What is the First Thing to Do When Relocating? [2023]

Moving to a new place can be an exciting but overwhelming experience. With so many tasks to complete and decisions to make, it’s easy to feel lost and unsure of where to start. That’s why we’re here to help! In this article, we’ll guide you through the first thing you should do when relocating, along with a comprehensive checklist to ensure a smooth and stress-free move.

Table of Contents

Quick Answer

The first thing to do when relocating is to assess your moving needs. This involves determining the size of your move, the distance you’ll be traveling, and any specific requirements you may have. Once you have a clear understanding of your needs, you can begin planning and organizing your move accordingly.

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Quick Tips and Facts

  • Moving can be a stressful process, but with proper planning and organization, it can also be an exciting adventure.
  • Start planning your move as early as possible to allow for ample time to complete all necessary tasks.
  • Create a moving checklist to keep track of everything you need to do before, during, and after your move.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends, family, or professional movers. Moving is a team effort!
  • Take advantage of technology and use moving apps or online resources to streamline the moving process.

Background

Relocating to a new place is a significant life event that requires careful planning and preparation. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, there are certain steps you need to take to ensure a successful move. In this article, we’ll break down the process into manageable steps and provide expert advice to help you navigate through each stage of your move.

1. Assess Your Moving Needs

The first step in any successful move is to assess your moving needs. This involves considering factors such as the size of your move, the distance you’ll be traveling, and any specific requirements you may have. By understanding your needs, you can make informed decisions and plan your move accordingly.

Here are some questions to ask yourself during this assessment:

  • How much stuff do I need to move?
  • Do I need any special packing materials or equipment?
  • Will I require the services of a professional moving company?
  • Do I have any valuable or fragile items that require extra care?

Once you have a clear understanding of your moving needs, you can move on to the next step with confidence.

2. Create a Moving Budget

Moving can be expensive, so it’s essential to create a moving budget to help you stay on track financially. Start by estimating the costs associated with your move, including packing supplies, moving services, transportation, and any additional expenses.

Consider the following when creating your moving budget:

  • Research the average costs of moving services in your area.
  • Get quotes from multiple moving companies to compare prices.
  • Factor in the cost of packing supplies such as boxes, tape, and bubble wrap.
  • Don’t forget to include any additional expenses such as storage fees or travel costs.

By creating a budget, you can ensure that you’re financially prepared for your move and avoid any unexpected surprises along the way.

3. Research Moving Companies

If you’ve decided to hire a professional moving company, it’s crucial to do your research and find a reputable and reliable company. Take the time to read reviews, compare prices, and ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have recently moved.

When researching moving companies, consider the following:

  • Check if the company is licensed and insured.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials from previous customers.
  • Request a detailed quote that includes all services and fees.
  • Ask about any additional services they offer, such as packing or storage.

By choosing a reputable moving company, you can have peace of mind knowing that your belongings will be handled with care and that your move will be as smooth as possible.

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4. Declutter and Organize

Before you start packing, take the time to declutter and organize your belongings. Moving is an excellent opportunity to get rid of items you no longer need or want, making your move more manageable and your new home less cluttered.

Here are some tips for decluttering and organizing:

  • Sort your belongings into categories such as keep, donate, sell, or discard.
  • Hold a garage sale or sell unwanted items online to make some extra cash.
  • Donate gently used items to local charities or shelters.
  • Recycle or dispose of any items that cannot be donated or sold.

By decluttering and organizing before your move, you’ll save time and effort when packing and unpacking, and you’ll start fresh in your new home.

5. Notify Important Parties

As you prepare for your move, it’s essential to notify important parties of your upcoming relocation. This includes updating your address with the post office, notifying utility companies, and informing friends, family, and business contacts of your new address.

Here’s a list of parties you may need to notify:

  • Post office
  • Utility companies (electricity, water, gas, internet, etc.)
  • Banks and financial institutions
  • Insurance companies
  • Government agencies (DMV, IRS, voter registration, etc.)
  • Subscription services (magazines, newspapers, streaming platforms, etc.)
  • Friends, family, and business contacts

By notifying these parties in advance, you can ensure a smooth transition and avoid any disruptions in your services or communication.

