Last Updated on: 5th February 2022, 03:01 am
Moving into a new house
Are you ready to move into your new house?
In an ideal world, your move is flawless. Your utilities are ready on the day of arrival, and your items arrive on time undamaged. You and your family can finally start the next chapter in your life. However, we all know perfect moves are far from many. Here are some moving tips from our moving professionals to make sure your relocation is as effortless as it can be!
Moving to the midwest? Click Here!
The “Before You Move” checklist
Preparation is vital to make sure your move goes smoothly.
Arrange your new life before you get to your new home.
- Is your phone and internet connection running? Don’t miss out on important emails and phone calls. Just because you relocated to a new home doesn’t mean life stops.
- Did you register your house for new insurance? Unfortunately, you cannot transfer your old policy. Speak to your home insurance company and see what you need for your new house.
- Register your utilities before you arrive. Do you know your arrival date? Before moving into your new home, make sure all your utilities are running. Moving into a house without heat during the winter is frustrating. We suggest transferring or registering your utilities at least a week before you move in.
- Do you need to register for any medical services? Consider finding a vet for your pets and a new primary doctor before you move to your home.
- Hire cleaning professionals to clean up any messes left by the former owner. Depending on the agreement, the former owner can be responsible for those services. If anything, be ready to clean when you arrive.
- Give yourself extra time to allow for any last-minute changes to your plan.
- Make sure to be on time and prepare your items, so they are ready to move. Make a home inventory list of all your important things and record their location for easy access.
- We recommend packing a moving kit that is easily accessible when you’re traveling to your new house.
- Bonus tip: Have clean pillows, sheets and blankets ready for the first night!
The “Arrival Day” checklist
Organizing a new home on arrival day is exhausting. Let’s start with some easy tasks to make unpacking easier.
- If you hired professionals, speak to your movers and get on the same page. You might want special attention to specific items or ask questions that they can answer.
- Examine all unloaded items and check items off your home inventory list.
- Organize and move all boxes to their respective rooms. Take note of any missing or damaged objects.
- Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to see if they are working.
- Access your appliances to see if they are functioning as described by the former owner.
- Locate all the control panels in your house, including all circuit breakers and valves, for easy accessibility.
- Access all openings. Make sure your keys work. Open every door and window to see if you need to make any repairs.
- Designate trash disposal areas for easy convenience.
- Before you start unpacking, we suggest googling “best food in town.” Get something to eat and enjoy your new environment before you get back to work!
Unpacking is overwhelming. Don’t burn yourself out trying to do everything at once!
The “Unpacking” checklist, The first day
Unpacking can be a lot to handle, depending on the size of your move. Divide your items into small groups to make unloading approachable and manageable. You don’t need to unpack everything the first day, just the essentials.
- If you hired help to unpack, make sure to have your payment ready! Many movers will not unload your items until they receive payment.
- Start with the kitchen and unpack at least everything you need to make a meal. Depending on the size, a kitchen is one of the most functional rooms in any house. Once you set up your kitchen, you can prepare food and have space to work.
- Once you finish unpacking the kitchen, start unpacking and assembling your bedroom furniture. Moving is tiring. Make sure you have somewhere to rest at the end of the day. You might have more to unpack tomorrow.
- Last but not least, unpack your bathroom. Moving and unpacking is no walk in the park. End your day with a nice warm shower.
After Moving Day
Unpacking is an ongoing process. Don’t expect to unpack in one day unless you have professional help. Even then, organizing and arranging your items is another story.
- Unpack when you can! Committing time to unpack is difficult if you have to work the following day. Designate time that’s tolerable to your schedule. An hour a day can go a long way.
- If you have any delayed packages directed to your old house, reach out to the new owner and check the status of your mail.
- Start fresh and replace all the locks in your new home. Get the peace of mind of knowing that no one else can enter your house.
Claims and complaints
Did you notice any damage and need to file a moving claim?
Moving isn’t always ideal, leaving you with a host of new problems. If you move with professionals, we suggest working with companies that have reimbursement and compensation policies. Make sure all your items are covered!
Delays and damages are unfortunately common when it comes to less than reputable moving companies. These companies make filing claims and complaints a nightmare.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, you have nine months from the date of your move to file a claim. Don’t expect the company to file for any of your damages. File the claim yourself!
Hopefully, you are reading this article before you start looking for a moving company. Finding a reputable mover can save you a lot of time and money!
Exploring Your New Neighborhood
- There are going to be new scenes and scenery in your new neighborhood. Soak it in. Strike while the iron is hot.
- Meet your neighbors! Your neighbors can be one of the best resources in your arsenal. You never know when you might need them.
- Are there any events happening in your neighborhood? See what’s going on around town and mingle! Find out if you have any interests in joining any local clubs or groups.
- Are no events going on? Throw a housewarming party and invite the block.
- Leaving your old home means leaving behind your service providers. Review your neighborhood’s local businesses and see who covers your life’s needs.
Once you’ve got all your ducks in a row, you can finally start making yourself feel at home. We hope this guide helps you with your moving process.
Check out our long-distance moving partner for more moving tips!
Are you currently active military personnel? Check out this guide to determine your moving options.
