9 Moving Tips for Boomers and Gen Xers: Stress-Free Moves After 50
- Cathy Borg
- Sep 1
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 29
by Cathy Borg
Moving ranks right up there with divorce on the stress scale—and if you’ve ever stared at a basement full of boxes, you know why. The good news? With a little foresight (and some smart shortcuts), you can take your move from a total migraine to “I can do hard things.” These moving tips for Boomers and Gen Xers are designed to make the whole process smoother.
Why Moving Tips for Boomers and Gen Xers Are Different
When you’re over 50, moving isn’t just about boxes and tape. It’s about decades of belongings, family memories, and the reality that knees (and patience) aren’t what they used to be. That’s why these moving tips for Boomers and Gen Xers focus on reducing stress, saving energy, and making sure you land in your new home feeling lighter, not weighed down.
1. Get help where it matters.
You don’t have to carry the whole burden yourself:
Organizers can help you declutter, donate, and pack without the tears.
Stagers make your house look its best for buyers.
Realtors and lawyers handle the transactions (in Ontario, only lawyers can transfer property titles).
Movers can do everything from hauling boxes to full-service packing.
Think of it this way: you could change your own oil or do your own dental cleaning—but why? Same with moving. Outsource wisely and save your sanity.
2. Don’t pay to move clutter.
The average person takes six months to fully unpack after a move—and some boxes never see daylight again. Why pay movers to cart stuff you don’t even like? That broken blender, the “someday” craft supplies, the stack of VHS tapes—let them go now.
Every item you release now is one less decision, one less box, and one less sigh on moving day.
3. Set up mail forwarding.
Yes, most bills are online. But government notices, insurance, even your dentist still use snail mail. Set up forwarding for at least 12 months.
Pro tip: leave the new owners a few stamped envelopes with your new address—they’ll be more likely to pass things along. Small gesture, big relief.
4. Call utilities early.
Nothing kills moving day joy like no Wi-Fi or lights. Call your providers a month ahead to arrange service transfers. Internet, hydro, gas, water, phone—it all matters.
Picture this: instead of unpacking by flashlight, you’re brewing a cup of tea in your new kitchen, lights on, router humming. That’s a win.
5. Create a moving binder (or folder).
Keep quotes, receipts, and contracts in one place. Whether it’s a binder or a folder on Google Drive, the point is simple: you don’t want to dig through a box labeled “misc. kitchen junk” when your lawyer asks for your closing documents.
Your future self will thank you for this tiny island of order in the chaos.
6. Research and book movers.
Get at least two written estimates from reputable companies (the Canadian Association of Movers has a searchable directory). Referrals from friends—or your organizer—are gold.
Book movers at least six weeks ahead. And if you can, avoid June 30th—it’s basically Moving Olympics in Canada. Winning here means not competing at all.
7. Make an inventory.
List your major items with brand, serial number, and value. It helps movers give accurate estimates, speeds up unpacking, and protects you if you need to file an insurance claim.
Bonus: when you write things down, you realize how much you actually own—and it might spark another round of “do I really need this?”
8. Take photos and videos.
Before unplugging electronics, snap a photo of the cords. Film yourself taking apart furniture. Toss screws in labeled baggies. Take a photo of your utility meter before you leave.
These little visual breadcrumbs make reassembling your life much easier.
9. Pack a survival kit.
Don’t let your essentials disappear into the moving truck. Keep with you:
Medications
Important documents (passports, financial, medical, legal)
Chargers
Toiletries and a change of clothes
Towels, sheets, toilet paper
Snacks (moving-day fuel is non-negotiable)
This is your “first night in the new place” kit. Without it, you’re basically camping indoors—and not the fun kind. With it, you’re proving: “I can do hard things.”
Final word
Even the best-planned move has hiccups. Something will break, someone will get cranky, and yes, you might swear once or twice. But with foresight, smart help, and a few laughs along the way, you’ll come through just fine.
Need an extra set of hands (or a big bat)? That’s what we do. From downsizing to unpacking, we’ve got you covered.
About the Author
Cathy Borg is a partner at In and Out Organizing, where she helps Boomers and Gen Xers downsize, declutter, and move with less stress. Known for her practical, waste-conscious approach—and her ability to bring humour and honesty to even the toughest transitions—Cathy has guided many Torontonians toward simpler, lighter, more organized lives.
Do you need to get your house ready for sale. We can manage all the details. You don't have to lift a finger. Find out more. Call Brad Borg, at In and Out Organizing,(416) 859-0518 or book a consultation online. Let’s take the weight off your shoulders.
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