Moving Into An Apartment Checklist: Things To Know As An Immigrant
Moving into a new apartment is so exciting! But moving can also cause a lot of stress. Deciding what items you need to buy immediately and what items can wait, identifying utility providers, and managing the logistics of the move can be confusing and time consuming. One way to reduce that stress is to have a “moving into an apartment” checklist.
We've compiled a checklist to help you make sure you have everything you need to start life in your new home. The good news is, renting an apartment as an immigrant can be challenging, so you’ve already done the hardest part! Getting things for your new apartment should be fun.
Items needed for moving into an apartment
A first apartment checklist is a bit different than a moving into a new apartment checklist. Those who have lived away from their parents may already have some of the things needed to furnish an apartment. You may have left behind a lot of things when you moved to the U.S. but likely still have at least some of the things you’ll need in your new apartment.
In that case, take stock of what you have as you pack and compare them against our apartment checklist. Most apartments don’t offer things like basements, attics, or storage space, so you don’t want to end up with duplicate items or spend money on them, of course.
What to get for a new apartment right away
Buying everything you need for your first apartment immediately isn’t practical. It would be expensive, and you might choose items that won’t fit into the space or just don’t work with the space.
It’s better to buy some necessary items before or just after you move in and then take your time to accumulate others. My first apartment checklist was short a few critical items, which become extra crucial when you don’t have them! These are some things you should have just before or just after you move. If you buy them before, be sure to mark the box they’re in so you can find them right away.
Cleaning supplies including paper towels, a multi-purpose cleaner, trash bags, dish soap, a toilet brush, a plunger, a broom, and a dustpan.
Trash cans, kitchen, and bathroom.
Toiletries like toilet paper, soap, personal care items, and basic first aid items including Band-Aids, rubbing alcohol, over-the-counter medications like pain relievers.
Bedding.
Towels, kitchen, and bath. Wash and dishcloths.
Shower curtain, hooks, and rod.
Basic cooking supplies including pots, pans, silverware, cooking utensils, a strainer, dishes, glasses, and mugs.
Basic furniture including a bed, sofa, dresser, dining table, and chairs.
Curtains or blinds.
There is no reason to buy all of these things new from a store. Check out sites like Nextdoor and Facebook Marketplace, thrift stores, and yard sales. You’ll often find brand new or hardly used household items for a fraction of the cost in a store. Let friends, family, and co-workers know you’re moving into a new apartment. People are often happy to get rid of extra items taking up space in their homes and give them to you for free!
A checklist for your first apartment
Moving into your first apartment checklists can be broken down into two categories; things you need to buy and things you need to do. These are some things you need to do:
Collect free boxes from places like grocery and liquor stores. Most will happily give them to. Liquor store boxes are exceptionally sturdy and perfect for your heavy items.
Collect old newspapers for free packing material.
Turn on utilities: If the water, electric, gas, trash pick up, etc., are already on, they need to be transferred from the landlord’s name to your name. Don’t forget WiFi.
Buy renters insurance. This is essential and protects you and your property. Renters insurance is very affordable.
Take photos and measurements of each room before moving in, and be sure to document any existing damage. Email these photos to the landlord so you aren’t held responsible for damage you didn’t cause.
Clean: A new apartment should be spotless, but that isn’t always the case. Cleaning before you move anything in is easier than cleaning around your belongings.
Congratulations!
Welcome to your new home! Upwardli is here to help you create a great financial life. We can help guide you to the resources you need to build and manage your finances in America successfully.
