Last Updated on December, 2024
Moving to a new home is a huge deal, and I totally get it—it can be both exciting and overwhelming at the same time. I’ve got you covered with a step-by-step complete checklist.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be in your new place in no time!
Quick Summary
- Key pre-move tasks include setting up utilities, updating your address, decluttering, confirming movers, and packing essential items in a “first night” box for immediate needs.
- On moving day, conduct a final walk-through of the new place, direct movers to the right rooms, track belongings, and clean up the old home before leaving.
- After settling in, focus on safety (testing alarms, securing the home), unpacking essentials first, meeting neighbors, and setting up essentials like auto-payments and home maintenance plans.
You Ultimate Moving House Checklist
Pre-Move: The Prep Work
Let’s be real, proper planning is half the battle. You’ve got to stay on top of a few things before the big day to ensure it goes smoothly.
- Get the Utilities Ready
A couple of weeks before the move-in date, start contacting your utility suppliers. You’ll need to set up or transfer services like electricity, water, gas, and internet at your new property.
It might not sound glamorous, but trust me, there’s nothing worse than moving into a new place and realising you can’t even charge your phone.
Most utility companies can set everything up remotely now, so get this sorted early to avoid any hiccups on day one. Also, remember to take meter readings in both your old home and new one to avoid any billing confusion.
- Change Your Address
Don’t forget to update your address with all the other organisations, such as your bank, driving licence authority, and other providers.
It’s also a good idea to forward your mail to your new address, just in case something slips through the cracks. Being on the electoral roll at your new address is essential too!
Plus, do not forget to keep all your important documents like passport, ID, insurance policy documents handy.
- Declutter Before Packing
Let’s be honest, this is the perfect time to get rid of all the non-essentials cluttering up your home. Haven’t worn that jacket in two years? Out it goes. Why move things you never use? Start packing only the important items you’ll need right away. As for the rest, self-storage or donations could help lighten the load.
- Confirm Your Professional Movers
Whether you’re using a removals company or recruiting friends to help, double-check the plans a few days ahead. If you’re renting a moving truck, ensure it’s ready. No one wants last-minute surprises when the day arrives!
- Pack a “First Night” Box
Pack a labeled box with all the essential items you’ll need immediately when you move in. Think basic toiletries, kitchen utensils, a change of clothes, phone chargers, tea bags and maybe a couple of snacks and basic cleaning products.
You don’t want to be digging through boxes at 10 p.m. looking for your toothbrush, right? Trust me, in the future you will be so grateful for this little box of all the essentials.
- Change the Locks
This one is easy to overlook, but it’s super important. As soon as you move in, either hire a locksmith or change the lock yourself.
You never know who might still have a key to your new place. Installing window locks and testing the security system are other ways to increase safety.
- Make a Plan for Kids and Pets
If you have little ones, whether they are human or furry, it’s best to plan for their care on moving day. The hustle and bustle can be overwhelming, so ask a family member or friend to babysit or pet-sit for a few hours. It’ll make the day much easier for you and them.
Moving Day
You’ve done all the prep work, and now it’s time to get everything from point A to point B. Here’s how to stay sane during the move.
- Do a Final Walk-Through of Your New Place
Before everything gets unloaded, check the new house to ensure it’s in working order. Look for any necessary repairs, confirm the HVAC system is functioning, and make sure things like is in place.
- Direct the Movers
If you’ve labelled your moving boxes by room (highly recommended!), the movers will know where to place them, making unpacking so much easier later on. If you have valuable items, point those out for extra care.
- Keep Track of Your Stuff
As everything comes off the truck, keep a mental or physical checklist of your belongings. Make sure nothing gets left behind or damaged. You might feel a little paranoid, but better safe than sorry, right?
- Clean Up Your Old Place
Before you leave your old home for good, give it a final clean with basics like a vacuum cleaner. Whether you’re renting or selling, leaving it in good condition can help you avoid any last-minute disputes.
Either DIY it or hire a cleaning service if you’re short on time or energy.
After the Move
Congrats! You’ve made it through the hardest part. Now it’s time to make your new house feel like home. Here’s what to focus on after you’re all moved in:
- Test the Safety Stuff
Before you get too cosy, test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. This only takes a minute, but it’s super important for your peace of mind.
If any of these are missing, now’s the time to install these lifesavers (make them your top priority!)
- Set Up Home Security
Home security systems aren’t just for the super cautious—they are for everyone who wants to feel a little more at ease in their new home.
Whether it’s installing a full system or just putting up some motion sensor lights outside, take the time to make sure you feel secure in the new city.
- Unpack Without Rushing
Don’t feel like you need to unpack everything in one day. Start with the essentials—the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom, and go from there. Moving can be exhausting, so pace yourself. You’ve got time to make the place feel perfect!
- Meet the Neighbours
I know it can feel a little awkward, but introducing yourself to the neighbours is a great way to start building a community in your new area. Even just saying hello can go a long way in making you feel more at home. Plus, you never know when you’ll need to borrow a cup of sugar.
Essential Home Stuff to Have
When you’re setting up your new place, there are a few most important things you’ll definitely want to have on hand. Here’s a quick list of absolute basics for your new home:
- Living Room: Comfy sofa, coffee table, and TV.
- Kitchen: Pots, pans, utensils, bucket dustpan, and your favourite coffee maker.
- Bathroom: Paper towels, toilet paper, and a shower curtain.
- Bedroom: Cosy bedding, storage unit, and maybe some curtains for privacy.
- Office: A decent desk and chair if you’re working from home.
- Laundry: Detergent, hampers, and an ironing board.
After-Moves to-Dos
Once the dust has settled, make sure you switch energy providers and here are a few more things to cross off your list:
- Set Up Auto Payments
You’ll want to make sure your utilities, home insurance, rent, or mortgage are all set up for automatic payments. Nothing worse than getting hit with late fees right after a move!
Make sure your buildings insurance and contents insurance policies are updated to reflect your new home.
- Baby-Proof or Pet-Proof
If you’ve got kids or pets, go ahead and make sure the new home is safe for them. Child-proof cabinets, block off any dangerous areas, and put up baby gates where needed.
- Plan Home Maintenance
Now that you’re settled, start thinking about the long-term upkeep of your new house. Schedule things like changing air filters, checking for leaks, and cleaning the gutters.
Useful guides:
Final Thoughts
There you have it, your ultimate, stress-free moving home checklist. With a little panning and this guide, you’ll be well on your way to turning your new place into a cosy, functional home.
And if you’re looking for a helping hand to make the moving process even easier, I’d recommend checking out Quick Man Van.
We offer reliable, hassle-free moving services, so you don’t have to worry about the heavy lifting. It’s always nice to know you’ve got pros on your side when things get hectic. Happy moving!
