Free guide for your Hamilton move
Hamilton Moving
Guide
A calm, step-by-step plan for your move.
This guide walks you through your move week by week, from your first boxes to your first week in your new home. The printable checklists at the back help you keep track of the details.
Download the Free GuideFree. No email required. No contact information required.
Why this guide matters
Moving is easier in small steps.
Even before you have a set moving date, starting early will lessen what you’ll have left to do right before the move, when things tend to get more hectic.
Packing always takes longer than you imagine, so the more you get done ahead of time, the less stressful it will be as the move gets closer.
On closing day
Keys are usually released once the lawyers complete the transfer of funds and documents, which can be later in the day.
So plan for it
Ask your lawyer what to expect, and book your movers with some flexibility.
What’s inside
From your first boxes to your first week in your new home
Get ready
- Sort firstThe less you move, the less you have to pack, carry and unpack.
- Quotes and your moving budgetCompare written quotes and track what your move will cost.
- Pack smarterPacking tips and a supplies checklist.
The countdown
- Four weeks beforeMovers, mail forwarding, insurance, utilities and schools.
- Two weeks and one week beforeMeals, repairs, cleaning, documents and your essentials box.
- Two days beforeThe fridge, a last check of cabinets and closets, and loose items.
Closing day and moving day
- Closing dayWhen keys are usually released, and how to plan around it.
- Moving dayFloors, pets, manuals and meter readings at both homes.
- Before leaving the houseA final checklist before you lock up for the last time.
Your first week
- Settling inLocks, alarms, shut-offs and updating your address.
- Six printable checklistsMoving day essentials, change of address, mover quotes, expenses, box inventory and important dates.
Take a look inside
Plan your move calmly, one step at a time
Moving in Hamilton
The local details that are easy to miss
Utilities
In Hamilton, water is billed by the City through Hamilton Utilities Billing, electricity by Alectra Utilities and natural gas by Enbridge Gas.
See Hamilton Utilities Billing →Furniture and other bulk items
For large items you’re leaving behind, book a City bulk item pickup: call 905-546-2489 at least a week ahead; up to four items are collected per pickup.
See the City’s bulk item rules →Paint, batteries and propane
Household hazardous waste goes to a City of Hamilton Community Recycling Centre, not the garbage.
Find household hazardous waste drop-off →Schools and your new address
Let the Hamilton-Wentworth District or Catholic District School Board know. Update your driver’s licence and vehicle permit within 6 days, and your health card within 30 days.
Change your address with ServiceOntario →Ready to take a closer look?
Each part of the guide covers one stretch of the move, with printable checklists to keep track of the details.
Download the GuideFree. No email required. No registration. No sales pitch.
If you’re not sure, ask
Timing a move around a closing date can be tricky. If you’re buying or selling with me, ask, and we’ll work it out together.
Mike McCarthy, REALTOR® · Real Broker Ontario Ltd.
Keep exploring
More resources for your move
This guide provides general information only and is not legal, financial, tax or mortgage advice. Programs, rules and costs change; confirm details for your situation with the appropriate professionals. Not intended to solicit clients already under contract with a brokerage.