A step-by-step planning guide created by export-certified Toronto relocation experts
The Complete Toronto International Moving Checklist & Day Planner
A step-by-step planning guide created by export-certified Toronto relocation experts
Plan your overseas move with a proven, time-based checklist used by professional international movers. Know exactly what to do, when to do it, and how to avoid costly mistakes.
Why You Need a Professional International Moving Planner in Toronto
Our moving consultants are export-certified, trained in international regulations, and experienced with Toronto-specific logistics like elevator bookings, building access policies, and parking permits. This planner reflects real-world procedures followed during a professional international relocation.
📅 Your Structured International Moving Timeline
🟦Phase 1 - 6–8 Weeks Out: Strategy & Consultation
1. Schedule Your Expert Pre-Move Consultation
Book a video or in-home survey with Home To Home Relocations. Our export-certified consultant will:
✔ assess shipment volume
✔ confirm timeline options
✔ identify customs requirements
✔ provide an accurate quote
✔ guide you on prohibited items
2. Gather All Essential Personal Documents
Start collecting:
✔ passports
✔ visas
✔ work/study permits
✔ vaccination records
✔ marriage/birth certificates
✔ international school records
3. Secure Building Access (Toronto/GTA Logistics)
GTA high-rises typically require:
elevator reservations
insurance certificates from the moving company
loading dock access confirmation
move-in/move-out hours
We coordinate these documents for you.
4. Downsize to Optimize Volume & Cost
International shipping is billed by volume or container space. Downsizing saves money.
Sort into: donate • sell • recycle • dispose.
5. Review Destination Country Regulations
Our specialists provide guidance on:
restricted items
duty-free allowances
electrical compatibility
quarantine rules (Australia, New Zealand, UK, etc.)
🟦Phase 2 - 4–5 Weeks Out: Logistics & Inventory
1. Finalize Shipping Method (FCL, LCL, Air)
Your consultant will help choose:
FCL (full container load)
LCL (shared container)
Air freight
2. Separate Valuables for Hand-Carry
Set aside:
jewelry
passports
electronics
medicines
documents
These typically travel with you—not inside the shipment.
3. Complete Your Detailed Home Inventory
An accurate inventory reduces customs delays.
Your coordinator will prepare an electronic packing list.
4. Book Flights & Temporary Accommodations
Book your flights and temporary accommodations early—especially during busy travel seasons.
🟦Phase 3 - 2–3 Weeks Out: Home Preparation
1. Confirm Packing Access & Permits
We coordinate:
elevator bookings (Toronto condos)
parking permits
loading zone access
building security registration
2. Prepare Appliances and Disconnect Utilities
Some appliances must be:
professionally disconnected
drained (washers)
cleaned for bio-security regulations
Your consultant advises based on destination.
3.Isolate Restricted & Flammable Items
Common restricted items:
liquids
perishables
aerosols
cleaning chemicals
flammable items
batteries (varies by carrier)
4. Cancel or Transfer Utilities & Subscriptions
Cancel or transfer:
hydro
gas
internet
insurance
subscriptions
🟦 Phase 4 - 1 Week Out: Final Documentation
1. Finalize Insurance & Inventory Update
We help finalize:
list of goods
replacement values
insurance declaration
special handling notes
2. Pack Essential Personal Luggage
Keep essentials for the first few weeks abroad:
clothing
medications
chargers
immigration documents
kids essentials
basic toiletries
3. Confirm Destination Delivery Details
If temporary housing:
We arrange storage at destination until you receive keys.
🟦 Phase 5 - International Moving Day
Professional Export Packing & Loading Procedures
✔ export-grade wrapping
✔ custom crating (art, glass, antiques)
✔ detailed inventory preparation
✔ labelling for customs
✔ protective floor coverings
✔ secure loading into container or shuttle vehicle
Before the team leaves:
review the final inventory list
confirm transit times
confirm delivery agent details
sign the export Bill of Lading
Your move coordinator provides real-time updates until delivery.
🟦 Phase 6 - After Departure: Tracking & Arrival
1. Real-Time Shipment Tracking & Updates
We provide port updates, customs alerts, and ETA timelines.
2.Prepare Destination Customs Documents
Such as:
passport copy
visa
work permit
arrival confirmation
power of attorney for customs broker
3. Coordinate Final Delivery & Unpacking
Your destination agent contacts you to schedule:
✔ unloading
✔ unpacking
✔ assembly
✔ debris removal
Book Your Free Pre-Move Consultation
Let us simplify your move with transparent guidance and a truly personalized service experience.
📞 1-647-361-3100 | 📧 info@h-hrelo.com
Proudly Serving Toronto &
The Entire GTA
- Toronto •
- Mississauga •
- Oakville •
- Burlington •
- Vaughan •
- Richmond Hill •
- Markham •
- Oshawa •
- Newmarket •
- Etobicoke •
- Scarborough •
- North York •
- Brampton •
- Pickering •
- Whitby •
- Barrie •
📞 Call: 1-647-361-3100
📧 Email: info@h-hrelo.com
📍 Toronto • GTA • Ontario
Your next chapter is waiting — and we would be honored to help you begin it – door-to-door Moving Service