Moving into a new home is exciting but also a bit scary. It’s a big step with lots of tasks and tips to remember. To make this big change easier, we’ve put together a detailed checklist. It includes everything from making a list of your stuff to changing your address. We want to make your move smooth and worry-free.
About 80% of people move not far from their old place, often choosing full-service movers. But costs can be very different based on what service you pick. DIY truck rentals might cost $20 to $100 daily, plus you pay for miles. If you choose movers without a truck, it could cost $60 to $120 every hour, not including the truck.
Getting ready to move is more than just filling boxes. A complete checklist before the move can really help lower stress. It ensures you don’t forget anything important. Let’s look closely at what you should know before and after you move into your new place.
Preparing for the Move
When we talk about moving preparations, starting early makes everything go smoothly. It’s best to start clearing out and packing up at least eight weeks before you move. Planning this far ahead gives us plenty of time to get organized and ready for the big day.
Deciding whether to use professional movers or a hybrid moving package is a big part of planning a house move. Hiring professionals for a long move can be expensive. But hybrid packages offer different services based on what we can afford, from doing it ourselves to getting full help.
Having a garage sale is a smart move to cut down on what we need to take and to make some money. It’s a clever way in how to prepare for a move. This helps us get rid of stuff we don’t need and make moving easier.
| Key Steps | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Start Decluttering Early | Reduces Stress and Organizes Items Efficiently |
| Professional Movers vs. Hybrid Packages | Flexibility and Budget Management |
| Garage Sale | Decreases Volume and Increases Funds |
We also need to think about the cost of moving supplies like tape, bubble wrap, and boxes. These costs can quickly add up, and many people don’t plan for them, which can lead to unexpected money worries.
At this time, it’s key to manage the details of the move, like marking boxes and arranging for any needed repairs. Marking boxes helps with unpacking. Getting repairs done early means fewer delays.
About 63% of people find moving stressful. This shows how crucial it is to plan well and start early. By doing so, we can cut down on stress, making the move smoother and more successful.
Things to Do When Moving Into a New Home
Moving into a new home is exciting but comes with many tasks and stress. Around 65% of people feel moving is super stressful. A moving into a new home checklist helps for a smoother transition.
First off, you need to tell your service providers you’re moving. Over half forget to tell at least one important service. Your checklist for new home should include utility companies, banks, and subscription services.
Moving costs can change a lot depending on many things. Local moves can cost between $800 and $2,200. This depends on how big your move is and what services you need. It’s smart to get three quotes from moving companies to possibly save around 20%.
Setting up utilities early is key. Around 70% run into delays or problems with utilities. Try to arrange them a month ahead. Also, changing broadband services needs two weeks to a month’s notice. Companies like BT might charge for installing a new line.
Listing your belongings can help control costs and avoids moving stuff you don’t need. Those who declutter before moving feel less stressed. It’s also smart to pack essential items, like medicine and clothes, separately. This step is recommended by 80% of movers.
Finally, think about the costs of moving. Packing materials make up about 30% of the moving budget. Sites like Freecycle and Gumtree are good for finding cheap packing materials. Packing by yourself can save money, but it needs careful planning and effort.
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Notify Service Providers | Inform utilities, banks, and subscriptions of address change |
| Get Moving Estimates | Obtain at least three quotes to save on costs |
| Pre-schedule Utilities | Arrange for utility hookups at least a month in advance |
| Declutter | Sort and reduce items to minimize moving efforts and costs |
| Pack Essentials Separately | Keep necessary items like medications and clothes handy |
| Use Cost-effective Supplies | Utilize free or low-cost packing resources |
Taking Inventory and Packing
Moving can be less stressful with the right approach. Over 20% of people agree that taking inventory makes moving easier. An inventory list helps you figure out what to pack first.
- Begin Early: About 25% wait until the last week to pack. Start with things you don’t use every day, like seasonal clothing and pictures.
- Declutter: Check what you really need before you pack. You’ll probably find things you can throw away.
- Label Everything: 40% don’t label boxes by room, making unpacking hard. A color-coded system helps, and 45% say it makes unpacking easier.
A checklist for moving makes sure you don’t forget anything. 70% say disorganization adds to moving stress. A checklist can solve that.
When packing, use what you have. Towels can protect fragile items. Many feel packing is overwhelming. Break it down into small jobs. 80% of the stress comes from packing and unpacking. Packing smart reduces stress.
- Secure Packaging: Original boxes are best for electronics. 50% of people prefer this.
- Protective Measures: Most movers, 65%, use packing tape for sealing boxes.
- Special Strategies: Pack fragile things like china carefully and early to avoid damage.
Good packing and a detailed checklist make moving easier. It doesn’t have to stress you out. With planning and organization, moving to your new home can be smooth.
Cleaning Your New Home
Moving into a new home calls for a good clean. This gives you a fresh start. About 61% of people who move in think cleaning is key. Having a checklist for cleaning when you move in is very helpful.
Starting with the bathrooms is our top cleaning tip. 72% of cleaning experts agree with us. Bathrooms are used a lot and can get mold and bacteria. A mix of one part chlorine bleach to three parts warm water works well, say 85% of experts.
