrives safely and calmly.
🔟 Don’t Forget to Breathe (and Plan for the Unexpected)
Image idea: Homeowner taking a deep breath, smiling among boxes.
Even with the best planning, moving can feel overwhelming. Schedules shift, weather changes, and things pop up you didn’t expect.
Here’s how to stay grounded:
- Give yourself buffer time between moving out and moving in.
- Keep a sense of humour when small hiccups happen.
- Stay hydrated and eat during moving day.
- Remember that every move, like every home, has its quirks.
With an experienced moving team, even surprises can be handled smoothly and professionally.
🧭 Bonus: Create Your Personalized Moving Timeline
Image idea: Printed moving checklist on a clipboard.
Start your moving plan early — ideally six weeks before moving day.
Here’s a quick timeline template:
6 Weeks Before:
Sort and donate items, gather packing supplies, research movers.
4 Weeks Before:
Start packing rarely used rooms, confirm your moving date, and change your address.
2 Weeks Before:
Pack non-essentials, confirm elevator bookings, arrange childcare/pet care.
1 Week Before:
Finish packing most rooms, defrost fridge, and prepare your essentials box.
Moving Day:
Wake up early, review inventory, take final meter readings, and enjoy the fresh start!
🏠 How Labelle Moving Makes Packing Easier
Packing smart isn’t just about boxes, it’s about planning, protection, and peace of mind.
At Labelle Moving, our team provides:
- Professional packing services for every room in your home.
- Eco-friendly materials and sturdy boxes for safe transport.
- Special care for fragile and valuable items.
- Flexible scheduling that fits your timeline.
We know Ottawa homes, from downtown condos to suburban family houses, and we treat each move with personalized attention.
📞 Call to Action
Ready to make your next move stress-free?
Call or text Labelle Moving at (343) 943-MOVE for your free estimate today.
Let our experienced Ottawa movers handle the packing, planning, and heavy lifting so you can focus on settling into your new home.
