After months of stressing and planning, you finally completed your move. You’re in a new city with new faces and places to explore. Are you ready to start the next chapter of your life?
Looking at all the boxes you have to unpack might tell you differently.
Professional cross-country movers can make your move as stress-free as possible by expediting the process for an additional cost. Make sure you work with a reputable company before you choose a company to unpack your items. Thanks to widely available information and ratings, finding the best cross-country movers using a simple search on the internet is possible.
Professional movers provide peace of mind and reduce the likelihood of filing a claim for any damages that occur during your move. The most reputable moving companies have the best supplies to protect and store your items, as well as different reimbursement policies just in case anything happens.
What exactly do you need to know for arrival day? Check out this checklist to make move-in day a breeze. Now that everything is in your new home, it’s time to make it yours. We start with getting everything in order before your items arrive.
Before Your Furniture and Items Arrive
- Can you get in and out? Ensure every lock is unlockable and every door and window works properly—record and list anything that needs fixing or replacement.
- Locate and test every smoke and carbon monoxide detector. Replace any old batteries.
- Check the faucets, outlets, meters, breaker boxes, water heater, refrigerator, HVAC, security system, range and oven. Locate shutoff valves for water both inside and outside the home. Report any issues immediately.
- Lightly clean surfaces for now. Moving is dirty. Expect to clean more after you unpack. Start early and give yourself a clean environment to navigate around. You can wipe away dust during your walk-through.
- Make sure your internet and utilities work. We suggest registering your services a couple of weeks before move-in day.
- If you are working with moving professionals, make sure your game plan is clear and transparent. List where items need to go and where you want them.
Unpacking Begins
- When your items arrive, be available to verify inventory and check items off the list. Record any visible damages and coss-reference your initial list. Labeling your boxes beforehand can make organization easy for you and your movers.
- If you read 50+ packing and moving tips, you would know to create an appropriate essentials kit and have a box labeled “Open First” filled with necessities that will get your household functioning before unpacking is complete. Retrieve the equipment and keep it on hand during the day.
- Start with the more oversized furniture like beds and tables. Having somewhere to sleep and work is a priority! Professional movers can disassemble and reassemble your furniture for an extra cost!
After the First Day of your Cross-country Move
- If you have small children or pets, make sure the house is safe for them. There’s a chance you still need a few days to unpack. We suggest zoning out areas for them until everything is clean and safe.
- Update your license and insurance records with your new address. Premiums can change considerably based on your zip code.
- Create an annual maintenance checklist after rechecking your appliances. If your central air is over 20 years old, consider replacing your unit as a top priority.
Exploring New Neighborhood
- Chances are you have already researched your new neighborhood, but now it is time to enjoy the features and attractions. Go for a nice drive or walk, depending on the size of your new community.
- You can also collect a lot of information about your neighborhood in seconds by using your smartphone or computer.
- Speak to your neighbors and ask them to refer local businesses for you. Compile a list of home repair services, dining locations, and medical clinics available in your area.
Moving to the midwest? Click here and check out this Midwest moving guide from our partners American Way.
Do you still need help finding a moving company for a cross-country move? Click here and learn how to find the best moving company for your needs!
