Apartments in Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol,Tri-City, TN

All Important Kingsport, Bristol TN-VA, and Johnson City, TN Moving Checklist

While you are all excited to move in and get settled into your new apartment, it is extremely important that you don't get the proverbial cart before the horse by not inspecting the apartment thoroughly before moving in. This inspection, plus following a systematic approach to relocating, requires having a checklist of steps to follow. Before moving day you want to know that your new home is ready---air conditioning and heating systems work, hot water heater functions, doors open and close smoothly, locks function, and any other problems are corrected. Careful troubleshooting helps avoid headaches later. This includes having your security deposit tapped for damages or problems that existed prior to your move-in.

Start with a printed list of names, telephone numbers, directions and the order that steps must be completed. Coordinate your moving date with the moving company, the apartment complex, and any helpers you might need.

Check off your list as you arrange to have all utilities connected and transferred to your name. Electricity, gas, water, garbage, security system, television and internet should typically be on this list. If you are relocating to the Tri-City from another city, expect to pay deposits for utility connections. Get assurances that each connection will be done before move-in, but don't get upset if everything doesn't get done as it should. That's all part of moving.

Boxing up your belongings for the move is an excellent time to discard or put nonessential things into storage. Some apartments offer storage facilities, but there are relatively low cost storage companies that provide this service as well. Moving provides a good excuse to start fresh with less clutter. Box breakable items carefully, label boxes well, especially what room they need to go to in the apartment. This saves moving heavy boxes several times. If you ask around you can typically get used boxes for free from friends, grocery stores etc. This saves buying them from a moving company.

Packing for the move is also a good time to draw a diagram of the new apartment and decide just how you plan to arrange your furniture in the new place. It is wise to have measurements of the new apartment. That new couch you plan to buy just might not fit where you think it will.

Last but no less important is to contact the postal service to have your mail forwarded to your new address. You might also want to think about having your address changed on certain documents. Do you need renters insurance? It is a good time to weigh your personal situation thoroughly.