Moving in Special Situations: Pets, Plants, Pregnancy & Couples

Moving is challenging enough on its own. But when you add special circumstances—pets who can't understand what's happening, delicate plants, physical limitations from pregnancy, or the emotional dynamics of moving as a couple—the complexity multiplies. This guide addresses each of these situations with practical advice.

Moving with Pets

Moving is especially stressful for pets because they cannot understand what is happening. Their routine is disrupted, their familiar environment is being dismantled, and they may not be used to traveling.

6 Essential Tips for Moving with Pets

1. Get Them Used to Carriers

Well before moving day, acclimate your pet to their carrier. Leave it open in your home with treats inside. Take short car rides. This is especially important for cats and for long-distance moves.

2. Create a Pet Essentials Kit

Pack a dedicated bag with:

• Food and treats

• Familiar blankets and bedding

• Favorite toys

• Water and bowls

• Veterinary records

• Any medications

3. Keep Them Away from the Chaos

On moving day, isolate your pet in a quiet room away from the action. Open doors, heavy items, and strangers going in and out create hazards and stress. Consider having them stay with a friend or at daycare.

4. Inspect Before Releasing

At your new home, do a thorough walkthrough before letting your pet explore. Check for:

• Escape routes (open windows, gaps in fencing)

• Hiding spots they might get stuck in

• Anything dangerous left by previous owners

5. Update Their Information

After the move, update:

• Pet licenses

• Microchip registration

• Find a new veterinarian

6. Consult Your Vet

Talk to your vet before the move, especially for senior pets or those with anxiety. If your pet shows concerning behaviors after the move (not eating, hiding excessively, aggression), seek professional help.

Special Considerations for Exotic Pets

Small critters, birds, reptiles, and fish require specialized research. Consult a vet who specializes in your type of pet for specific transport recommendations.

Moving with Plants

Many people don't realize that moving plants requires special consideration—and that regulations may apply.

Can Movers Move Plants?

Many professional moving companies will move plants, but policies vary. Plants must fit within the truck's designated space, and you should discuss any concerns with your movers in advance.

4 Key Considerations

1. Provincial Regulations

When moving between provinces, check for restrictions. Some provinces require inspection certificates for plants. Newfoundland, for example, has quarantine pest regulations that may affect what you can bring.

2. Temperature Control

Plants cannot survive below 30°F or above 100°F for extended periods. For long-distance moves, consider:

• The time of year

• How long plants will be in the truck

• Whether you should transport delicate plants in your own climate-controlled vehicle

3. Keeping Plants Moist

Most plants can survive up to 10 days without water. Calculate your travel time and water accordingly before the move. Don't overwater—soggy soil can damage roots.

4. Transfer to Plastic Pots

Ceramic and clay pots can break during transport. Repot plants into plastic containers 2-3 weeks before the move to allow them to adjust.

Additional Plant Tips

• Inspect plants for pests and diseases before moving (don't bring problems to your new home)

• Label plants with care instructions

• Consider giving some plants to friends if moving them is too complicated

Moving While Pregnant

Pregnancy is a prime situation where professional moving help is essential, not optional.

Why You Shouldn't Lift Heavy Items

Medical experts agree: heavy lifting during pregnancy poses real risks. Loosened ligaments and a shifted center of gravity make you more vulnerable to injury. Risks include:

• Back injuries and strain

• Premature labor

• Low birth weight

• Other complications

Benefits of Hiring Professional Movers

When you're expecting, professional movers provide:

• Physical support when you cannot lift heavy items

• Reduced back pain and physical strain

• Packing support so you don't have to bend and lift

• Efficient completion (moves can be done in hours, not days)

• Above-and-beyond service (bringing tools, removing wall items, etc.)

Real Experience

One customer, Jade, moved at 6 months pregnant. She noted that having movers handle everything allowed her to focus on directing where items went rather than risking her health with heavy lifting. The experience converted her from a DIY mover to an advocate for professional services.

Moving as a Couple

Moving in together is a major life transition that can strain even strong relationships. Conflict is normal—preparation helps smooth the process.

6 Steps to Move Together Without Going Crazy

1. Make a Pre-Move Checklist Together

• Inventory both of your belongings

• Decide together what to keep, toss, or donate

• Measure furniture and determine what fits

• If needed, bring in a friend as an impartial mediator for tough decisions

2. Address Your Anxieties

Hidden fears often translate into conflict. Before you're stressed and exhausted:

• Each person writes down their worries individually

• Share your lists in a calm setting

• Acknowledge each other's concerns without judgment

3. Identify Strengths and Assign Roles

Determine who is:

• More organized

• More patient

• More resourceful

• Better at scheduling

• Better at decluttering

Divide responsibilities based on these strengths rather than arbitrary splits.

4. Turn Your List into Action

Schedule tasks into specific days. Prioritize the essentials and cut anything that's not necessary. A moving timeline with assigned responsibilities keeps both partners accountable.

5. Don't Stop Living Normally

During the chaos, don't:

• Skip meals

• Order takeout every single day

• Stay up until 4am packing

• Work without breaks

Self-care prevents burnout and reduces conflict.

6. Give the Hard Stuff to the Pros

Hire professional movers for:

• Heavy lifting

• Truck logistics

• Packing (if budget allows)

• Long-distance coordination

This removes the most stressful and physical aspects from your relationship dynamic.

The Common Thread

Whether you're moving with pets, plants, a pregnancy, or a partner, the common themes are:

• Plan ahead - Special circumstances require extra preparation

• Communicate clearly - With your vet, your partner, your movers

• Reduce stress - Often by hiring professional help

• Be patient - Transitions take time for everyone involved

Moving is temporary. Your pets will adjust, your plants will thrive, your pregnancy will progress safely, and your relationship will emerge stronger. With the right preparation and support, even complex moves can go smoothly.