The 4-Week Packing Timeline: When to Pack What

Weeks 4 & 3: Start with What You Won't Miss

Four weeks before your move, gather all your packing supplies and begin with items you rarely use: off-season clothing, books, decorative items, guest bedroom linens, and anything stored in closets or the garage. Label every box with the room it belongs to and a brief description of contents. In Montreal, where many leases turn over on July 1st, starting early is especially important because moving supply stores tend to sell out fast in late June.

During week three, tackle the dining room, home office, and any hobby or craft supplies. Pack wall art, photos, and picture frames. This is also the time to sell, donate, or recycle items you no longer want — Renaissance and Village des Valeurs locations across Montreal accept donations year-round.

Week 2: Pack the Main Living Areas

Two weeks out, pack the living room — electronics, media, board games, and decorative items. Disassemble furniture that needs it and bag all hardware in labelled zip-lock bags taped to the furniture piece. Pack the majority of your kitchen, leaving out only essentials you'll use daily: one pot, one pan, a few plates, utensils, and a coffee maker.

Week 1: The Final Stretch and Essentials Box

In your last week, pack the remaining kitchen items, bathroom supplies, and daily-use clothing. Prepare an essentials box — the last box packed and first one opened — containing toiletries, phone chargers, medications, snacks, a change of clothes, basic tools, and important documents. On moving day in Montreal, keep this box with you in your car, not on the truck.