A move with a baby is less about the boxes and more about rhythm: feeds, naps, sleep and rest for the parents. The calmest moves are those where the adults handle only the baby and the decisions, while others carry and pack. Here is how to arrange that.
Priority one: the sleep space
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies sleep on a firm, flat surface, on their backs, in a crib or bassinet with a fitted sheet and nothing else. Set up the crib or bassinet first in the new home so it is ready before anything else is unpacked, and have it assembled before the baby arrives. Keep the crib's parts and instructions in the baby bag, not on the truck.
Priority two: the baby bag
Pack a bag that travels with you, not with the movers. Include diapers, wipes, spare clothes, feeding supplies, a blanket, any medicine, documents and a few of the baby's favourite things. The bag should hold enough for a full day plus a night in case the truck is late.
Priority three: let others lift
Recovery after birth, tiredness and feeding all limit what a parent can safely lift. Hire help for packing and loading, so the household is moved without you. O'Brien's offers full packing, partial packing and box packing only, and a free in-home estimate comes with 10 free heavy-duty boxes. See full packing and partial packing.
Move-day logistics
Arrange for a friend or family member to care for the baby at the quiet end, and keep the baby away from the loading area. Plan feeds around the schedule and choose a quiet room at both ends. For a fuller timeline, see the moving timeline and moving with kids.
Update the essentials
- Tell the pediatrician your new address and ask for records if you change doctors.
- Update your address with the post office using the Mover's Guide.
- Check that the new home's smoke alarms work and that outlets are safe.
- Confirm the car seat is installed correctly before the first drive.