Moving into a new home is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. From packing up your belongings to setting up utilities, there are plenty of details to manage along the way. Whether you’re relocating across town or making a big move to Gresham, these moving tips will help you stay organized and stress-free.
1. Start Planning Early
Give yourself plenty of time to prepare. Create a moving checklist at least a month in advance so you don’t miss important steps like scheduling movers, updating your address, or transferring utilities.
2. Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is the perfect time to donate, sell, or toss items you no longer need. Less clutter means fewer boxes to move and more space in your new apartment.
3. Label Everything Clearly
Label boxes by room and contents so unpacking is quick and easy. Use color-coded tape or sticky notes to keep everything organized.
4. Pack an Essentials Box
Keep a box of everyday necessities—like toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and phone chargers—with you during the move. That way, you’ll have what you need right away when you arrive.
5. Protect Fragile Items
Use bubble wrap, towels, or clothing to cushion fragile items. Be sure to mark boxes as “fragile” so movers know to handle them carefully.
6. Take Photos of Electronics
Snap photos of cable connections before unplugging your TV, Wi-Fi router, or gaming console. This makes reassembly much easier at your new place.
7. Schedule Utilities Ahead of Time
Ask questions during your leasing process to find out which utilities you’ll need to set up on your own. Services like internet, electricity, and water are important to confirm before move-in so everything is ready when you arrive.
8. Keep Important Documents Handy
Store passports, IDs, medical records, and rental documents in a folder you keep with you, not in a moving truck.
9. Hire Movers (or Recruit Friends) Early
If you’re using professional movers, book them in advance to lock in the date and avoid last-minute stress. If friends are helping, give them plenty of notice (and promise pizza as a thank-you).
10. Do a Final Walkthrough
Before leaving your old place, double-check closets, cabinets, and drawers to make sure nothing gets left behind.
Don’t Forget the Little Things
It’s easy to focus on big items like furniture and electronics, but the small household essentials are often the most forgotten—and the hardest to live without on your first night. Here are a few common items to add to your checklist:
Kitchen Essentials
- Trash can & bags
- Dish soap, sponge, scrubber
- Paper towels or kitchen towels
- Can opener, bottle opener, corkscrew
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Food storage containers, aluminum foil, plastic wrap
- Basic condiments/spices (salt, pepper, cooking oil)
Bathroom Essentials
- Shower curtain & rings
- Bath mat
- Toilet brush & plunger
- Hand soap
- Towels (bath, hand, washcloths)
- Toilet paper (easy to forget until too late!)
Having these on hand makes your new apartment instantly more comfortable and saves you a late-night trip to the store.
Wrapping Up Your Move
Moving doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation and these essential tips, you can enjoy a smooth transition into your new home. If you’re searching for a fresh start in Gresham, AVIVA Apartments offers modern layouts, convenient amenities, and a welcoming community—the perfect place to settle in.
Schedule a tour today and see why AVIVA Apartments is a great place to call home.