A Practical Guide

Moving across the country is one of the biggest decisions a family makes. The steps below give you a clear, practical sequence — from early planning all the way to getting properly settled in Alberta.

Research and Make the Decision

Before anything else, get clear on why you're moving and what you're looking for. Alberta is a big province — life in Calgary looks very different from Edmonton, Red Deer, or a smaller community like Cochrane. Take time to research what actually fits your family.

Things to think through at this stage:

Cost of living comparison between your current city and your Alberta destination
Job market in your field — especially if you don't have employment lined up yet
School quality and enrollment processes in your target community
Neighbourhood fit — commute times, access to outdoor recreation, community feel
Whether you plan to rent first or buy upon arrival

Start Your Mortgage Conversation Early

If you're planning to buy in Alberta, getting your pre-approval started before you leave gives you a realistic picture of what you can afford — and removes one major variable during an already busy time.

Lenders want to see stable employment. If you're changing jobs as part of the move, timing matters — talk to a broker before you give notice.
If you're self-employed, start gathering your last two years of NOAs and T1 Generals early.
Alberta has no land transfer tax, which changes how closing costs work compared to Ontario.
If you're selling an Ontario home, the timing of that sale and your Alberta purchase needs careful coordination.

The earlier you start this conversation, the more options you have. Most decisions get harder — not easier — the closer you get to a move date.

Plan the Physical Move

There are three common approaches, each with real tradeoffs:

Full-Service Moving Company (e.g., Allied, North American Van Lines)

Most expensive, but they handle packing, transport, and unloading. Best for families with a lot of furniture or limited time. Book early — availability fills fast.

Container Shipping (e.g., BigSteelBox, PODS)

Mid-range cost. You load at your pace, they transport it, you unload on arrival. Flexible and less stressful than driving a large truck yourself.

Truck Rental (e.g., U-Haul)

Least expensive but most demanding. Fuel costs on a cross-country drive add up fast, and driving a large truck through the mountains takes preparation.

Other logistics to arrange ahead of time:

Forward mail and update your address with CRA, banks, and subscriptions
Cancel or transfer province-specific services (Ontario health card, etc.)
Set up utilities at your Alberta address before you arrive if possible
If renting, confirm pet policies in advance if applicable

Once you're in Alberta, several registrations need to happen within specific timeframes. Don't leave these until after you're fully unpacked.

Driver's licence: You have 90 days from establishing Alberta residency. Done at a private registry agent office — Alberta has no government-run licensing centres.

Vehicle registration: Also within 90 days. You'll need your current registration, proof of Alberta insurance, and a valid Alberta address.

Alberta Health Care (AHCIP): Apply immediately upon arrival. There is typically a three-month waiting period — apply right away and arrange interim private coverage if needed.

School enrollment: Contact your local school board as early as possible. French immersion spots fill quickly.

CRA address update: Affects your CCB, GST credit, and RRSP documentation. Update through My Account on the CRA website.

Find Employment (If Not Already Confirmed)

Alberta's job market is strong across energy, construction, healthcare, technology, and trades. If you're arriving without employment confirmed, the province has solid resources to support your search.

Alberta Job Bank — alberta.ca/jobs
LinkedIn local searches filtered by Calgary or Edmonton
Industry-specific professional associations (particularly useful for trades, healthcare, and engineering)
Local chambers of commerce — Cochrane, Calgary, and Edmonton all have active business communities

If a home purchase is in your near-term plan, your employment status at the time of your mortgage application matters significantly. Changing jobs mid-process can affect your qualification — talk to a broker first.

Get Connected in Your Community

This part takes the most time — and it's worth being intentional about it. Alberta communities tend to be welcoming, but you have to show up.

Look into local sports leagues, community associations, and volunteer organizations
If you have kids, school activities are one of the fastest ways to meet other families
Local farmers markets, outdoor recreation programs, and community events are well-attended and a natural entry point
Cochrane specifically has one of the strongest small-town community cultures in the province — it's a great place to land

A Step by Step Moving Guide

From first question to final approval — we've got you