At Stow It All on PEI, we've helped hundreds of Islanders through moves of every size. Here are our top moving tips to help your next move go as smoothly as possible.
1. Start Earlier Than You Think
One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting until the last week to begin packing.
A good rule of thumb is to start packing items you don't use every day about three to four weeks before moving day. Seasonal decorations, extra dishes, books, and keepsakes are great places to start.
The less you leave for the final few days, the less stressful moving day will be.
2. Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is the perfect opportunity to decide what you really want to keep.
Ask yourself:
Have I used this in the last year?
Would I buy it again today?
Does it still fit my current lifestyle?
Donate, recycle, or sell anything you no longer need. You'll save time, reduce moving costs, and have less to unpack.
3. Label Every Box Clearly
Instead of writing only "Kitchen," try labels like:
Kitchen – Everyday Dishes
Kitchen – Small Appliances
Bedroom – Closet
Bathroom – Towels
Your future self will thank you.
4. Pack an Essentials Box
The first night in a new home can be hectic.
Pack one box containing:
Toiletries
Phone chargers
Medications
Coffee maker and coffee
Paper towels
Basic tools
A change of clothes
Bedding
Keep this box with you instead of loading it onto the moving truck.
5. Use the Right Size Boxes
Heavy items belong in smaller boxes.
Books, tools, and canned goods quickly become difficult to lift if packed into large cartons.
Large boxes work best for lighter items such as bedding, pillows, or clothing.
6. Protect Fragile Items Properly
Wrap dishes individually and pack them vertically rather than flat whenever possible.
Fill empty spaces in boxes with packing paper or towels so items can't shift during transport.
7. Don't Empty Every Drawer
Dressers can often be moved with lightweight clothing still inside.
Removing everything creates extra work and more boxes.
Always follow the recommendations of your moving company for heavier furniture.
8. Measure Before Moving Day
Measure:
Doorways
Hallways
Stairwells
Elevators (if applicable)
Large furniture
It's much easier to solve access problems before moving day than while carrying a sofa.
9. Keep Important Documents With You
Don't pack passports, financial records, legal documents, jewellery, or medications in the moving truck.
Carry these personally.
10. Consider Using Storage During Your Move
Many moves don't happen in a single day.
Storage can make moving much easier if:
Your new home isn't ready yet.
You're renovating.
You're staging your home for sale.
You're downsizing.
You're helping a family member move.
You simply need more time to organize.
A storage unit gives you flexibility and helps reduce clutter during the transition.
11. Leave Yourself Room to Work
Trying to pack around piles of boxes becomes frustrating.
Moving some packed boxes into storage before moving day creates more working space and makes your home easier to navigate.
Many homeowners also find that a less cluttered home shows better when it's listed for sale.
12. Make Unpacking Easier
As you unload your new home:
Set up beds first.
Assemble essential furniture.
Unpack the kitchen next.
Save decorations until later.
Getting the basics finished first helps your new house feel like home much faster.
13. Update Your Address Early
Before moving day, remember to update:
Canada Post
Banks
Insurance providers
Driver's license
Health card
Employer
Utility companies
Subscription services
Making a checklist helps ensure nothing gets overlooked.
14. Ask Friends for Help—But Have a Plan
Friends are more likely to help when jobs are clearly assigned.
Have boxes labelled, furniture disassembled, and supplies ready before they arrive.
Don't forget to provide cold drinks and pizza!
15. Choose Storage That's Easy to Access
If you're using storage during your move, convenience matters.
At Stow It All on PEI, our customers appreciate:
Wide open drive-up alleys
Ground-level access—no elevators or long hallways
Clean, well-maintained facilities
Friendly local service
Convenient Charlottetown-area locations
Competitive pricing
Easy online reservations
Whether you need storage for a few weeks or several months, we're here to help make your move a little easier.
Moving Soon?
If you're planning a move anywhere in the Charlottetown area or across Prince Edward Island, we'd love to help.
Our team is happy to recommend the right unit size and answer any questions before you reserve.
A little planning today can make moving day far less stressful—and give you more time to enjoy your new home.