It’s natural to feel like there’s something you forgot to do, but it’s a lot more likely that there’s just simply more to be done.
As far as moving is concerned, the hardest part is getting there. The planning, logistics, and execution that goes into your move day should be—and will be—your primary focus. Once you’ve arrived at your new home and unpacked, however, you might find yourself sitting on your couch in your new living room feeling a little unsettled on that first night.
Moving to a new home in a new city is a big change, and even after you’ve arrived there are some things that need to be taken care of before it really becomes home. Don’t worry about trying to figure it all out yourself, we’ve done it for you.
In a Nutshell
- Arrange utility activation 2 weeks before your move
- Find local services like banking, health care, and insurance ASAP
- Submit change of address forms before your move
Utilities
It’s hard to feel at home without comforts like heat, electricity, and internet. It’s actually best to inquire about your utilities around two weeks prior to moving, but that’s not always how it ends up working out. Luckily, if you don’t get around to it before moving, it’s easy to remember since a home without utilities is readily apparent. These are the prime utility accounts you’ll want set up.
Electric
To get your electric setup, call your local electric company. If you don’t know who your supplier is, ask your landlord. Sometimes it’s as easy as having the service switched to your name.
Water
Considering you need water to live (and bathe), you’ll want to handle this one ASAP. Some apartments include this in the rent cost, but not all. It’s really easy to get this one set up, you just need to have it switched over to your name.
Gas
Most cities have multiple options for gas service. Do some research to see which natural gas company will give you the best deal, then call to inquire about getting it set up.
Cable / Internet / Phone
Some areas have more options for cable, internet, and phone services than others. If you live in an apartment building, there’s a good chance that you’ll be subject to the company your landlord has made a deal with. While none of these are technically a necessity, most people at least go for internet, which is especially important if you’re starting a new job.
Home Security
Another optional utility, home security can give you an extra feeling of comfort. There are normally several home security providers in a given area, and they usually offer several tiers of protection. If home security is important to you, see what your area offers and find the right solution.
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Insurance
Home / Apartment
Considering that there are multiple kinds of insurance, taking care of insurance-related tasks after moving is a bit more complex than many of these tasks. If you purchased a home with a mortgage, the chances are the bank required you to get insurance. That and rental insurance are normally taken care of before moving, but if they aren’t, it’s something you’ll want to do as soon as possible.
Health / Dental / Life
If you’re starting a new job, your employer may be providing you with some mix of health, dental, and life insurance. Your HR department will assist you in setting those up. If you’re staying on an existing plan, however, you’ll want to be sure you update your providers with your new address and other pertinent information.
Auto
Auto Insurance is a little different. Each state has unique requirements for car insurance. Make sure that the state you’re moving to doesn’t require more coverage than your existing plan. Driving without the proper protection is illegal, so it’s vitally important to keep everything up to date. If you contact your current provider, they should be more than happy to assist you in any way you need them to.
Doctors
You probably aren’t going to fly back to you former home every time you need a checkup, and you never know when you might need to see a doctor. Finding a new physician might not be a first-week necessity, but it’s definitely something you’ll want to take care of sooner rather than later. Check out Zocdoc.com to get reviews and comparative pricing. It’s a great tool for making an informed decision on a doctor covered under your insurance. You can use it for finding a new dentist too.
Banking
If you choose to bank with a nationwide company then you can simply switch branches without hassle. If you prefer to do business with smaller, local banks, then you’ll have to find a new one once you arrive in your new city.
The most important step involving moving and banks is getting your credit card billing information updated. Most online purchases require an accurate billing address, and once yours has changed you must notify your credit card provider immediately.
Change of Address / Mail Forwarding
One of the more difficult things to do after moving, even when you’re conscious of it, is changing your address everywhere it needs to be. Most people have so many different accounts that a couple of them slip through the cracks during a move. Getting the major ones out of the way first is the best practice, but don’t neglect the less crucial items! Here are some of the most common things that require a change of address notification:
- Bills (cell phone, insurance, car payments, etc.)
- Online retailers (Amazon, eBay, etc.)
- Student loan payment
- Retail cards (think Gap, Macy’s, gas stations, etc.)
- Previous employer (if they still need it)
- Magazine and paper subscriptions.
You can set up mail forwarding through the United States Postal Service.
Misc. To-dos
- Register to vote
- Subscribe to a local newspaper
- Get a local library card
- Update your driver's license
- Get to know your neighbors
- Explore the city
- Parks
- Sports events
- Restaurants
- Tours and sightseeing
