Moving day is exciting, but let’s be honest—it’s also exhausting. Whether you’re moving across town or into your dream home a few cities over, the day can quickly turn from smooth to stressful if you forget the small but essential items you need to get through those first 24 hours.
That’s why we’ve created a Moving Day Essentials Checklist, designed specifically for Canadian homeowners to print, fill out, and keep handy when the big day arrives.
Let’s walk through why this checklist matters, what it covers, and how you can use it to make your move as smooth as possible.
Download your free printable checklist here to get started, and don’t forget—you’ll find additional versions for digital and e-ink devices later in this article.
Why You Need a Moving Day Checklist
You’ve packed every box, hired the movers, and arranged for utility transfers. You’re ready, right?
Not so fast.
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is packing everything away—including the items they’ll need right away in their new home. Things like your phone charger, medications, or even something as simple as a roll of toilet paper can be frustrating to dig for when you’re standing in an unfamiliar space surrounded by boxes.
A Moving Day Essentials Checklist keeps all your must-haves in one place, so you don’t have to rip open boxes or make a late-night trip to the store.
What’s On the Checklist?
We designed our checklist to be simple, printable, and practical, covering everything from personal items to household basics. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s included:
✅ Personal Essentials
- Wallet, keys, and ID
- Medications and prescriptions
- Cell phone and charger
- Important documents like your purchase agreement or lease
✅ Household Essentials
- Toilet paper and paper towels
- Cleaning supplies
- Trash bags
- Dish soap and basic tools
- Flashlights and batteries
✅ Kids and Pets (if applicable)
- Snacks and favourite toys
- Diapers or baby supplies
- Pet food, leash, or carrier
✅ Extras to Pack Last
- Coffee maker or kettle
- Bedding and towels
- Phone book or contact list
- Any item marked “Open First”
We even include a section at the top for your new address and phone number, making it easy to share with movers, delivery drivers, or family members.
Download the Checklist for Print, Digital, or Your E-Ink Device
We’ve made this checklist available in multiple formats so you can use it however works best for you:
🖨️ For Print
Print a copy and keep it with your moving folder, packing supplies, or taped to the front door as a final check before leaving your old home.
💻 For Digital Use
Use the fillable PDF version directly on your iPad, tablet, or computer. Type directly into the checklist and check off items as you go.
📄 For Supernote E-Ink Devices
If you own a Supernote, follow these simple steps to add our checklist as a reusable template. Click here to download the moving day checklist for Supernote devices and then follow the instructions below:
- Open a notebook on your Supernote device.
- Tap the three-dot More menu (top or bottom toolbar).
- Tap Customization.
- Under the Customization tab, tap the checklist PDF file (search by file name if needed or tap Select from MyStyle).
- Select the page(s) you want by tapping the thumbnails.
- Tap Apply as Template.
📝 For reMarkable Devices
We’ve also formatted a version of this checklist for reMarkable devices.
👉 Download the reMarkable version here
Share It With Friends, Family, or Clients
Know someone else who’s moving soon?
Feel free to print, share, or send this checklist to anyone who might benefit from having an easy-to-use Moving Day Essentials guide. It’s one small way you can help someone else avoid unnecessary moving day stress.
Need Mortgage Help Before You Move?
If your move includes securing a new mortgage or refinancing your current home, we’re here to help with that, too. At The Local Broker, we provide personalized mortgage solutions tailored to your budget and lifestyle.
Contact us today to get started with expert advice on mortgage approvals, refinancing options, or just to ask a few questions.