Minimize mishaps with this move-in manifest
A checklist for moving into a new house keeps you organized before, during, and after your move with tasks like updating your address and scheduling utilities.
Deep cleaning your new home before unpacking creates a fresh start, and you can handle this yourself or hire a local cleaning company for thorough results.
Changing locks on your first day in your new home protects your family, and testing smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms keeps everyone safe right away.
Hiring a local moving company removes the stress of packing and hauling, keeping your belongings safe and letting you focus on settling into your new space.
Buying a new home can be one of the most exciting and anxiety-inducing experiences. But after signing on the dotted line, all the paperwork, packing, and other tasks can put a hold on any celebrations. Ticking off the tasks on this moving into a new house checklist will help keep you on track before, during, and after getting the keys. It provides peace of mind so you can pop the champagne, kick back, and enjoy your new pad.
Smart planning in the months and weeks before your move-in date is key to keeping things running smoothly. Below are some key tasks to consider as part of a moving-out checklist.
Schedule to set up or take over utilities when moving house (typically includes water, electricity, and gas and services like internet, TV services, and home insurance)
Update your address (send notice to your bank, voter registration, subscription services, social security, Medicare, Department of Motor Vehicles, etc.)
Set up a temporary mail forwarding service
Declutter your home to avoid filling your new space with unnecessary items
Schedule time off work for the move
Confirm movers if you hire a local moving company rather than loading a rental truck yourself
Procure packing supplies
Begin boxing up your belongings
Deep clean your old home
Book a sitter for pets or young kids
Stock up on water (moving is hot and heavy work)
When moving day rolls around, adding these items to your to-do list will help you relax at the end of the day, knowing that you’ve ticked off all the urgent tasks.
Child and pet-proof your new home
Inspect home for hazards such as loose floorboards or nails, leaks, and signs of mold
Reprogram remote access devices and update security system codes
Test electrics, plumbing, HVAC systems, and appliances
Unpack essentials
Tip movers (10% to 20% is standard to recognize a job well done)
While you don’t want to burn out by tackling too much in the first day or two after moving in, getting to these tasks within a week will keep your house safe and secure.
Deep clean the house or hire a local cleaning company
Unpack one room at a time
Change locks and consider updating or installing a security system
Make spare keys as necessary
Test smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and carbon monoxide detectors or install new ones
Check trash and recycling collection points or pickup days
Familiarize yourself with the neighborhood, including emergency services and essential suppliers
This is the time to turn your new house into a home. You’ll want to put together a non-urgent home maintenance checklist, including seasonal and annual improvement and repair tasks. Some of these may include:
There’s no need to unpack a seemingly never-ending pile of boxes on your first night in your new home. Instead, organize boxes of everyday essentials to open first. These can help you get things clean and comfy on your first few nights.
While this part of the move-in checklist will depend on your priorities and family setup, the items below will help you get started.
Bath towels
Hand towels
Toilet paper
Hand wash or soap
Toilet cleaner
Toilet brush
Toiletries and medications
Pillows
Mattress protectors
Bed linens
Lamps
Sponges
Dish soap
Disinfectant
Basic cooking supplies
Chopping board
Cutting knife
Basic cutlery
Paper towels
Dish towels
Saucepan
Wooden spoon
Wine opener
Kettle
Tea and coffee
Milk
Can opener
Trash cans and bags
Scissors
Extension cables
Phone chargers
Tablet or laptop
Changes of clothes
Pajamas
Slippers
Dustpan and broom
Multitool
Utility knife
Flashlight
First aid kit
Important paperwork
Supplies for children or pets if you have them
My furniture was delivered today, and the whole move went smoothly. The final cost matched the original quote with no extra charges. The movers were friendly, professional, and handled everything with care. Even after the long distance, everything arrived in perfect condition. I’m very happy...
Moving of AmericaShowed up on time and cleaned carpets well, but didn?t move furniture.
Voda Cleaning & Restoration of ColumbusA reliable team for moves across state. My switch to a new place needed careful lifting through tight hallways. The movers checked the doorway first, then carried heavier pieces with slow, controlled movements. Their patience helped prevent damage, and I?d choose them again.
**Would rate a 0 if i could** NEVER USE THIS COMPANY!!!!! They shattered my tv console and dresser, lost a mirror, and never finished the move. The broken furniture cost me over $600 to replace. They left me with 6+ hours of personal labor moving my 1BR apartment, when I was quoted a FULL...
All My Sons Moving & StorageI could not have moved without the help of Jen Stover! I was in my house for nearly 20 years, so the thought of clearing it out while working full time was overwhelming. Jen takes great joy in sorting and organizing while asking the hard questions with patience and compassion. Jen is...
Go and Stow Home OrganizingExcellent experience for me! They helped me a lot with my move. very reasonable price. Good communication with the office manager is excellent.
Goodview Moving and StorageI was concerned about my possessions safety throughout the move but Bridge View Van Lines took all necessary security measures to make sure everything arrived in mint shape I am really appreciative of their effort and commitment They made my long distance move seem simple
Bridgeview Van LinesThis moving company is the best in Columbus, Ohio! They rescued me when my movers didnâ t show up. Do not ever use Plane Movers! They never showed up for my move, claiming that I never signed the contract. They didnâ t call me to follow up, communication was awful. The people that work for...
All My Sons Moving & StorageOzie and Tyquese were great and worked fast. It was a good move
All My Sons Moving & StorageJust moved from PA to Columbus in a studio apartment and needed help with some heavy furnitures because I couldn't do it alone. I called Hyremovers and they did a great and timely job and also left my apartment walls intact. Great service!
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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