Whether you’re moving into your first place or you’ve moved several times before, it’s no secret that the move-in process can be quite extensive. From unpacking to organizing your layout, there’s a lot to accomplish. Don’t let this overwhelm you! Before you even get into the unpacking stage, there are a few minor tasks to take care of to ensure a smoother, easier move-in.

In this article, we’ll break down the four things you must do even before unpacking once you move in. 

1. Switch The Locks and Get Key Copies

Switching the locks is necessary and probably the first task to tick off your move-in list. Once you switch the locks, ensure you get copies of the keys made just in case. Replacing the locks is a top safety priority, as you do not know who may have an extra copy of the old keys to that lock. Having a few extra key copies made is perfect for emergencies and to give to close friends or family.

2. Inspect The New Space and Look For Anything That Needs Repairs

It’s important to do a thorough inspection around your new space, including its interior and exterior. Try locking doors, checking the light switches and looking into each room for any issues or areas that may need repairs. If the weather is warm, make sure the AC unit is free of dust and debris and even check on the furnace to see if its filter may need to be replaced. Examine the walls, doorways, ceilings and make sure there are no signs of water damage. 

3. Gather Essentials

Some supplies are essential to have, especially during move-in day. 

Bathroom supplies you should have include:

  • Toilet paper
  • Hand soap
  • Bathroom cleaners
  • Towels
  • Toothpaste

 

Kitchen supplies you should have include:

  • Paper towels
  • Dish soap

 

Laundry supplies you should have include:

  • Laundry detergent and fabric softener

4. Update Your Identification Cards

Whether you’re moving down the street or to an entirely new province, you have to change your address. This means that your driver’s license, health card and vehicle registration all need to be adjusted to reflect your new location. In Ontario, this information on your driver’s license must be updated within six days of your move and 30 days for your health card. 

5. Examine Breakable Items

Now that you’ve taken care of the previous four move-in priorities, you can begin to unpack. Start off with your most valuable, fragile and breakable items first. Verify that these items have arrived in good condition and have not been damaged during the move. If the item has been damaged, you should inform the moving company right away. 

Tippet Richardson are your professional Toronto movers for safe, cost-effective and punctual international, local, long-distance and cross border moving services. With over 90 years of experience, our reliability is of key importance to us and as Toronto’s best movers, we take care of everything from packing and loading to storage and delivery. Contact our professional movers for a seamless move.