The Apartment Moving Checklist
Photo Credit: Pixabay
If you’re in the market for a new apartment, it’s best to start your search with a set game plan. If there’s one bit of advice we have to give, it’s to stay on track with a step-by-step moving checklist to get you (and all of your things!) from point A to point B. Keep our guide handy for organization before, during, and even after your move!
What to Ask an Apartment Manager
If you're in the "searching" phase of a new apartment, here are key questions to ask apartment managers or leasing consultants on a tour.
Two Months Before the Move
Whether your reason to relocate is for school, work opportunities, to be closer to family, or simply for a change of scenery, it’s best to begin your apartment hunt about two months before you plan on moving. Here are a few things to concentrate on during this time:
- Establish your monthly budget – and stick to it!
- Explore towns and apartment complexes in your desired area (Have you checked out Forest Properties’ Boston communities?)
- Research moving companies (The Other Guys is a favorite of Boston Magazine!)
Through all of this research, it’s important to stay organized. Consider creating a moving binder to keep all of your important letters, moving estimates, and receipts in one place. This is also a great spot to store copies of your lease and signed documents for quick reference.
Photo Credit: The Parkside Apartments
One Month To Go
With just one month until your move in date, it’s time to get things done! There are quite a few items you can check off your list at this point to save yourself from last minute planning:
- Secure a moving company (A Plus Moving & Storage provides interstate moves, supplies, and packing tips!)
- Gather boxes to get an early start on packing
- Change of address (be sure to pass your new address along to friends and family!)
When it comes to utilities, be sure to notify your current providers that you’ll be moving, and service should cease on a certain date. This will ensure your soon-to-be previous address won’t be charged for service after you move out. On the same note, set up services for your new address.
- Trash collection
- Cable, internet, and phone services
- Gas and electric
- Gym memberships
- Day care programs for kids and pets
The Two Week Countdown
Time flies when you’re excited to move! If you haven’t started to plan your packing, now is the time to do so. Start off with large furniture items and decide what you’ll bring along. For those extra chairs, couches, and dressers you can live without, consider donating them to your local Salvation Army or Goodwill store.
Next, begin to pack room by room. Label each box with where they should be placed in your new apartment (kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, etc.) As you pack breakable items like glasses, dishware, and art pieces, consider marking those boxes as load last, fragile, or do not stack.
When it comes to organization, create a section in your moving binder highlighting the inventory you’ll be shipping. The best time to make this list is as you pack each room, and will ensure nothing gets lost on your moving journey!
Photo Credit: Flickr.com
It’s Move In Day!
You’ve made it to move in day – congratulations on your new home! While it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with the amount of unpacking you have, remember to give yourself time to settle in. Designate one day for opening and organization boxes, another day for unpacking each room, and another for adding final touches to make your apartment feel like a home.
Here are the final checks to mark off your moving checklist:
- Do a final walkthrough of your apartment with the leasing consultant
- Ask for a signed copy of your lease
- Set aside your moving day survival kit – stocked with bottled water, snacks, a change of clothes, toilet paper, and a toiletry bag
- Do a final count of boxes once your moving company has delivered everything
- Clean your kitchen appliances (refrigerator, microwave, oven) before cooking your first meal at home
The Clearway Apartments in Boston
Just steps away from Boston's finest cafes, museums, and the iconic Fenway Park, The Clearway features one, two, and three bedroom apartments. Take a tour today!
Lastly, welcome to your new home! If you find yourself in the early stages of apartment hunting, check out Forest Properties’ featured apartments in the Boston-Metro area.
Posted in Boston Metro | Tagged apartment moving • apartment moving timeline • moving checklist
