Military & RCMP Moving Tips

Creating a moving binder can be an excellent way to stay organized and reduce stress when relocating for employment. Here’s a guide to help you set up your moving binder:

1. Choose Your Binder: Select a sturdy binder that can hold all your important documents and paperwork securely. Make sure it has enough pockets and dividers to keep everything organized.
2. Dividers and Sections: Divide your binder into sections based on different aspects of your relocation process. Some suggested sections include:
   • Moving Checklist: A comprehensive list of tasks to complete before, during, and after the move.
   • Important Documents: Copies of your employment contract, lease agreement, moving quotes, insurance policies, etc.
   • Moving Logistics: Details about moving companies, packing supplies, transportation arrangements, and any other logistical information.
   • Finances: Budget breakdown, receipts, and any financial documents related to your relocation expenses.
   • Housing: Information about your new home or apartment, including rental agreements, inspection reports, and utility setup details.
   • Employment: Documents related to your new job, such as offer letters, employment contracts, HR contacts, etc.
   • Personal: Any additional personal documents or information relevant to your move, such as medical records, school transcripts, etc.
3. Checklists: Create checklists for each phase of your move (pre-move, moving day, post-move) to ensure you don’t forget anything important. You can find pre-made templates online or customize your own based on your specific needs.
4. Document Organization: Use sheet protectors or clear plastic sleeves to store important documents safely. Label each document clearly and arrange them in chronological or alphabetical order for easy reference.
5. Contacts List: Compile a list of essential contacts related to your move, including moving companies, real estate agents, landlords, utility providers, employers, etc. Include their names, phone numbers, email addresses, and any other relevant information.
6. Maps and Directions: Print out maps and directions for your new city or neighborhood, including routes to your new workplace, grocery stores, hospitals, etc.
7. Emergency Information: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local emergency services, doctors, and neighbors in your new area.
8. Personal Notes: Leave space for personal notes and reminders throughout your binder. This can be helpful for jotting down last-minute tasks or important details you don’t want to forget.
9. Backup Digital Copies: Consider scanning important documents and saving digital copies as a backup. Store these files securely on your computer or in a cloud storage service for easy access.
10. It is recommended that you take a movie of all your household and personal items that are being packed and moved.  This can be a life saver in the event you have to file a claim.  Note:  Very Important!

By creating a comprehensive moving binder, you can stay organized and ensure a smooth transition to your new location for employment.

Decluttering your house before moving can save you time, money, and energy during the relocation process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you declutter effectively:

1. Start Early: Begin the decluttering process as soon as possible, ideally several weeks before your moving date. This will give you enough time to go through each room thoroughly without feeling rushed.
2. Create a Plan: Develop a decluttering plan by breaking down the process into manageable tasks. Decide which areas of your home to tackle first and set specific goals for each session.
3. Gather Supplies: Gather supplies such as boxes, garbage bags, labels, markers, and sorting bins to help you organize and categorize your belongings.
4. Sort Items: Go through each room and systematically sort items into categories:
   • Keep: Items you want to keep and take with you to your new home.
   • Donate/Sell: Items that are in good condition but no longer needed. Consider donating to charity or selling them online or at a garage sale.
   • Dispose: Items that are broken, expired, or no longer usable. Dispose of them responsibly, either by recycling, donating, or throwing them away.
5. Use the “Four-Box” Method: Use the “Four-Box” method to streamline the sorting process. Label four boxes or bins as Keep, Donate/Sell, Trash, and Unsure. Place each item into the appropriate box as you go through your belongings.
6. Be Ruthless: When deciding what to keep, be ruthless and honest with yourself. Ask yourself if you’ve used or needed the item in the past year. If not, consider letting it go.
7. Declutter Room by Room: Focus on one room at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Start with less sentimental areas like storage rooms, closets, and the garage before moving on to more sentimental spaces like bedrooms and living areas.
8. Consider Sentimental Items: Sentimental items can be the hardest to declutter. Take your time with these items and only keep the ones that hold significant meaning or memories for you.
9. Organize as You Go: As you declutter, organize the items you plan to keep by category and label boxes accordingly. This will make packing and unpacking much easier later on.
10. Dispose of Unwanted Items: Once you’ve finished decluttering, make arrangements to dispose of the items you don’t want to keep. Schedule donation pickups, plan a garage sale, or arrange for bulk trash pickup as needed.
11. Reward Yourself: Celebrate your decluttering progress with a small reward or treat yourself to something enjoyable. Moving can be stressful, so take time to acknowledge your hard work and progress.