It’s easy to miss dust and dirt in new places. 50% of new homeowners say this. Behind appliances is a common spot that 50% forget to check. This can lead to dirt and pests.
The kitchen needs a lot of cleaning too. 67% of people who’ve moved say this. Using special cleaners, liked by 58% of people, can help get rid of smells and sticky spots. Also, cleaning stove and oven parts is needed, as found by 37%.
Cleaning the oven and stove is also important. 40% of people say they forget about this. Using a self-cleaning oven can save up to 1.5 hours.
Bedrooms and living rooms need cleaning of spots that are touched a lot. Most cleaning should focus on kitchens and bathrooms, say industry experts. And 65% of people prefer using non-toxic or homemade cleaners because they worry about health.
| Percentage | Task |
|---|---|
| 72% | Start with bathrooms |
| 67% | Clean kitchens comprehensively |
| 40% | Clean oven interiors |
| 50% | Check behind appliances |
| 85% | Use bleach solutions for mold |
| 37% | Scrub stove and oven grills |
About 25% of homes might need more deep cleaning after the first round. This happens because of how the last people left things. A thorough checklist for moving in helps you see what areas you missed. It also helps find things that need fixing, as 34% of homeowners discover.
Staying organized and cleaning well makes your new home spotless. It also makes it inviting. This way, it’s ready for you to make it your own.
Updating Your Address and Forwarding Mail
Moving into a new home involves numerous tasks. One of the most important is updating your address and ensuring your mail follows you. This key step can help you avoid any mail-related problems.
Let’s look at the crucial steps and USPS services designed to make this transition easy.
Starting with the USPS address change, it’s simple. You can do it online for a small fee of $1.10 for identity verification. This protects your personal information from fraud.
| Service | Cost | Duration | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| USPS Standard Mail Forwarding | Free | 12 months | Includes First-Class Mail®, Priority Mail®, and periodicals |
| USPS Marketing Mail® | Not eligible | N/A | Cannot be forwarded |
| Premium Forwarding Service Residential® | $21.90 setup + $23.90/week | Customizable | Receives mail in a weekly Priority Mail shipment |
| Media Mail® | Shipping fee applies | Up to 12 months | Requires payment for forwarding |
After submitting your request, USPS forwarding usually starts within three business days. But, it’s a good idea to give it 7 to 14 days to fully kick in. Mail like First-Class and periodicals are forwarded for free. Just remember, USPS Marketing Mail® doesn’t get forwarded. If you choose the Premium Service, there are initial and weekly fees for a unique mail delivery experience.
It’s critical to let key institutions know you’ve moved too. This includes the IRS, Social Security, and your local DMV. Many let you update your address online. Not telling them can lead to missed important notices and potential problems.
Knowing how to change your address and forward mail with USPS will make your move smoother. It ensures your important mail stays safe and reaches you.
Unpacking Essentials First
Many find unpacking after moving more stressful than having a baby or getting a divorce. To make this easier, focus on what to unpack first. This makes your new place cozy quickly.
- Overnight Box: Pack a box with must-haves like toiletries, clothes for the next day, essential gadgets (and their chargers), and some kitchen basics (like a kettle and snacks). This box makes the first night easier before you tackle the rest.
- Bathroom Essentials: Start with the bathroom. Most agree that setting it up fast makes your space feel more like home. Don’t forget shower curtains, toiletries, and towels, so you’re ready to refresh after moving day.
- Bedroom Setup: A good night’s sleep is vital. With 35% of folks getting their bedding out on day one, keep your linens organized. Store sheets, duvet covers, and pillowcases in one pillowcase for quick access.
- Kitchen Necessities: The kitchen often takes the most time, with half finding it a big job. Prioritize everyday items like plates, pots, and utensils. This helps you start cooking without looking for every little thing.
- Children’s Rooms: Getting kids to set up their own rooms helps them feel involved. It turns a big task into a fun activity for them. About 40% of families find this makes moving easier for everyone.
- Label and Organize: Mark boxes by room to unpack more effectively. Sixty percent recommend this tip to ensure items go where they belong, making everything less overwhelming.
Unpacking can seem tough, but these tips can help. Knowing what to tackle first turns your new place into a cozy home faster and with less stress.
Post-Move Utilities and Safety
After you move, making sure your new home works well and is safe is key. This means setting up utilities and following a detailed safety checklist. First, reach out to utility companies to switch services from your old place. It’s best to do this 1 to 2 weeks before you move in. This prevents any problems with your utilities. Some companies might charge fees between $25 to $100 to switch, but this is usually cheaper than starting new accounts.
As new homeowners, it’s important not to ignore safety. Look for things like loose railings, bad electrical wiring, or leaks right away. Doing this is crucial to reduce risks and keep your home safe. Over 60% of homeowners report feeling stressed from moving. Having an organized checklist with safety tips for after the move can help.
Deep cleaning and getting your utilities set up quickly is part of your safety list after moving. Hiring professionals to clean your place well is a good idea. They usually charge between $30 and $50 per hour. Most homeowners, about 85%, choose to hire professionals. This ensures their new home is perfectly clean from the start.
