As the old saying goes, “the devil is in the details.” And when it comes to moving into a new house, that couldn’t be more true. There are so many things to do before you can actually move your belongings in and call the place home.
Of course, some of these tasks will depend on your specific situation. If you’re buying a new home, for example, you’ll need to do things like hiring a moving company and changing your address. But even if you’re just renting, there are still plenty of things to take care of.
Here are some essential tips to help make your move go as smoothly as possible:
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Before you even start packing, it’s a good idea to walk through your new house and get a feel for it. This will help you identify any potential problems or areas that need improvement.
You’ll also want to note things like the fuse box’s location and the nearest fire exit. If you’re renting, ask your landlord about these things and any other important details.
When you walk through the house, ensure that each room is clean and in the same condition as when you first saw it. This includes any damage that the previous tenants may have caused.
If you have children or pets, you’ll need to make arrangements for them before moving.
You’ll need to find someone who can take care of them while you are moving and make sure they’re taking good care of your pet. You may also want to consider enrolling them in a pet boarding service.
For kids, you’ll need to figure out who will take care of them during the move. You may also want to pack some of their favorite toys and clothes to make the transition a little easier.
See Also: Long Distance Moving with Pets – Planning Guide
Once you’ve moved in, the last thing you want to do is spend hours unboxing your belongings. That’s why it’s a good idea to have a plan for unpacking.
If you have friends or family members who can help, ask them to come over a few days after you move in. That way, you can get a lot of the heavy lifting out of the way right away.
If you’re flying solo, try to set aside a few hours each day to unpack. That way, you won’t be overwhelmed, and you’ll still have time to relax and enjoy your new home.
One of the first things you’ll want to do when you move into a new house is set up your utilities. This includes things like water, electricity, and cable/internet.
Some of this can be done before you even move in, while other tasks may have to wait until after you’ve settled in. Be sure to contact your utility providers and ask them what you need to do in order to set up service.
When setting up your utilities, be sure to ask about any promotional rates that may be available. You may be able to save yourself a few bucks by switching providers or signing up for a package deal.
One of the most daunting tasks of moving is figuring out where everything is going to go.
That’s why it’s a good idea to start planning out your new space before you even move in. This will help you figure out what furniture and appliances you need, and it will also give you an idea of how much storage space you’ll need.
If you’re renting, be sure to ask your landlord if they have any restrictions on what you can and can’t bring in. And if you’re buying, be sure to take measurements of the new space, so you don’t end up with a piece of furniture that’s too big or too small.
See Also: How to Move Out of Parent’s House
When you’re packing up your belongings, it’s a good idea to label everything. This will make unpacking a lot easier, and it will also help you keep track of your things.
You can use labels like “bedroom,” “kitchen,” or “bathroom.” Or, if you’re packing boxes of fragile items, you can use labels like “fragile” and “handle with care.”
When you’re moving, it’s a good idea to pack an essentials box. This will include things like your toothbrush, shampoo, and clothes. You’ll have something to fall back on if you don’t have time to unpack everything right away.
If you’re renting, be sure to ask your landlord if they have any restrictions on what you can and can’t bring in. And if you’re buying, be sure to take measurements of the new space, so you don’t end up with a piece of furniture that’s too big or too small.
See Also: What You Need to Pack in an Essentials Box When Moving
Before you move in, it’s a good idea to take a tour of the property and make a note of any repairs or upkeep that needs to be done.
This may include things like fixing a leaky roof or repainting the house’s exterior.
If you cannot do the repairs yourself, be sure to contact a contractor and get a quote for the work. That way, you won’t be surprised by any unexpected costs down the road.
When you’re moving, it’s a good idea to take inventory of your belongings. This will help you keep track of everything, and it will also make it easier to file a claim if anything gets damaged during the move.
You can use a tool like Excel or Google Sheets to keep track of your belongings. Or, you can create a simple list with all the information (e.g., item name, description, value, etc.).
When taking inventory, be sure to include things like furniture, appliances, and electronics. And if you have any valuable items, be sure to make a note of them.
One of the best ways to reduce the stress of moving is to get rid of unwanted items.
You can do this by holding a garage sale, donating items to a charity, or selling them online.
