Senior Moving Checklist: A Compassionate Guide to Relocating with Ease

Start with a Clear Plan

A successful move begins with a solid checklist. Organizing tasks by timeline ensures nothing gets missed—and reduces the chance of last-minute stress.

Two Months Out

• Check mobility access at the new home. Ensure features like ramps, wide doorways, and ground-level entries are in place for comfort now—and in the future.

• Gather moving quotes. Request in-home or virtual estimates from reputable movers. Choose licensed, insured companies with experience helping seniors.

• Begin downsizing early. Encourage loved ones to part with items they no longer need. Offer keepsakes to family members or set aside donations for local charities.

• Secure your moving date. Book your mover as soon as your plans are confirmed—especially during peak moving seasons.

One Month Out

• Create a valuables list. Track important items like jewelry, family heirlooms, or legal documents.

• Talk to doctors and pharmacists. Refill prescriptions, notify medical offices of the new address, and request copies of health records.

• Start packing rarely used items. Label boxes clearly and consider color-coding by room.

One Week Out

• Confirm the moving schedule. Recheck details with your movers for time, location, and any special requests.

• Arrange donation pickups. Many charitable organizations offer free pickups for clothing, furniture, and household goods.

• Forward mail and notify service providers. Contact banks, insurance companies, and utility services with your new address.

Prioritize Comfort and Communication

For seniors, moving can be both physically and emotionally taxing. Make sure your family stays in the loop throughout the process. Open communication reduces confusion and helps everyone feel supported—especially if emotions are running high.

Discuss living arrangements early on. Whether it’s a retirement community, a ground-level suite, or a home near family, being on the same page avoids last-minute complications.

Visit the New Home Before the Move

If possible, visit the new property ahead of time. This helps ease anxiety and gives time to assess any potential safety needs, such as bathroom grab bars or step-free entryways. Familiarity with the space helps seniors envision the new chapter with more confidence.

Choose the Right Moving Company

Senior moves often require more patience, care, and personal service. Choose a moving company with a track record of working with older adults. Ask about how they screen their crews, how detailed their estimates are, and whether they offer packing, storage, or other support services.

At Canada’s Most Wanted Movers, we’re licensed, insured, and BBB accredited—and we’re known for treating every client like family.

Keep Health a Priority

Before the move, make time for medical appointments and discussions about the upcoming change. Moving can be physically demanding, so check with your doctor to make sure any medical needs are accounted for. Don’t forget to ask about transferring records or getting referrals in your new area.

Packing Made Simple

A room-by-room plan works best. Start early and clearly label boxes with the room name and contents. For breakables or sentimental items, use bubble wrap and consider letting professionals pack for extra peace of mind. Pack medications and essentials separately in a small overnight bag so they’re always accessible.

Moving Day: Stay Calm, Stay Organized

On moving day, make sure to:

• Verify the moving team (company logos, uniformed staff, ID if needed)

• Have someone do a final walkthrough to check for forgotten items

• Keep personal and sensitive items with a trusted family member

• Review all moving documents before signing

Settling In & Making the New Place Feel Like Home

Once the move is complete, unpack slowly and thoughtfully. Set up essential rooms first, like the bedroom and kitchen. Make sure food is stocked and prescriptions are accessible.

Take time to explore the neighborhood, visit local stores or parks, and meet the neighbors. It helps make the new place feel familiar faster. Most importantly—celebrate the move. A small family gathering or cozy dinner goes a long way in making everyone feel at home.