Moving Day Guide

Overview

Moving day in British Columbia is more than rolling up to your new doorstep with a couch and a smile. In Metro Vancouver, parking permits, elevator bookings, and utility transfers can make—or break—the day. This guide lays out a realistic countdown, outlines the fees you should budget for, and highlights the local rules many first-time homebuyers overlook.

Key Takeaways

• Start logistical bookings—elevator, movers, and parking—six to eight weeks out in the Lower Mainland.
• Account for one-time fees: BC Hydro connection ($12.40) (BC Hydro (2025)), Canada Post mail forwarding within B.C. ($86.40 for 12 months) (Canada Post (2024)), and a City of Vancouver street-occupancy permit (~$61/day) (City of Vancouver (2024)).
• Most strata buildings require a refundable elevator damage deposit (often $200) and a non-refundable booking fee (≈$100). Confirm rules early.
• Pack an “essentials” bin with night-one items—sheets, toiletries, medication, device chargers—so you’re not rummaging through boxes at midnight.

8 Weeks Before Moving Day

Book Movers or a Truck

Summer weekends book up quickly. Compare three quotes, confirming they carry WCB & cargo insurance. If you’re DIY-ing, U-Haul outlets in Vancouver, Burnaby, and Richmond offer 17-foot trucks that fit most two-bed condos.

Reserve Building Amenities

For strata homes, lock in an elevator time slot. Some buildings allow only weekday moves; others limit the window to four hours. Ask about floor covering and whether the movers must list the strata as an additional insured.

Line Up Utility Transfers

• Electricity – Use BC Hydro’s online moving form. A $12.40 connection fee appears on your first bill.
• Natural Gas – FortisBC charges a $30 account setup if the line is inactive.
• Internet – Telus and Shaw both offer free self-install for existing customers, but appointments for fibre hookups can take two weeks.

2 Weeks Before

Change of Address Notifications

Set up Canada Post mail forwarding. Twelve months of provincial forwarding costs $86.40 and covers driver’s-licence renewals and CRA mail while you update records.

Update addresses with ICBC, MSP, and your strata management company to avoid fines.

Secure Parking Permits

In the City of Vancouver, a Temporary Street Occupancy Permit allows your moving truck to reserve curb space from 7 a.m.–6 p.m. The 2024 fee is $61.08 per day, plus a refundable sign deposit. Neighbouring municipalities (Burnaby, New West) issue similar permits—check city websites for rates.

Purge & Pack Strategically

Label boxes by room + priority. Use coloured tape for quick sorting. Donate furniture via Facebook Marketplace or Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore to minimise landfill fees.

Day Before & Moving Day

Confirm the Crew

Text your movers the elevator time slot and access code. If you rented a truck, pick it up the night before to avoid morning line-ups.

Protect Common Areas

Strata managers often supply padding for elevator walls. Bring extra furniture blankets and painter’s tape for hall corners.

First-Night Kit

• Bedding and pillows
• Toiletries + towel
• Phone and laptop chargers
• Basic kitchenware & coffee
• Cleaning supplies and garbage bags

Meter Readings

Snap photos of electricity and gas meters in both homes. Upload readings to BC Hydro/FortisBC online portals for accurate final bills.

After You Arrive

Perform a Safety Sweep

Test smoke and CO detectors; strata bylaws often mandate replacement every ten years. Locate the breaker panel and main water shut-off.

Register for Municipal Services

Many Metro Vancouver cities let owners sign up for MyCity portals to view property tax and utility balances. Doing so early prevents missed notices.

Recycle Responsibly

Flatten cardboard and drop it at regional recycling depots. Styrofoam is banned from curbside bins—take it to an Encorp Return-It location.

Need personalised advice? Reach out any time.

FAQs

Q: How early can I book BC Hydro service?
A: Up to 60 days in advance. Earlier bookings guarantee same-day power when you move in.

Q: Do I need insurance on moving day?
A: Your home insurance covers the new address as soon as you take possession, but confirm coverage with your broker. Movers’ cargo insurance does not cover your own vehicle if you’re DIY-ing.

Q: Can I move on a holiday?
A: Many strata prohibit holiday moves due to increased noise complaints. Check bylaws and, if allowed, expect higher mover surcharges.

Q: Is tipping movers customary in Vancouver?
A: Yes—10%–15% of the bill, or $20–$30 per mover for a half-day job, is standard.

This guide provides general information only and may not reflect the latest regulations or market conditions. It is not legal or financial advice. Always verify details and consult qualified real-estate, mortgage, and legal professionals before making decisions.