By following these steps and staying organized, you can effectively declutter your house before moving and make the relocation process smoother and more manageable.

Taking a digital inventory when moving can offer several benefits:

1. Organization: A digital inventory allows you to systematically catalog all your belongings. You can categorize items by room, type, or value, making it easier to keep track of everything during the packing and unpacking process.
2. Documentation: Digital inventories provide visual documentation of your belongings before the move. This can be valuable for insurance purposes in case of loss, damage, or theft during the relocation process.
3. Efficiency: With a digital inventory, you can quickly search for specific items without having to sift through boxes or storage containers. This can save time both during packing and when setting up your new home.
4. Space Optimization: By documenting your belongings digitally, you can better plan how to pack and organize them for efficient use of space in moving boxes and storage areas.
5. Decluttering: Creating a digital inventory encourages you to assess your possessions and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard before the move. This can streamline the moving process and reduce the amount of unnecessary items you have to transport.
6. Sharing with Movers: Sharing your digital inventory with movers or helpers can ensure that they handle your belongings with care and place them in the correct rooms or areas upon arrival at your new home.
7. Remote Access: Digital inventories can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing you to review your belongings and make adjustments to your moving plan as needed, even if you’re not physically present at the location.
8. Memory Aid: Moving can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to forget items, especially smaller ones. A digital inventory serves as a memory aid, helping you remember everything you need to pack and ensuring nothing gets left behind.
9. Future Reference: After the move, your digital inventory can serve as a reference for organizing and decorating your new space. You can refer back to it when setting up rooms or making purchasing decisions for new furniture or decor.

Overall, taking a digital inventory when moving offers convenience, organization, and peace of mind throughout the relocation process. It’s a valuable tool that can make your move smoother and more efficient.

Packing a “first day box” or an essentials box is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition when relocating to a new home.

This box should contain items that you’ll need immediately upon arrival, before you’ve had a chance to unpack all your belongings. Here’s a list of items to consider packing in your first day box:

1. Toiletries:
   • Toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss
   • Soap or body wash
   • Shampoo and conditioner
   • Lotion
   • Deodorant
   • Hairbrush or comb
   • Razor and shaving cream
2. Medications:
   • Prescription medications
   • Over-the-counter pain relievers
   • Allergy medication
   • First aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and ointment
3. Clothing:
   • A change of clothes for each family member
   • Pajamas
   • Undergarments
   • Socks
   • Comfortable shoes
4. Bedding:
   • Sheets
   • Blankets or comforter
   • Pillows
   • Pillowcases
5. Towels:
   • Bath towels
   • Hand towels
   • Washcloths
6. Kitchen Essentials:
   • Paper plates, cups, and utensils
   • Disposable or reusable food containers
   • Non-perishable snacks
   • Bottled water or beverages
   • Coffee maker or instant coffee and tea bags
   • Basic condiments like salt, pepper, and cooking oil
7. Cleaning Supplies:
   • All-purpose cleaner
   • Dish soap and sponge
   • Paper towels
   • Trash bags
8. Important Documents:
   • Identification (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
   • Insurance documents
   • Medical records
   • Rental or home purchase documents
   • Contact information for utility providers, movers, and emergency contacts
9. Electronics and Chargers:
   • Cell phone and charger
   • Laptop or tablet and charger
   • Portable power bank
10. Tools:
    • Basic tools like a screwdriver, hammer, and wrench for any immediate assembly or repairs
11. Miscellaneous:
    • Flashlight with batteries
    • Scissors
    • Notepad and pen
    • Pet supplies (if applicable)

By packing these essential items in your first day box, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle your first day in your new home without having to search through multiple boxes or make unnecessary trips to the store. Make sure to label the box clearly and keep it easily accessible during your move.