Think about making your home safe for kids and pets by putting up gates and covering outlets. These steps are crucial for a safe home. It’s also important to update your address with the post office and utility companies to avoid missing bills or service issues. Up to 35% of people moving forget this step. Make sure it’s a top priority for you.
Getting your utilities set up includes more than just water and electricity. Many people like to get TV, internet, and phone services all together. This makes things simpler and can save money. About 70% of people moving choose these bundles.
| Tasks | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Contact utility providers | 1-2 weeks before moving in |
| Check for safety hazards | Immediately after moving in |
| Deep clean the new home | Upon moving in |
| Update your address | As soon as possible |
| Install childproofing and pet-proofing measures | Upon moving in |
Changing Locks and Enhancing Security
Moving into a new place means you should think about security first. About 30% of new homeowners overlook changing their locks in the first month. This mistake makes their homes easy to break into. Locksmiths, almost all of them, agree that changing locks right away is key to a safe home. And since about 70% of break-ins happen through the front door, getting strong locks is super important.
There are many ways to make your home safer. For example, getting a new security system can cut the risk of burglary by 300%. Adding high-security deadbolts can also help, lowering burglary chances by 70%. If money is tight, 60% of security pros think re-keying your locks is a cheaper way to stay safe. Smart locks are a cool, modern option that cut down the risk of someone unwanted getting in by 50%.
DIY projects are a popular choice for about 40% of people changing locks, with online guides helping them. This do-it-yourself spirit means 15-20% of homes with old locks get the updates they need. Taking care of your locks by cleaning and oiling them can make them last 50% longer. This shows why it’s good to keep up with lock maintenance after you move.
The following table summarizes the security methods and their effectiveness:
| Security Method | Effectiveness |
|---|---|
| Changing Locks Immediately | Recommended by 90% of Locksmiths |
| High-Security Deadbolts | Deters Burglaries by 70% |
| Re-keying Existing Locks | Suggested by 60% of Security Experts |
| Smart Locks | Reduces Unauthorized Entry by 50% |
| Installing a New Security System | May Reduce Burglary Chance by 300% |
To wrap up, following these tips on home security can greatly increase your new home’s safety. Whether you change the locks, get a new alarm, or re-key, you’ll make your space safer. This helps you feel secure as you start to make your new house a home.
Organizing and Decorating Your New Home
Moving into a new home is a great chance to start over with organization tips. Opendoor’s data shows that 49% feel their space has shrunk since the pandemic. A smart move is to go for built-in storage, like beds with spaces to keep things. This can help make bedrooms feel bigger—a wish for 23% of people for their homes.
Decorating your new home is about mixing beauty with usefulness. Decorative baskets in bathrooms and entryways can keep things neat and look good. In the kitchen, showing off your favorite appliances adds color and style. And organizing pantries with risers, bins, and baskets makes the most of the storage you have.
Here are some efficient ways to organize your home:
- Use a Lazy Susan in bathroom cabinets for better storage and ease of use.
- Put pegboards in garages for tools and gear, making more space.
- Have specific places for things in entryways to cut down on mess.
- Sort laundry into baskets for darks and lights to make washing faster.
A thorough plan for organizing and decorating can ease the stress of clutter. It also makes better use of space. Below is a quick guide to creative storage:
| Area | Storage Solution |
|---|---|
| Bedroom | Under-bed storage, beds with storage space |
| Bathroom | Lazy Susan, decorative baskets |
| Kitchen | Countertop appliances, pantry organizers |
| Garage | Pegboards |
| Laundry Room | Separate baskets for darks and lights |
These organization tips can make your new home work better and look nicer. A tidy home not only looks welcoming but also makes living there better. Plan your home’s organization before moving. Continue using these ideas to ensure a tidy, pleasant new environment.
Handling New Home Maintenance and Repairs
Starting home maintenance might seem hard, but a clear checklist can make things easier. Homeowners usually spend around $1,200 each year on upkeep and fixes. It’s vital to check and change your air filters every 30-60 days. This quick job, taking about five minutes, keeps your heating and cooling system working well. A well-kept air system can also lower your energy bill by 15-20%, saving you money over time.
Fire safety is key in any home. Studies from the U.S. Fire Administration show that having working smoke alarms cuts the risk of dying in a fire by half. It’s important to replace smoke detectors every ten years and clean out dryer vents once a year, which takes an hour. Also, 80% of fire incidents in homes happen because people don’t clean out their dryer’s lint. So, adding these steps to your list is very important.
Simple steps can prevent big repairs in your new home. For instance, cleaning your fridge’s coils helps it last up to 13 years. If you don’t clean the lint screen in your electric dryer, it might use 30% more power, costing about $85 a year in electricity. Also, putting vapor barriers in crawl spaces cuts humidity by half, stopping mold and mildew. Outside, cleaning gutters and clearing the yard in autumn is crucial. By spending 1-3 hours on these tasks regularly, you can keep repair costs low in the long run.