Your First Apartment Move: Everything You Need to Know
Moving into your first apartment is exciting — and a little overwhelming. Whether you're a recent graduate, starting a new job, or simply striking out on your own, this checklist will keep you organized and on budget.
4 Weeks Before Your Move
- [ ] Sign your lease and get your move-in date confirmed
- [ ] Set a moving budget (average studio/1-bed move: $300–$800)
- [ ] Start collecting boxes — check local stores, Facebook Marketplace, or buy a kit
- [ ] Notify your current landlord (if applicable) about move-out date
- [ ] Set up utilities at your new place (electric, gas, internet, water)
- [ ] Submit a free service order on Extra Help Moving for quotes
2 Weeks Before
- [ ] Change your address with USPS, bank, employer, and subscriptions
- [ ] Start packing non-essential items (seasonal clothes, books, decorations)
- [ ] Confirm your movers or reserve a rental truck
- [ ] Buy renter's insurance (most landlords require it — typically $15–$30/month)
- [ ] Take photos of your current place for deposit documentation
1 Week Before
- [ ] Pack everything except daily essentials
- [ ] Prepare an "essentials box" — toiletries, phone charger, snacks, change of clothes, basic tools
- [ ] Confirm elevator/loading dock reservation at your new building (if applicable)
- [ ] Defrost and clean your fridge (if you're taking it)
- [ ] Disassemble large furniture
Moving Day
- [ ] Do a final walkthrough of your old place
- [ ] Take photos of empty rooms for deposit return
- [ ] Load heavy items first, fragile items last
- [ ] Keep valuables (laptop, jewelry, documents) with you
- [ ] Tip your movers ($20–$40 per mover for a half-day job is standard)
First Week in Your New Apartment
- [ ] Test all lights, outlets, faucets, and appliances
- [ ] Document any pre-existing damage and report to landlord
- [ ] Change the locks or get new keys (ask your landlord)
- [ ] Set up your internet and TV
- [ ] Unpack the essentials box first, then go room by room
- [ ] Meet your neighbors — it makes apartment living much better
First Apartment Essentials to Buy
Kitchen: Basic cookware, utensils, dish soap, trash bags, paper towels
Bathroom: Shower curtain and rings, bath mat, towels, toilet paper, plunger
Bedroom: Mattress (if not bringing one), sheets, pillows, hangers
General: Toolkit, flashlight, batteries, first-aid kit, cleaning supplies
Budget Tips
- Don't buy everything at once — furnish gradually as you figure out what you actually need
- Check Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist — quality used furniture at a fraction of new prices
- Skip the full-service move — for a studio or 1-bedroom, hiring labor-only movers ($200–$400) plus a rental truck ($50–$100) is usually cheaper
- Get quotes from multiple movers — submit a free service order on Extra Help Moving and compare real prices from verified professionals