6. Pack Strategically

Packing is one of the most time-consuming tasks when it comes to moving. To make the process more efficient, it’s essential to pack strategically and stay organized.

Here are some packing tips to help you stay on track:

  • Start packing early and tackle one room at a time.
  • Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to.
  • Pack fragile items with care and use bubble wrap or packing paper for added protection.
  • Use smaller boxes for heavy items and larger boxes for lighter items.
  • Pack essential items separately and keep them easily accessible.

By packing strategically, you’ll save time and effort when unpacking and ensure that your belongings arrive at your new home safely.

7. Take Care of Utilities and Services

Before you move out of your current home, it’s essential to take care of utilities and services to avoid any disruptions or additional charges.

Here’s a checklist of utilities and services to consider:

  • Contact your utility providers to schedule disconnection or transfer of services.
  • Cancel or transfer your internet, cable, and phone services.
  • Notify your insurance company of your move and update your policy if necessary.
  • Set up utilities and services at your new home, such as electricity, water, and internet.

By taking care of utilities and services in advance, you can ensure a smooth transition and avoid any unnecessary fees or inconveniences.

8. Prepare for Moving Day

Moving day can be hectic, but with proper preparation, you can minimize stress and ensure a smooth process.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for moving day:

  • Pack an essentials box with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home.
  • Confirm the details with your moving company, including the time of arrival and any specific instructions.
  • Prepare your home for the movers by clearing pathways and protecting floors and walls.
  • Take final meter readings and photographs of your old home for reference.
  • Double-check that all doors and windows are locked before leaving.

By preparing for moving day in advance, you can focus on the excitement of starting a new chapter in your life.

9. Settle into Your New Home

Once you’ve arrived at your new home, it’s time to settle in and make it feel like your own.

Here are some tasks to help you get settled:

  • Unpack strategically, starting with essential items and gradually working your way through each room.
  • Set up utilities and services at your new home.
  • Explore your new neighborhood and familiarize yourself with local amenities.
  • Register with local authorities, such as the DMV, if necessary.
  • Update your address with banks, insurance companies, and other relevant parties.

By taking the time to settle into your new home, you’ll feel more comfortable and start building a new life in your new surroundings.

FAQ

green and brown mountain under blue sky during daytime

What to do first when relocating?

The first thing to do when relocating is to assess your moving needs. Determine the size of your move, the distance you’ll be traveling, and any specific requirements you may have. This will help you plan and organize your move effectively.

Read more about “What are the First Steps to Relocating? …”

What is the first thing to do when moving to a new place?

When moving to a new place, the first thing to do is to create a moving budget. Estimate the costs associated with your move, including packing supplies, moving services, transportation, and any additional expenses. This will help you stay on track financially and avoid any unexpected surprises.

Read more about “How Do I Pack for a Move Checklist? …”

What should I start moving first?

When moving, it’s best to start with essential items that you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home. This includes items such as toiletries, bedding, clothing, and kitchen essentials. By packing these items separately and keeping them easily accessible, you can settle into your new home more comfortably.

Read more about “Which Room in the House Takes the Longest to Pack? …”

How do I start the process of moving?

To start the process of moving, begin by assessing your moving needs and creating a moving budget. Once you have a clear understanding of your needs and financial situation, you can research moving companies, declutter and organize your belongings, and notify important parties. From there, you can start packing strategically and taking care of utilities and services. Finally, prepare for moving day and settle into your new home.

Read more about “1 Year Moving Timeline …”

Conclusion

Relocating can be a daunting task, but with proper planning and organization, it can also be an exciting adventure. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle your move with confidence.

Remember to assess your moving needs, create a moving budget, research moving companies, declutter and organize, notify important parties, pack strategically, take care of utilities and services, prepare for moving day, and settle into your new home.

For more helpful resources and moving checklists, be sure to check out our Pre-Move Planning, Moving Essentials, Moving Day Checklist, and Packing Tips categories.

Happy moving!

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