🚚✅Surrey Moving Checklist: What to Do Before, During & After

Moving to or within Surrey, BC? Whether you’re settling in Whalley, downsizing in Fleetwood, or upgrading in Newton, moving can be overwhelming. This local checklist breaks it down step by step — so you don’t miss a thing!

✅ Before the Move

8 Weeks Before

• Research and hire a trusted Surrey moving company (search BCServiceFinder.ca for local movers)
• Create a moving budget and timeline
• Start decluttering and donate unused items to local Surrey charities
• Begin collecting free moving boxes from grocery stores or buy from U-Haul on King George Blvd

4 Weeks Before

• Submit change-of-address forms with Canada Post
• Update your address with BC Hydro, ICBC, and your service providers
• Schedule disconnection/connection of utilities at both locations
• Arrange time off work for moving day
• Book elevator time if moving to/from an apartment building

2 Weeks Before

• Begin packing non-essential items
• Create a detailed inventory of valuable items
• Confirm details with your Surrey moving company
• Arrange for childcare or pet care on moving day
• Transfer or cancel local services (Internet, cable, security system)
• Notify your landlord if you’re renting

1 Week Before

• Pack most remaining items, leaving only essentials
• Clean your current home thoroughly
• Dispose of items that can’t be moved (paint, propane tanks) at Surrey Transfer Station
• Set aside important documents and valuables to transport yourself
• Prepare a “first night” box with essentials
• Pick up keys to your new home if possible

🚚 During the Move

Moving Day Essentials

• Keep important items in a separate bag (medications, documents, chargers, snacks)
• Label boxes clearly by room — and mark “unpack first” boxes
• Take photos of electronics before disconnecting for easy setup
• Check all closets, cabinets, and storage spaces before leaving
• Record all utility meter readings at both properties
• Keep children and pets away from the moving activity
• Have cash on hand for tipping movers if service exceeds expectations

First Day Tasks

• Verify all boxes and furniture arrived safely
• Test all utilities: electricity, water, heating, and cooling
• Locate the circuit breaker and water shut-off valve
• Install new locks or rekey existing ones
• Set up your bed and bathroom essentials first
• Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors

🏠 After the Move

First Week

• Unpack essentials and organize room by room
• Check for any damage to your belongings and file claims if necessary
• Change your address on your driver’s license at the ICBC office in Surrey
• Register with a nearby family doctor (Surrey Medical Clinic or Boundary Park Medical)
• Register your children at their new school if applicable
• Update your car insurance with your new address

First Month

• Explore your new Surrey neighbourhood — visit Holland Park or Bear Creek Park
• Meet your neighbours and join local community Facebook groups
• Support local businesses in your area (try Central City Shopping Centre or Guildford Town Centre)
• Register to vote at your new address
• Find the nearest emergency services (Surrey Memorial Hospital, Surrey RCMP)
• Locate essential services (grocery stores, pharmacies, banks)
• Consider joining local community centers like Cloverdale Recreation Centre or Guildford Recreation Centre

🧠 Frequently Asked Questions

Planning a move in Surrey? Find top-rated movers and home service pros on BCServiceFinder.ca — trusted by locals across British Columbia. Tag someone who’s moving soon!

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