The Ultimate Moving Checklist for Kelowna, BC: What Residents Should Prepare Before Moving Day

Moving in Kelowna can feel overwhelming, whether you’re relocating from Glenmore, Rutland, Downtown, or the Upper Mission. A smooth move starts with planning, clear timelines, and a checklist that fits your life. At Salmons Moving, we’ve helped Kelowna residents move safely and stress-free for decades—this guide brings together the most important steps to prepare before moving day.

1. Start Planning 6–8 Weeks Before Your Move

Give yourself enough time to organize. Early planning helps lower stress and prevents last-minute surprises on moving day.

• Create a folder for quotes, receipts, and contracts.

• Decide what’s moving and what can be donated or sold.

• Contact schools, banks, insurance providers, and utility companies.

• If you rent, submit your notice to vacate as early as possible.

2. Declutter Room by Room

A lighter move is a faster, easier, and more affordable move.

• Sort all items into “keep,” “donate,” “sell,” and “recycle.”

• Donate usable items to Kelowna charities such as thrift stores and community programs.

• Dispose of hazardous materials properly—cleaners, paint, oils, and chemicals usually cannot be loaded on a moving truck.

3. Gather Packing Supplies Early

Good supplies protect your belongings during transport, especially in a city like Kelowna where weather can change quickly.

You’ll need:

• Small, medium, and large moving boxes

• Packing tape

• Bubble wrap and paper

• Mattress covers

• Labels or markers

If you prefer not to handle the packing, Salmons Moving offers professional packing services to protect delicate items and keep everything organized.

4. Pack Smart and Stay Organized

Packing a bit each day keeps the workload manageable.

• Pack one room at a time.

• Label each box with its room and contents.

• Keep heavy items in smaller boxes for easier lifting.

• Wrap breakables individually and mark boxes as FRAGILE.

• Keep important documents in a personal bag or file folder.

5. Prepare Your Home for Moving Day

A few simple steps make moving day smooth for you and your movers.

• Clear walkways inside and outside your home.

• Disassemble large furniture if you’re doing it yourself.

• Protect floors from dirt or snow during the winter months.

• Reserve elevator access if you live in a condo or apartment.

If needed, Salmons Moving can handle all disassembly, protection, and preparation work for you.

6. Confirm Logistics the Week Before

To avoid any moving-day confusion:

• Confirm your booking date and arrival window.

• Double-check your new address and access instructions.

• Notify your movers about special items (pianos, safes, antiques).

• Arrange childcare or pet care for a smoother move.

7. Essentials to Keep With You on Moving Day

These items should never go on the truck:

• Medications

• Phones, chargers, and electronics

• Important documents

• Valuables and jewelry

• A small toolkit

• Snacks and water

• A first-night box with toiletries, towels, bedsheets, and basic supplies

8. Set Up Utilities in Your New Kelowna Home

Avoid delays on move-in day by arranging utilities ahead of time.

• Electricity

• Gas

• Water

• Wi-Fi and cable

• Home security (optional)

Kelowna utility activation can involve short wait times during busy seasons, so schedule early.

9. Do a Final Walkthrough Before the Movers Arrive

Make sure everything is ready:

• Check every closet, drawer, and cabinet.

• Confirm fragile items are packed securely.

• Set aside your essentials box.

• Ensure parking is available for the moving truck.

10. Make Your Move Easy With Salmons Moving

Salmons Moving has been helping families move in Kelowna for decades. Our trained, insured crews handle every detail—from packing to transportation, to careful delivery—so your move is smooth from start to finish.

Whether you’re moving across Kelowna or to another province, we’re here to make the process simple and stress-free.