10 steps to an easy move

4. Seek financial help
Will your company help with any of the moving costs (ask about a mortgage interest subsidy if you're moving to a more expensive market) or even supply relocation services, which are often used as an added incentive? A survey by the Canadian Employee Relocation Council found that more than 90 per cent of the organizations surveyed have a formal relocation policy, but the survey also found a decrease – from 37 per cent to just 15 per cent – of organizations offering a lump sum allowance to cover moving costs. If you ask for a lump sum, go in with a realistic picture of the cost, says Verbic.

5. Set a budget
Your moving budget needs to cover everything from what experts refer to as the origin, such as closing costs, to the transition, such as restaurant meals while on the road, to the destination, such as updating official documents. The biggest item price-wise will be the movers, who charge by distance and weight, so it's a good time to purge your belongings. It's never too soon to book your moving company, says Verbic, who suggests calling three professional companies for quotes and references. He says the first question to ask is, Are you bonded and do you have proof of insurance? If the answer is no, keep looking. Start with a company affiliated with a major van line, such as Atlas, Allied, North American or United. Ask about storage, insurance on the items being moved, having your vehicle moved with your possessions, if necessary, and a guarantee for the delivery date. "Your entire life is in that truck," says Verbic. "You really want to make sure it gets there."

6. Consult a calendar
Moving during the summer may be easier because school's out and the housing season is at its best for buyers, but it's also the busiest time for movers, which will drive up the cost and means you need to book your move as soon as possible to secure the labour. Charlie Page moved to Toronto with her husband and two young daughters; they arrived in July and bought a house in October. "Moving during the summer is much better because everyone is out in the park," says Charlie. "It's easier to meet people and see what the neighbourhood is like."

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