Spring/Summer (and Covid-19) is upon us! Tis the season for relocation! Moving into a new place can be so exciting… or super stressful depending on how well you prepare.

I just moved into my new apartment… I’ve always hated moving. Now that I’ve moved cross country and back, I’ve finally got it down to a science! I’d like to share some helpful tips with you so you don’t end up stressed out and frustrated like I have been in the past!

Groceries… When moving into your new place, you should account for new perishables and spices. Before you know it, this can easily be a few hundred dollars!

Grocery Checklist

• Milk (Plant based or dairy)
• Eggs
• Sugar
• Pepper
• Salt
• Seasonings
• Salad dressing (Vinigarette dressings can double as seasoning for sautéed veggies or meat seasoning)
• Olive oil
• Cereal or Oatmeal (for breakfast on the go)
• Fresh or frozen produce
• Rice
• Noodles
• Canned goods
• Water filter (if your fridge doesn’t have a water dispenser)
• Meat or plant based substitutes

Eventually, the newness wears off and you have to clean the place. Scroll for the start up list of Cleaning Supplies.

Cleaning Supplies Checklist

• Bleach
• Windex (you can also use isopropyl alcohol on a tight budget!)
• Tilex
• Dish detergent or dishwasher capsules
• Mop and bucket
• Broom and dustpan
• Fabuloso (if you know, then you know)
• Kitchen sponge
• Laundry detergent
• Toilet bowl cleaner
• Shower cleaner
• Toilet bowl brush
• Shower scrubbing brush
• Napkins
• Microfiber cleaning cloths
• Cleaning gloves

I remember moving into my first apartment… I was sweaty from hauling boxes all day and couldn’t even shower without schlepping to my nearest retail store for a shower curtain! Check below for the home essentials checklist!

Home Essentials Checklist

• Shower curtain
• Bath mats
• Bath towels and washcloths
• Utensils
• Food prep knives
• Tongs
• Trash bins (kitchen, bathroom, office)
• Trash bags
• Bowls and plates
• Tupperware
• Can opener
• Pots and pans
• Drinkware

Of course, this list is not comprehensive and you can adjust to your needs. Depending on what you move out with, you may need to also stock hygiene supplies (deodorant, soap, shampoo, etc). The best stores to find these items are Dollar Tree, Walmart, Target and Amazon!

Additional Deposits, Fees, and Costs

Besides the rent deposit, utility providers may require deposits as well to establish accounts for the first time.

1. Electricity – Deposit usually $100 (some companies waive the fee if you enroll in autopay)
2. Cable/Internet – Deposit usually $50-$100 (some companies base deposit amount on credit score) Plus: Cost of router and modem if you don’t have your own that’s compatible with the network
3. Water – Deposit usually $20-$50 (If your complex has individual subunits, deposit may not be required)
4. Renter’s Insurance – Nowadays complexes require that renters maintain a renter’s insurance policy. In the event your neighbor has a plumbing issue and it ruins your property, you can file a claim against your neighbor, not the complex. These policies range from $85-$150 a year (a small discount if the policy is paid in full).
5. Update Driver’s License – States require that you keep your license updated (usually within 30 days); set aside $25-$50 for service fees and replacement ID card
6. Boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, mattress bags, etc.

Moving Supplies

I moved myself locally 30 minutes south but if you’re going to hire a moving company, make sure your items are packed for aggressive handling. If you’re moving cross country, the moving company gives you a quoted delivery date range—they’ll always deliver your items on the last day. Plan accordingly to be without certain items for the time being or sell on Offer Up and repurchase once you’re in your new state.

Don’t Forget To Update!

2 weeks before your move, you should begin to have your mail forwarded as it takes 7-10 business days for processing. Once you’re all settled in, update your billing address for your credit cards, bank accounts, auto loan, and other bills.

Declutter + Donate

When packing for a move, it’s the best time to go through all of your things and donate any items that are in great condition that you may not fit anymore or never reached for in your closet. Movers are expensive and charge based on the amount of stuff you have. It makes no sense to pay to haul unused items. Besides, there are folks ready and willing to love your donated goods! I was able to give away a trash bag full of clothing and a trash bag full of gently worn shoes (most pairs I’ve never worn or worn ONCE—can you imagine?!).

Are you moving anytime soon? Let me know in the comments below! Cheers to a happy home!