The Ultimate New Movers Checklist: Everything You Need for a Smooth Start

Moving into a new home is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming. Between unpacking boxes, setting up utilities, and getting to know your new neighborhood, it’s easy to forget the little things that make a big difference. That’s why we’ve created this new movers’ checklist: a step-by-step guide to help you settle in smoothly, stay organized, and start feeling at home from day one.

Before You Move: Prep Like a Pro

A smooth move begins with smart planning. In the weeks leading up to your move, take care of key details to avoid last-minute stress. Start by updating your address with the USPS, banks, and any subscription services. Be sure to transfer or set up essential utilities like electricity, gas, internet, water, and trash pickup in advance. As you pack, clearly label your boxes by room and importance to streamline the unpacking process. Schedule a thorough cleaning of your new home before move-in day — especially if someone lived there before you. And don’t forget to measure rooms and doorways so you know what furniture fits where.

Follow these steps to get ahead:

• Change your address with USPS, banks, and subscriptions at least two weeks in advance.

• Transfer or set up utilities (electricity, gas, internet, water, trash service)

• Label boxes by room and priority for easier unpacking

• Schedule a deep clean of the new home before move-in

• Measure rooms and doorways to ensure furniture fits

Creating a dedicated moving folder is another simple way to stay organized during a move. Use it to store essential documents like your lease or purchase agreement, moving company contracts, utility setup confirmations, receipts, and a running inventory of your packed belongings.

Moving Day Essentials: What to Keep on Hand

Moving day can be chaotic, so it’s smart to pack a personal essentials bag or clearly labeled box with everything you’ll need right away. Include toiletries, medications, and a change of clothes so you can freshen up without digging through boxes. Keep phone chargers, extension cords, and a basic tool kit handy for quick fixes and setup tasks. Have paper towels, trash bags, and cleaning supplies on hand for spills or touch-ups. Don’t forget snacks, bottled water, and anything your pets may need. Having these items within easy reach will help you stay comfortable and focused as you move in.

Keep these items in a personal essentials bag or clearly labeled box:

• Toiletries, medications, and a change of clothes

• Phone chargers and extension cords

• Basic tools (screwdriver, box cutter, flashlight)

• Paper towels, trash bags, and cleaning supplies

• Snacks, bottled water, and pet essentials

Pro tip: wear comfortable clothing when you move. Comfortable clothes on moving day helps you stay flexible and mobile as you lift, bend, and carry boxes. Breathable fabrics and supportive footwear can reduce the risk of overheating, fatigue, or injury during physically demanding tasks.

First Week Must-Dos: Settle In with Ease

Once the boxes are inside and the movers are gone, it’s time to turn your attention to settling in. The first week in a new home is the perfect time to take care of foundational tasks that help you feel comfortable, safe, and connected. From unpacking essentials to updating your documents, tackling these priorities early will make your new place feel like home much faster.

Here’s where to start:

• Unpack daily essentials first (kitchen, bathroom, bedding)

• Test appliances, smoke detectors, and locks for safety

• Update your driver’s license and voter registration, if needed

• Set up mail delivery and check that your mailbox is secure

• Introduce yourself to neighbors to begin building connections

• Locate the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, and urgent care

It’s also important to walk through your home and identify any repairs or maintenance tasks that need attention. Look for issues like leaky faucets, faulty light switches, loose cabinet doors, or HVAC systems that may require servicing. Addressing these early on prevents small problems from becoming bigger ones and ensures your home is safe, functional, and comfortable from the start.

Make It Feel Like Home

Now that the essentials are in place, it’s time to make your new house feel like home. This stage is all about creating comfort, adding personal touches, and building routines that bring warmth and familiarity to your space. Small changes can make a big impact — helping you relax, recharge, and truly enjoy your new environment.

Focus your efforts here:

• Hang curtains or blinds to create privacy and coziness

• Add décor like artwork, photos, and personal items

• Organize closets, drawers, and cabinets for daily convenience

• Set up recurring deliveries for groceries or household staples

• Use candles, diffusers, or music to create a welcoming atmosphere

• Stock your pantry and fridge with your favorite go-to items

Be intentional with the design of your new place. Arranging your furniture with traffic, seating, and vibe in mind helps your space feel balanced, inviting, and practical. Focus on creating clear walkways, positioning key pieces for conversation or relaxation, and ensuring each room serves its intended purpose.

Don’t Forget Sleep Essentials

Amid the chaos of moving, sleep essentials are often overlooked — but they’re crucial for maintaining energy and focus during your transition. A good night’s sleep helps you recharge physically and mentally, especially after the demands of unpacking and adjusting to a new environment. Prioritizing sleep comfort from day one will make your space feel more like home and help you settle in faster.

Here’s how you can prioritize your rest soon after arriving in your new place:

• Set up your bed as early as possible with clean sheets and pillows

• Keep blackout curtains or eye masks handy to block unfamiliar light

• Use a white noise machine or fan to muffle new or unexpected sounds

• Make sure you can easily access sleepwear, chargers, and nighttime essentials

• Unpack a comfortable blanket or weighted throw for added relaxation

After a move, your body and mind need time to recover — and a quality mattress plays a critical role in that process. Lifting boxes, adjusting to a new routine, and navigating unfamiliar surroundings can be exhausting, making restful sleep more important than ever. A supportive mattress helps you relax, recharge, and bounce back faster, so you can feel at home and ready to take on each new day with energy and clarity.

If you’re ready to pair your new house with a new mattress, we’re ready to help. Say goodbye to sleepless nights and hello to deep, personalized comfort with Mattress Warehouse. Our innovative bedMATCH® system uses real sleep science to recommend the ideal mattress based on your body type, sleep habits, and support needs. Whether you sleep hot, prefer your side, or wake up feeling stiff, bedMATCH takes the guesswork out of finding the right fit. Visit your nearest Mattress Warehouse to try bedMATCH in-store — or take the quick online quiz to get matched from the comfort of your new home.