Whether it’s your first apartment, you’re upgrading, downsizing, or moving to a new city, apartment moving can be tricky. Read below for apartment move-in and move-out tips to help you have a successful move!
Top Apartment Move-In Tips
If you’re moving into a new apartment, there are quite a few things you need to think through ahead of time and definitely once you’ve signed your lease. Hiring a moving company is a good option if you don’t have anyone to help you move or simply don’t want to move everything yourself. When choosing a moving company, it’s important to make sure you’re hiring a reputable moving company, like RT Relocation. Do your research by checking the US Department of Transportation’s list of moving company red flags, make sure they are licensed and insured and be sure to read the reviews.
Renter’s Insurance
Depending on your situation, your renter’s insurance should move with you; however, you should contact your insurance agent or insurance company, in advance, to notify them of your move. Keep in mind, they often need a 30-day notice, so the sooner, the better. If you don’t have renter’s insurance yet, now is the time to buy it. Some policies may even cover any items damaged during your move, should you choose not to hire a moving company.
Measure, Measure, Measure!
Before you move in, it’s essential to make sure all of your stuff will fit. Not only should you have the dimensions of your new space, but you should also measure any of your big and bulky items like your oversized sofa, king sized bed, large dresser, etc.
Also, whether you’re moving yourself or you’ve hired movers, like RT Relocation, you need to make sure you can get your large items into your new place. Being on any floor, other than the ground floor, can make moving furniture into an apartment tricky. There are often narrow hallways, tight corners, doorways, and stairs to navigate through. So be sure to also measure the doorways, hallways, and elevator if there is one. If they don’t fit, you will need to figure out if they can be hoisted through a window or patio door – and if that’s not possible, you may need to donate, sell or store them in a storage unit.
Coordinate Your Move with Management
If you don’t have your keys yet, you should plan to get them in advance of moving day. Also, some apartments have certain requirements you need to follow. Things such as booking the elevator, keeping the gate open, truck access and parking, etc. It could cost you a lot mentally and monetarily if you miss something, so be sure to check with management in advance.
Secure Your Security Deposit, Up Front
To ensure you get your security deposit back when you move out, you should document the condition of your apartment before you move your stuff in. Take pictures and videos of your new place, focusing on any damage you may see (no matter how minute). Be sure to file everything somewhere safe in a place that you will remember. You could even send copies to your landlord now, which will ensure proof that they were aware of any issues upfront. There is also an app for that! RentCheck will ensure you don’t miss any important areas during your preliminary inspection, not to mention your photos are time-stamped, stored securely, and ready to share with your new landlord.
Lights, Water, Cable, Action!
Two weeks before your move-in date, contact all of your utility companies (electric, water, cable, internet, etc.) It’s a good idea to have your utilities scheduled to turn on the day before you move in. You’ll want to be sure you have power and running water when you move in, and scheduling it for the same day is taking a risk. Scheduling it the day before allows you to ensure that everything is turned on and working properly. Not only will you be grateful, your moving company (if you hired one) will thank you as well. Also, if your internet and cable are turned on your first night, you can watch TV while you’re unpacking!
Stock and Clean
It’s best to clean everything, like the floors and bathrooms, before you move your stuff in. Be sure to bring the essentials, such as cleaning supplies, a vacuum cleaner, toilet paper, garbage bags, soap, etc. This way, you can feel right at home once your stuff gets moved in.
Nextdoor
Once you’ve settled into your new apartment, you could join Nextdoor, an app for neighborhoods where you can meet your neighbors, get local tips, buy and sell items, and more.
Apartment Move-Out Tips
If you’re moving out of an apartment, like above, there are quite a few things you need to think through ahead of time, like your renter’s insurance, utilities, and coordinating your move with management.
Packing
It’s important to pack your belongings ahead of time, so you don’t feel rushed and stressed. Now is the time to gather the moving supplies you will need such as, cardboard boxes, packing paper, packing tape, bubble wrap, plastic wrap, blankets, permanent markers, etc. This moving checklist can help you get started: How to Pack for a Move: Room-by-Room Checklist.
Proper Notice
Make sure to give the proper amount of notice (in writing) before planning your move. Some properties require only 30 days, but others require a 60 or 90-day notice. You can find this information in your lease or by contacting the management company. If you don’t give the right amount of notice, you may end up having to pay two rents!
Clean, Clean, Clean!
Cleaning is a critical step in moving out of an apartment. It will help ensure you get your security deposit back. You can do it yourself or hire someone. There are many cleaning companies that specialize in move-out cleaning.
Security Deposit
If you paid your rent on time, took care of your apartment, and thoroughly cleaned it after all of your stuff was moved out, you shouldn’t have an issue getting your security deposit back. Be sure to give your new or forwarding address to management so that they can mail your security deposit to you.
Whether you’re moving in or out, on your own, or with movers, moving day is exhausting. Be sure to stop at the grocery store for some water and snacks, and be sure to get a good night’s rest the night before your move.
Moving is stressful for everyone, but with proper planning and consideration, the stress can be minimized. If you know you’re are going to move, request a quote today and let us help you plan your move.