Unpacking boxes is the fun part. But before you can do that, there’s the groundwork—the prep work that turns your new house into a clean, safe, and comfortable home.
If you think moving ends when the truck is unloaded, think again. The smartest moves begin before that moment, starting with a checklist of tasks to complete before you even arrive with your belongings. Whether you’re buying your first home or renting a new apartment, prepping your space in advance saves you time, money, and post-move frustration.
Here’s a countdown of the 10 most essential things to do before moving into your new place.
10. Change the Locks
Security comes first. Unless your home is a brand-new build, you have no way of knowing how many spare keys exist—or who might have them.
Schedule a locksmith to change out all exterior locks or install keyless entry systems. Don’t forget side doors, back doors, and garage entrances. This is a small investment with huge peace of mind.
9. Deep Clean the Entire Home
Even if the previous residents cleaned before leaving, you’ll want to do your own sweep. Focus on:
- Inside kitchen cabinets and drawers
- Bathroom tiles, grout, and toilet bases
- Ceiling fans, baseboards, and vents
- Inside closets and behind appliances
It’s much easier to clean a home before furniture and boxes are in the way. If you don’t have the time, consider hiring a cleaning service for a pre-move-in refresh.
8. Check Safety Devices
Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and fire extinguishers should all be tested and replaced if needed. Make sure:
- Smoke alarms are present in every bedroom and hallway
- Carbon monoxide detectors are near sleeping areas
- Fire extinguishers are up to date and accessible
Also, locate the main circuit breaker and water shut-off valve in case of emergencies.
7. Set Up Utilities and Services
You don’t want to arrive on move-in day only to discover the lights don’t turn on or there’s no running water. At least one to two weeks before your move, contact:
- Electricity provider
- Water and sewage company
- Gas service
- Trash and recycling collection
- Internet and cable providers
Some accounts may require a final meter reading or an installation appointment, especially for internet and gas services.
6. Take Measurements and Plan Layouts
Once your furniture arrives, you’ll want to know exactly where it’s going. Before move-in day, visit your new home with a measuring tape and note the dimensions of:
- Entryways and stairwells
- Living room and dining spaces
- Bedroom wall lengths
- Window sizes (for curtains and blinds)
Sketch simple layouts or use a home design app to visualize your space. Knowing what fits—and where—makes moving in quicker and avoids last-minute surprises.
5. Tackle Minor Repairs
If your new place needs touch-ups or small fixes, now’s the time. It’s easier to paint, patch holes, or replace light fixtures when the home is empty. Keep a basic toolkit on hand and address:
- Scratches, dents, or holes in walls
- Flickering lights or broken outlets
- Squeaky doors or loose hinges
- Leaky faucets or slow drains
If a repair requires professional help, schedule it in advance to avoid delays once you’ve moved in.
4. Childproof and Pet-Proof
If you have children or pets, do a safety sweep before moving in:
- Cover outlets and secure heavy furniture to walls
- Install baby gates or door locks where needed
- Remove choking hazards like exposed cords or loose hardware
- Check the yard for poisonous plants or gaps in fencing
A few hours of prep can prevent major accidents later—and make your move smoother for the whole family.
3. Forward Your Mail and Update Your Address
Don’t let important mail get lost in the shuffle. Visit your local post office or go online to set up mail forwarding through USPS.
Also notify:
- Banks and credit card companies
- Insurance providers
- Subscriptions and streaming services
- Employers and schools
- Healthcare providers
It’s smart to create a list and knock these out over a few days rather than all at once.
2. Inspect and Document
Before move-in day, take time to document the condition of the home—especially if you’re renting. Use your phone to take dated photos or videos of:
- Flooring
- Walls and ceilings
- Appliances
- Windows and doors
Keep a copy of your lease or purchase agreement handy, and write down any issues you notice. For renters, sharing this with the landlord protects your security deposit down the road.
1. Stock the Essentials
You won’t be able to unpack everything in a day, so plan for immediate needs. Pack or shop for:
- Toilet paper and paper towels
- Trash bags and basic cleaning supplies
- Shower curtain and toiletries
- Snacks and bottled water
- A set of sheets and towels
- Extension cords and power strips
Moving day is exhausting. Having these essentials on hand will help you feel at home faster, even if the rest of your boxes stay sealed for a while.
Bonus Tip: Schedule Your Movers Strategically
Once the home is prepped, it’s time to coordinate your actual move. Book your moving company at least 3–6 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons. Confirm the address, access details, and parking arrangements ahead of time.
Working with an experienced provider like Tera Moving Services can make a major difference. Their attention to detail and organized approach allow you to focus on getting settled while they handle the heavy lifting.
Final Word
A move doesn’t truly start when the truck arrives. It starts before that—when you clean, inspect, prep, and plan your new space. Taking the time to ready your home ahead of move-in day sets the tone for a smoother, more enjoyable transition.
Instead of playing catch-up later, start strong. The more effort you invest before moving in, the faster you’ll feel at home—and the less likely you’ll run into avoidable problems.
From checking smoke detectors to scheduling utility hookups, these tasks may not be glamorous, but they’re essential. And when you pair them with a reliable moving company like Tera Moving Services, the process becomes less of a hassle and more of a fresh start.