By getting rid of these items, you’ll make the move a lot easier and free up some space in your new home.
When you’re moving, it can be a long and tiring process. That’s why it’s a good idea to pack a snack. This will help keep you energized, and it will also help keep your morale up.
You can pack a snack like a granola bar or an energy drink. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, you can pack a sandwich or some fruit.
Before you move in, it’s a good idea to take some time to secure the new house.
This may include installing a security system or putting up a fence around the property.
If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, you can always hire a contractor to do it for you.
When securing the house, it’s important to ensure that all the entrances and exits are locked. And if you have any pets, be sure to put up a fence or a gate so they can’t wander off the property.
One of the best ways to get ready for move-in day is to deep clean your new house.
This may include things like scrubbing the floors, wiping down the walls, and cleaning the windows.
Doing this will reduce the amount of work you have to do on move-in day. And you’ll also be able to start your new life in a clean and clutter-free space.
One of the most important things to do when you’re moving is to update your address.
This will ensure that all your mail is sent to the right place.
You can update your address by going to your local post office or online.
Be sure to update your address with all of your important contacts, like your bank, insurance company, and employer.
You can update your address with USPS.com for free.
Before you move in, it’s a good idea to take some time to explore the neighborhood.
This will help you get a feel for the area, and it will also help you meet your neighbors.
You can explore the neighborhood by walking or biking around. Or, you can drive through the area and take note of the businesses and schools in the area.
If you have any questions about the neighborhood, be sure to ask your neighbors. They’ll be able to give you some insights into what it’s like to live in the area.
Before the movers arrive, it’s a good idea to confirm all the details with them.
This includes things like the date and time of the move, the address of the new house, and the type of truck that will be used.
It’s also a good idea to ask about any additional fees that may apply.
By confirming all the details, you’ll ensure that there are no surprises on move-in day.
Conclusion
The process of moving can be stressful, but with the right preparation and a few simple tips, it doesn’t have to be. We’ve outlined some things you should do before moving into a new house in this blog post. From securing the new house to deep cleaning, these steps will help ensure that your transition is smooth and seamless. And since most people move during the summer, we’ve also included a few tips for staying cool and comfortable during the move. So whether you’re moving across town or across the country, be sure to follow these tips to make your move go as smoothly as possible.
See Also: How to Move a Shed to a New House
What should I do if I’m moving with children?
If you’re moving with children, be sure to pack a few things that will keep them entertained and comfortable. This may include items like books, puzzles, and games. You may also want to pack some snacks and drinks and a few changes of clothes. And if you have any pets, be sure to pack a few things for them as well.
How can I stay cool during the move?
If you’re moving during the summer, staying cool and comfortable is important. You can do this by drinking plenty of water, wearing lightweight clothing, and taking frequent breaks. You may also want to pack a few things like a fan or ice packs to help keep you cool. And if you’re moving long-distance, be sure to pack a few things to make the trip more comfortable, like a blanket and some snacks.
Can I hire a contractor to help me move?
Yes, you can hire a contractor to help you move. This may include things like packing and unpacking your belongings, loading and unloading the truck and driving the truck. Hiring a contractor can be a great way to make the move less stressful. Just be sure to shop around and compare prices before hiring someone.
What should I do if I’m moving long-distance?
If you’re moving long-distance, there are a few things you’ll want to do to make the trip more comfortable. This includes packing a few things like snacks and drinks, as well as a blanket. You may also want to pack a pillow. You may also want to pack a few items to keep you entertained, like books, magazines, or a laptop. And if you’re moving in the summer, be sure to pack sunscreen and a hat.
What should I do if I’m moving into a new house?
If you’re moving into a new house, there are a few things you’ll want to do to prepare. This includes cleaning the house from top to bottom, stocking up on supplies like toilet paper and paper towels, and planting flowers or trees in the yard. You may also want to get to know your neighbors and check out the local businesses and schools. By taking these steps, you’ll ensure a smooth transition into your new home.
Alex Sherr is the founder of My Long Distance Movers, a blog that provides moving information and resources for people who are relocating. He has more than two decades of experience in the moving and relocation industry, and he is passionate about helping people relocate smoothly and efficiently. When he's not writing or blogging, Alex enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children.
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