Soooo, you’ve decided to make the move to London, Ontario. Great choice! To help you make your transition as smooth as possible, here’s the ultimate checklist to guide you through every step of the relocation process. From planning your move to settling into your new home, I’ve got you covered!

1. Plan Your Move

Set a Moving Date

• Choose a date that gives you enough time to prepare and settle in.

Create a Moving Budget

• Include costs for movers, packing supplies, travel, and any deposits or fees for your new home.

Hire a Moving Company or Rent a Truck

• Book early, especially if you’re moving during peak times. Check reviews and get quotes from multiple companies.

Notify Important Parties

• Inform your current landlord (if renting), utility companies, bank, and other important contacts about your move.

2. Find a Place to Live

Research Neighborhoods

• Check out family-friendly areas like Old North, Wortley Village, and Byron. Use resources like Realtor.ca to browse listings.

Visit Potential Homes

• If possible, visit London to view properties in person. If not, virtual tours can be a great alternative.

Secure Your New Home

• Once you find the perfect place, sign your lease or purchase agreement and pay any necessary deposits.

3. Organize Your Belongings

Declutter

• Go through your stuff and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or throw away.

Pack Efficiently

• Label boxes by room and contents. Pack essentials separately for easy access.

Arrange for Moving Supplies

• Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers are must-haves.

4. Take Care of Logistics

Change Your Address

• Update your address with Canada Post, banks, credit card companies, and any subscriptions or memberships.

Transfer Utilities

• Set up electricity, water, gas, internet, and any other utilities for your new home.

Register for Health Care

• Apply for an Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card if you're moving from another province.

School Enrollment

• Register your children at their new schools. Check out top options like Thames Valley District School Board for public schools and London International Academy for private education.

5. Prepare for Moving Day

Confirm Details with Movers

• Double-check the date, time, and any special instructions with your moving company.

Pack an Essentials Bag

• Include items like toiletries, medications, important documents, snacks, and a change of clothes.

Clean Your Current Home

• Whether renting or selling, ensure your current place is clean for the next occupants.

6. Settle Into Your New Home

Unpack Systematically

• Start with essentials like kitchen items, bedding, and toiletries. Take your time to arrange everything else.

Explore Your Neighborhood

• Visit local parks, shops, and cafes to get a feel for your new community. Check out Visit London Ontario for ideas.

Meet the Neighbors

• Introduce yourself to your new neighbors. They can be a great resource for local tips and recommendations.

7. Get Connected

Set Up Utilities

• Ensure electricity, water, gas, and internet are up and running.

Find Local Services

• Locate nearby grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and schools. Websites like London.ca can help you find local services.

Join Community Groups

• Look for local clubs, sports leagues, and community centers. The Forest City Sport & Social Club (FCSSC) is a great place to start.

8. Enjoy Your New City

Explore Local Attractions

• Visit popular spots like Victoria Park, Springbank Park, and Covent Garden Market.

Attend Festivals and Events

• Get to know the local culture by attending events like Sunfest and the London Fringe Theatre Festival.

Stay Active

• Join a gym, take up a new sport, or explore the extensive network of trails and parks.

Final Thoughts

Relocating to London, Ontario, can be an exciting adventure with the right preparation. Follow this ultimate checklist to ensure a smooth transition and start enjoying everything this wonderful city has to offer. Welcome to London – we can't wait to have you here!