There are certain circumstances that make moving even more difficult and stressful than it already is. Things like moving with pets, delicate plants or any kind of physical limitation can turn a standard relocation into a nightmare. In this guide, we'll address some of these concerns.
Moving with Pets
Moving is stressful not just for humans but for pets as well. It's a major change to the routine that the furry little buddies don't know how to process.
6 Tips to Make the Move Easier for Pets
1. Get Them Used to Carriers
Acclimate your pet to their carrier before move day. Put treats inside the carrier to make it more welcoming and leave the door open a few days before the move. Bring your pet on short car rides to get your pets used to travel.
2. Create a Pet Essentials Kit
Having a go bag is a great idea. It should be packed with essentials such as any medications your pet might need, snacks and treats, their favourite toys, water and bowls, blankets, and vet records.
3. Keep Them Separated from from the Chaos
Make sure your pet stays in a quiet room away from the action on moving day. Open doors, heavy items, and strangers going in and out create hazards and stress. Consider having them stay at a kennel.
4. Inspect Before Releasing
You'll want to check your new home before your pet arrives to make sure there are no potential escape routes, dangerous hiding spots that can trap them, or anything dangerous or hazardous left by the previous occupant.
5. Update Their Information
Once you're settled, make sure to get a new pet license and looking into microchip registration in your area. You should also locate the closest vet.
6. Consult Your Vet
Before moving, ask your vet if they have any recommendations regarding the move. Ask how to best manage your pet's stress. Tell the vet about any recent behaviour changes. They know best!
Special Considerations for Special Pets
Standard dogs and cats are one thing but if you've got an exotic animal, there are likely special steps to be taken ahead of and during the move. Check with a vet who understands your animal and go from there.
Moving with Plants
It's easy to forget about your plants during a move because for the longest time they just sit there. You only realize how delicate they can be when it's time to pick them up and put them on a truck. Because they are tricky to move and often don't survive cold conditions, many moving companies won't move plants. Check in advance.
Can Movers Move Plants? 4 Key Considerations
1. Provincial Regulations
Depending on what province you're heading to, rules can vary about bringing in plants so it's always important to check for restrictions. Some require certificates of inspection.
2. Temperature Control
Plants survive in the temperature range of 30°F to 100°F. Bear that in mind for long distance moves where plants would be subjected to extreme conditions for long periods of time. Some moving companies have temperature trucks. Ask in advance.
3. Keeping Plants Moist
Most plants can survive a day or two without being watered but you should still do some math and figure how long your plants will be dry during the move. You don't want to water the plant too much before the move either as that can be damaging as well.
4. Transfer to Plastic Pots
Consider transferring your plants to plastic pots to avoid damage to your ceramic pot during the move. Do this a couple of weeks before the move.
More Plant Tips
Check for any disease on your current plants. It's best to leave that behind. Consider labeling your plants with care instructions as well. And if moving plants is too difficult, maybe just give them to friends.
What to Expect from a Move when You're Expecting
No heavy lifting!
It's widely accepted in the medical community that pregnant women should not be doing any heavy lifting as it poses risk to the mother and unborn child. Back injuries, premature labour, and low birth weight are all potential risks among others.
Benefits of Hiring Professional Movers
When you're expecting, hiring professional movers can provide physical support for heavy items, save your back, and cut down on packing stress when optional packing services are chosen.
Real Experience
We recently helped a mom named Jade who was six months pregnant. She said that having the movers take care of the heavy lifting and packing let her concentrate on where items should go and other organizational tasks. After that, she said she would only ever move using professional services.
Couples' Move
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.
