From riverfront homes in Manotick and family houses in Barrhaven to new builds in Riverside South and country estates in Greely, Ottawa offers a neighbourhood for every lifestyle. Once your offer is accepted and your financing is finalized, your dream of home ownership is within reach — and it’s time to prepare for your next big step: moving in.

At The Wright Team, we know that buying a home is more than a transaction — it’s the beginning of a new chapter. As your local real estate experts, we’re here to help you every step of the way, from securing the keys to settling into your new neighbourhood.

This guide, created in collaboration with the team at Wise Move Canada, shares expert packing and planning tips to help you choose trusted Ottawa movers and make your transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Plan Your Move with Confidence
A detailed plan is the foundation of a successful move. Here’s a simple week-by-week breakdown to help you stay organized once your closing date is confirmed.

Eight Weeks Before

• Start researching reputable Ottawa moving companies.
• Declutter room by room and decide what to sell, donate, or keep.
• Create a checklist for key dates such as closing, final inspection, and utility setup.
• Use a furniture volume calculator to estimate moving costs.
• Read reviews, confirm insurance coverage, and request quotes from several movers.

Six Weeks Before

• Book your preferred moving date and confirm details in writing.
• Notify your utility providers (Hydro Ottawa, Enbridge Gas, Bell, Rogers).
• Start using up pantry and freezer items to reduce what needs packing.

Four Weeks Before

• Begin packing non-essential items like décor, books, and seasonal gear.
• Update your address with Canada Post, your bank, and other service providers.
• Schedule time off work if needed.

Two Weeks Before

• Confirm final details with your movers, including delivery times and access points.
• Pack an “essentials box” for your first few days in the new home.
• Arrange mail forwarding with Canada Post.

Moving Day

• Supervise loading and unloading to ensure everything’s handled with care.
• Complete a final walkthrough — check closets, basements, and storage spaces.
• Turn off utilities, lock up, and hand over the keys once everything’s ready.

Choosing the Right Ottawa Moving Team

The right movers make all the difference on moving day. Look for companies that are fully insured, have the proper equipment and truck sizes, and maintain consistently strong customer reviews.

Ottawa’s mix of winding village roads, steep suburban driveways, and unpredictable weather makes professional movers worth every cent. A trusted moving team can protect your belongings, manage logistics efficiently, and ensure your move goes smoothly — so you can focus on enjoying your new home.

For additional tips or a customized moving estimate, you can reach out directly to Wise Move Canada.

Packing Tips for a Stress-Free Move

Staying organized is half the battle. Invest in quality materials and label each box clearly with both its contents and destination room.

You’ll need:

• Sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and heavy-duty tape
• Labels or colour-coded stickers
• Wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes
• Extra padding for dishes, glassware, or artwork

Keep important documents, valuables, and a small essentials bag with you during the move — not in the moving truck.

On Moving Day

Before your movers arrive:

• Double-check that all boxes are sealed and labelled.
• Arrange care for pets or children.
• Keep water, snacks, and chargers handy.

After loading:

• Inspect every room to ensure nothing’s left behind.
• Turn off lights and breakers, close windows, and lock up.
• Take one last look — your next chapter is waiting.

Settling Into Ottawa

Once you’ve unpacked the essentials — the bed, kitchen basics, and bathroom items — take your time to make the space your own. Unpack one room at a time and recycle boxes as you go.

When you’re ready to explore, get to know your new city:

• Update your address with ServiceOntario, your OHIP card, and vehicle registration.
• Find a new family doctor or dentist through local networks.
• Explore your new community. Stroll through Watson’s Mill in Manotick, discover local trails in Greely, or visit Barrhaven’s shops and cafés — each community has its own rhythm and sense of connection.

Your Next Move Starts with The Wright Team

Finding the right home is exciting — but getting the keys and moving in? That’s when it really starts to feel real. Wherever you’re headed, The Wright Team is here to make your move seamless, stress-free, and full of possibility.

Let’s make sure your next chapter feels right from day one.

Contributed in collaboration with Wise Move Canada.