What should I do before moving house?

Understanding Your Moving Timeline in Richmond, BC

Early Planning and Local Context

When moving within or into Richmond, BC, starting early is essential. Begin 8–10 weeks beforehand: research local moving companies, scout packing supplies nearby, and note peak traffic travel windows that may affect scheduling.

Richmond-Specific Considerations

  • Richmond’s unique geography, bridges, busy intersections, and limited weekend access, means logistics deserve special attention.
  • Adjust your timeline to allow for moving truck permits or loading zone reservations if needed.

Sample Pre-Move Timeline

Time Before MoveKey Actions
8–10 weeksResearch Richmond movers; request in-home or virtual quotes
6–8 weeksBook moving services; order or source eco-friendly packing materials locally
4–6 weeksBegin packing non-essentials; notify utilities and Richmond school districts if applicable
2–3 weeksPack by room; confirm moving date with neighbors and property managers
Final weekPack essentials box; clean both homes; double-check Richmond-specific parking or building access

This chart helps you visualize how to phase tasks while accommodating Richmond’s local nuances.


Declutter Before You Pack, and Save on Costs and Clutter

Room-by-Room Assessment

Go through each room and ask:

  • Do I still need or want this?
  • Is it worth packing and transporting?

Eco-Friendly Richmond Options

  • Donate gently used items to local charities like Richmond Food Bank or thrift stores
  • Organize a mini garage sale over a weekend, perhaps near Steveston Village or central neighbourhoods

Smart Sorting

Label piles as: Keep, Donate/Sell, Recycle, Trash. The less you move, the less you pay, and the easier the unpacking.


Finding the Best Moving Services in Richmond, BC

What to Prioritize in Your Search

  • Local coverage of Richmond neighborhoods and familiarity with municipal regulations
  • Transparent quotes that reflect real costs around rush hour or restricted access areas
  • Service variety: packing, disassembly, fragile item handling

Comparing Movers Efficiently

  • Ask for on-site or video quotes to get accurate estimates
  • Ensure movers are licensed and insured; confirm they follow BC moving regulations
  • Consider seasonal pricing, Richmond’s peak moving times (e.g., end of the month, July - August) may be more expensive, so booking early can save you money and stress

Detailed Packing Strategy for Richmond Moves

Gather Supplies from Local Sources

  • Richmond-based packaging stores and thrift shops often carry discounted materials, like gently used boxes
  • Use natural wrapping materials, old towels or linens, for fragile items to reduce waste

Room-by-Room Packing Plan

  • Kitchen: wrap dishes and glassware in towels; label containers “Kitchen – fragile”
  • Bedrooms: use wardrobe boxes for clothes; pack shoes and accessories in clear bins
  • Living Areas: disassemble large items if possible; label screws and hardware in small sealable bags

Inventory and Labeling

Maintain an inventory sheet, tracking box numbers, locations, and contents, to ease unpacking and reduce stress later.


Coordinating Utilities, Address Changes, and Services

Utilities to Manage in Your Move

Arrange for disconnection at your current Richmond address and activation at your new place:

  • Electricity, water, gas
  • Internet, cable, landline (if applicable)
  • Waste pickup and recycling services

Change of Address Checklist

Notify:

  • Canada Post for mail forwarding
  • Banks, insurance providers, healthcare offices
  • Any subscriptions or deliveries tied to your old Richmond address

Document Your Move: Protect Your Belongings

Pre-Move Documentation

Take photos or videos of:

  • Existing wall scratches or floor damage at your old Richmond property
  • Valuable items before loading, ideal for insurance or claims, if needed

Secure Important Papers

Keep passports, birth certificates, tenancy agreements, and moving contracts organized and portable, don’t pack them away in moving boxes.

Track What Moves When

Combine your inventory with labels and timelines to help trace belongings during unloading and unpacking.


Pack an Essentials Box and Plan for Day One Comfort

What to Include

  • Clothing, toiletries, chargers, basic kitchenware, snacks, and bottled water
  • Over-the-counter medicines, important daily-use items

Accessibility

Keep this essentials box with you in your vehicle or load it last onto the moving truck so it’s available immediately upon arrival.


Final Walk-Throughs and New Home Prep

At Your Old Richmond Home

  • Clean thoroughly: vacuum, wipe surfaces, check hidden areas (closets, cabinets)
  • Use this time to verify nothing is left behind

At Your New Place

  • Confirm utilities are functioning
  • Photograph any existing damage before moving in
  • Clean key areas, kitchen, bathrooms, floors, to make setting up smoother

Spotlight on BBX Moving Your Local Experts Ready to Help

BBX Moving in Richmond, BC, offers personalized, reliable, and compassionate service that lives up to their name: A Stress-Free Move Is Only a Call Away. Their team is deeply familiar with Richmond’s layout and logistics, from traffic patterns to building guidelines.

If you’re looking for tailored support, BBX Moving is ready to discuss your needs. They’re based at 3239 No 6 Rd #165, Richmond, BC V6V 1P6 and can be reached at (604) 323-0020 or via email at info@bbxmoving.com. One call connects you with local expertise, so your moving experience becomes smoother, less stressful, and professionally handled.


After the Move: Unpack with Ease and Settle In

Strategic Unpacking

  • Start with essentials box
  • Then tackle daily-use zones: kitchen, bedrooms, bathroom
  • Leave storage or decor areas for last to maintain momentum

Get Oriented in Your Richmond Community

  • Find nearby grocery stores, healthcare providers, transit routes, and recreation spaces
  • Introduce yourself to neighbors or condo staff, immediate connection boosts comfort and confidence

Final Address Updates

Update:

  • Your driver’s license and vehicle registration with ICBC
  • Employer, government bodies, and online services with your new Richmond BC address

Bonus Tips for a Hassle-Free Move in Richmond

  • Use color-coded labels to match rooms (e.g., teal for kitchen, yellow for bedroom)
  • Schedule childcare or pet care on moving day for safer, smoother logistics
  • Keep refreshments on hand for you and any helpers; Richmond summers can be hot
  • Take brief breaks during packing or unloading to avoid burnout, this is a marathon, not a sprint

Moving doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, especially in a vibrant city like Richmond, BC. With diligent planning, smart local insight, and trusted help like BBX Moving, you can transition with confidence and ease. From early prep to unpacked bliss, your journey starts with a clear plan, and yes, the right call makes all the difference.