Moving into a new rental should be exciting. However, that last week leading up to moving day can really set the tone for your entire experience.
Here's the truth…
If you don't plan ahead, then last week is pure chaos. Chaos equals forgotten tasks, unexpected expenses, and stress.
Fortunately, with a handy checklist and good plan of attack, your last week before moving in can be simple. Even fun.
In this article:
The checklist that saves hours of stress
How to make movers work for you
Move-in tasks to complete before your big day
Last-minute checklist items most renters forget
The Stress-Free Moving In Checklist
The last week before moving in is crunch time.
This is when deadlines need to be met. Boxes need to be packed. Supplies need to be purchased. You get the point.
It's the week when everything comes together.
Or… falls horribly apart.
The difference? A good plan of attack.
Make sure you have confirmed all the loose ends with your new landlord. Make sure you know what time you are moving in, where to pick up your keys, and if there are any parking restrictions with moving trucks.
Below are the things that should get done before moving day:
Confirm your move-in date and time with your landlord
Verify if you need to park moving trucks on the street
Pick up all keys and access codes
Read through your lease one more time
This isn't an all-inclusive list. These are just a few things that should be done to ensure a stress-free move in.
How to Make Movers Work For You
Here's a little secret.
Hiring professional movers is one of the best things you can do when moving into a new rental. In fact, 82% of American movers who moved in 2024 believed the process to be stressful.
With that being said, many tend to cut corners by not hiring professional help.
Don't be that person.
Professional movers do all the heavy lifting for you. A local moving company like Immediate Movers & Storage will work with you to ensure your relocation goes smoothly and efficiently.
Benefits of using professional movers:
You don't have to lift heavy boxes
Moving companies load and unload quicker
Your belongings are protected
Overall less stress for you
Oh, and here's another thing…
Make sure to finalize all details with your movers a week before your move. Confirm your pickup time and address. Provide any special instructions for heavy or fragile items.
Complete Tasks Before Move-In Day
Believe it or not, the seven days leading up to move in are critical. Skipping one of these tasks can lead to even more headaches.
Let's dig in.
Turn On Your Utilities
You don't want to walk into your new rental and not have electricity, gas, or internet. Be sure to reach out to your utility companies at least a week in advance.
Here are a few utilities you should make sure are ready:
Electricity
Gas (if applicable)
Water service
Internet
Cable
For the most part, utility companies will take 2-5 business days to process your service request. Do not wait until the week of move in.
Have Your Address Changed
Okay, this one may seem like a no-brainer. However, changing your address with the post office is often overlooked.
File a change of address with your local post office. (You can actually do this online through USPS) After that, remember to file a change of address with your bank, employer, subscriptions, etc.
Deep Clean the Rental
Whether you are moving out of your current place or moving into your new rental…
You should always give the place a deep clean before moving day.
If you're moving out, you want to ensure your deposit back. If you're moving into your new place, it's easier to clean before you move all your furniture inside.
Don't Forget to Pack Strategically
Alright, now we're getting to the fun stuff. Packing.
As mentioned above, your last week is when you need to crack down and get everything packed.
Here is a packing strategy that will save you tons of time:
Make sure you start packing items you won't need before moving day. Seasonal clothes, excess towels, decorative knick-knacks, etc.
Pack a "first night" box with things you know you'll need as soon as you get to your new place. Important: Toiletries, phone chargers, medications, snacks, clean clothes, etc.
Label your freakin boxes. This can't be stressed enough.
Snatch Up Last-Minute Tasks
There's always one or two things you forget to do. Weird how that happens right?
Here's a quick list of tasks most renters miss before moving into a new place.
Take Pictures of Your Rental
This may sound silly, but take pictures of your rental before you move any of your belongings inside.
A great time to do this is before you bring your furniture inside. If there are any existing damages, you'll want to document them.
Email these pictures to your landlord with a date stamp. You never know, this could save you some money down the road.
Double Check Safety Features
Your landlord should have already checked, but double-checking doesn't hurt.
Make sure all smoke detectors are working. See if there are fire extinguishers around the rental. Locate all exits in case of emergency.
Introduce Yourself to Neighbors
Last but not least, introduce yourself to your neighbors.
You never know, your neighbors may become your new friends. Not only that, but your neighbors are a great source for tips on the building, surrounding neighborhoods, and local businesses.
Moving Day Doesn't Have to Suck
Moving day will be here before you know it.
When the big day arrives, just know that preparation is key. Get up early. Have coffee ready to go. Put all important documents, boxes with essentials, and your phone all in one location.
If you're using professional movers, be available to answer any questions. Point out rooms your movers should deliver to. Highlight any fragile items.
According to research, 40% of movers overspent on their move. Don't be that person. Always have a backup budget for last-minute expenses.
Conclusion
As mentioned earlier, your last week before moving in is crucial.
By preparing your utilities, packing wisely, and utilizing professional movers…
You'll ensure the week before moving into your rental runs smoothly.
Remember:
Double check move in details with your landlord and movers
Transfer all needed utilities
Pack ahead of time and label your boxes
Take pictures of your new rental
Stock up on cleaning supplies to deep clean once you move in
That last week doesn't have to be stressful. Prepare ahead of time and you're moving into a rental will be a breeze.