Moving with children due to work can be a challenging experience, but with careful planning and consideration, you can help make the transition smoother for your family. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process:

1. Communicate Openly: Talk to your children about the move as soon as possible. Explain why it’s happening and address any concerns or fears they may have. Encourage them to ask questions and express their feelings.
2. Involve Them in the Process: Involve your children in the moving process to help them feel more connected and in control. Let them help pack their belongings, choose new decorations for their room, and make decisions about their new home.
3. Research the New Area: Research your new location together as a family. Explore the neighborhood, nearby parks, schools, and other amenities. Highlight exciting attractions or activities that your children might enjoy.
4. Visit the New Location: If possible, visit the new location with your children before the move. Familiarize them with the area and show them around their new home and community. This can help alleviate anxiety and build excitement about the upcoming change.
5. Maintain Routines: Try to maintain familiar routines as much as possible during the moving process. Stick to regular meal times, bedtime routines, and other daily activities to provide a sense of stability and comfort for your children.
6. Pack a “Kids’ Box”: Pack a special box or bag for each child with their favorite toys, books, games, snacks, and comfort items. Keep these items easily accessible during the move and on the first day in your new home to help them feel more at ease.
7. Stay Positive: Maintain a positive attitude about the move, even if you’re feeling stressed or anxious yourself. Children often pick up on their parents’ emotions, so try to approach the transition with optimism and enthusiasm.
8. Stay Connected: Help your children stay connected with friends and family from their old home. Set up video calls, write letters, or plan visits to maintain relationships and provide emotional support during the transition.
9. Get to Know the New School: If your children will be changing schools, schedule a visit to their new school before the move. Meet with teachers, tour the facilities, and introduce your children to their new classmates if possible.
10. Be Patient and Understanding: Moving can be overwhelming for children, and they may experience a range of emotions during the transition. Be patient, understanding, and supportive as they adjust to their new surroundings.

By following these tips and providing plenty of support and reassurance, you can help your children navigate the challenges of moving due to work and ensure a smoother transition for your family.

When relocating within the Canadian military, there are several parties you typically need to notify:

1. Your Chain of Command: Inform your immediate supervisor or commanding officer about your relocation plans. They will guide you through the necessary steps and paperwork within the military structure.
2. Military Personnel Assistance Visit (MPAV) Coordinator: This is the person designated to assist military members and their families with relocation. They can provide guidance on the relocation process, housing options, and any other related matters.
3. Canadian Forces Integrated Relocation Program (CFIRP) Coordinator: If you’re entitled to relocation benefits under the CFIRP, you’ll need to work with a coordinator to arrange for reimbursement of eligible expenses related to your move.
4. Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC): If you have a family, the MFRC can provide support and resources to help with the relocation process, including information on schools, childcare, housing, and community services at your new location.
5. Personal Support Program (PSP): PSP offers various services to support the well-being of military personnel and their families, including assistance with relocation-related stress and transition support.
6. Finance Office: Notify the finance office of your relocation plans to ensure that any entitlements or allowances related to the move are processed correctly.
7. Health Services: If you or your family members receive medical services through the military, you may need to inform the relevant health services office about your relocation to ensure continuity of care.

Important People to Notify when Relocating

• Revenue Canada
• Credit Card Companies
• Motor Vehicles
• Schools
• Utilities
• Cell phone carrier
• Post Office

Changing Your Address With Federal Government agencies
Notify Provincial/Territory Agencies
Other Service Providers you may need to Notify
Save These Address Change Checklists to Your Phone

Canada Revenue Agency Address Change. Use this online service to change your home address, your mailing address, and your phone number(s).

My Service Canada Account. Use this online service to update your information for Employment Insurance (EI), Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Canada Pension Plan disability and Old Age Security (OAS).