Top 10 Things to Do After a Move

Moving into a new home can be both exciting and overwhelming. You’ve managed to transport your belongings, say goodbye to your old place, and finally step into your new space. But once the movers leave and the boxes are piled up in every room, you might be wondering—what now?

Here are the top 10 things to do after a move to help you get settled, stay organized, and make your new house feel like home.

1. Inspect Your Delivered Items

Before unpacking, take a moment to inspect your boxes and furniture for any damage or missing items. If you hired a moving company, compare the delivered inventory with your original checklist. In case of any issues, report them to the movers immediately to begin the claims process if needed.

2. Unpack Essentials First

Start by unpacking the essentials—bedding, toiletries, kitchenware, and a few changes of clothes. This will allow you to live comfortably while you gradually organize everything else. Create a priority-based unpacking plan so you don’t get overwhelmed trying to do everything at once.

3. Check Utilities and Set Up Services

Ensure that your electricity, water, gas, internet, and garbage collection services are activated and functioning properly. Contact local service providers if anything needs to be set up or if there are issues. If you haven’t already transferred or initiated these services before the move, now is the time to take care of them.

4. Change Your Address

It’s important to update your address as soon as possible. Notify the post office, banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, your employer, and any subscription services. Don’t forget to update your driver’s license and vehicle registration if you’ve moved to a new state.

5. Secure Your New Home

Change the locks and update any security codes for alarm systems or smart locks. Even if you trust the previous owner or landlord, you never know who may have a spare key. Consider installing a home security system or video doorbell for added peace of mind.

6. Locate Important Home Features

Find the location of your circuit breaker, main water shut-off valve, and gas shut-off. These are crucial in case of emergencies or home repairs. Also, check the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working properly, and replace the batteries if necessary.

7. Deep Clean the Entire House

Even if the previous occupants cleaned before leaving, it’s wise to do a thorough cleaning before settling in. Wipe down shelves, mop floors, clean bathrooms, and sanitize the kitchen. If you don’t have the time or energy, consider hiring a professional cleaning service for a fresh start.

8. Meet the Neighbors

Introduce yourself to your neighbors and start building connections in your new community. A friendly wave or short conversation can go a long way in making you feel welcome. Neighbors can also be a valuable resource for local recommendations and neighborhood tips.

9. Register Your Child in School and Find Local Providers

If you have children, research local schools, complete enrollment paperwork, and get familiar with bus schedules or drop-off policies. Also, look for new healthcare providers, veterinarians, dentists, and other important services in the area. Register with a local doctor and transfer your medical records as needed.

10. Personalize Your Space

Now comes the fun part—making your new house feel like home! Hang up photos, decorate rooms, and rearrange furniture until everything feels just right. Take your time exploring different layouts and styles. Creating a comfortable and personal environment will help you emotionally settle in and enjoy your new beginning.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Transition

Create a home maintenance checklist: Schedule seasonal tasks and upkeep reminders for your new home.
Join local community groups: Whether online or in-person, they’re great for getting involved and learning about events or services.
Keep all moving documents in one place: This includes receipts, contracts, and warranties for easy access if needed later.

Moving is a big life change, and while the process can be chaotic, taking the right steps afterward will help you transition smoothly. From unpacking essentials to meeting your neighbors, these tasks not only provide structure during a hectic time but also help you create a sense of belonging in your new space.

Remember, you don’t need to tackle everything in one day. Take it step by step, and soon enough, your new house will start to feel like home sweet home.

Ready to make your move stress-free and seamless?

Trust Jackson Moving, the experts in smooth transitions. Whether you’re looking for local movers in Naperville, need dependable Naperville movers, or require reliable Franklin Park movers, we’ve got you covered. Our team of local movers in Franklin Park is dedicated to providing top-notch service with care, precision, and professionalism.

Don’t wait—contact Jackson Moving today for a free quote and experience why we’re the go-to choice for families and businesses across Naperville and Franklin Park!