New Home? Here’s the Only Move-In Checklist You’ll Need

So, you’re about to move into a new place—exciting, right? A chapter full of fresh starts, new routines, and maybe even a little chaos. Whether you’re heading into your first apartment or upgrading to a bigger space, there’s one thing that can make the entire process much smoother: a solid move-in checklist. 

Not only will it keep you organized, but it’ll also ensure you’re documenting everything correctly, from the condition of your new place to all the essentials you’ll need to feel settled in.

Let’s dive into this ultimate move-in checklist with all the must-have items for your new space.

Why a Move-In Checklist is Important

Before you even start loading the moving truck, it’s important to have a game plan. A move-in checklist helps you keep track of what to bring, what to buy, and what to check once you arrive. 

No, it’s not just a to-do list. It’s a way to stay organized through the moving madness and make sure nothing slips through the cracks.

Beyond just staying organized, a checklist can also help you identify problems early on. That leaky faucet? Those creaky closet doors? If you’re prepared, you can take note of those things right away instead of discovering them weeks later. 

Before Moving Day: Getting Ready for Your Big Day

A successful move doesn’t start on moving day. It starts in days and weeks leading up to it. Getting organized ahead of the move in date can save you from last-minute stress and help everything go off without a hitch. Here’s how to get ready:

• First, make sure you update your address. Let your bank, credit card companies, subscriptions, and utility providers know where you’re going. This will save you from unpleasant surprises later on; 
• Next, take a moment to photograph your valuable items. Whether it’s electronics, furniture or heirlooms, documenting their condition before the move gives you peace of mind and helps in case anything gets damaged;
• Begin packing your non-essentials like off-season clothing, books, or decor you won’t need immediately. Spreading out your packing in stages makes the entire process feel less overwhelming;
• Gather important documents such as Lease or mortgage papers, ID, insurance documents, and a copy of the move-in checklist of course;
• Schedule movers or a truck rental. Book professional movers in advance or reserve a moving truck if you’re doing the DIY route;
• Finally, arrange for your utilities to be transferred to your name on your move-in day. You don’t want to be without power or water on your first day.

A little preparation now can go a long way when it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make the big move.

First-Day Essentials: What You’ll Need Immediately

Let’s face it: on the first day in your new house, you probably won’t feel like rummaging through every box to find your toothbrush or your phone charger. That’s why we always recommend packing a separate “essentials box” with everything you’ll need in the first couple of days.

This box should include the basics: toilet paper, hand soap, a couple of towels, your favorite snacks, and some paper plates and cups for those first meals before your kitchen is fully set up. Don’t forget phone chargers, a tool kit, and basic cleaning supplies. And of course, if you can pack your bedding separately so you can crash comfortably at the end of a long day.

Having these items easily accessible will help you feel more settled and less overwhelmed on day one.

In addition, before you start unpacking your stuff, take a little time to clean the space. Even if it looks spotless, it’s better to be safe than sorry. You never know how thorough the last cleaning was. Focus on high-traffic and high-touch areas:

• Wipe down kitchen cabinets, counters, and appliances
• Clean inside drawers, closets, and shelves
• Sanitize bathroom surfaces: sinks, toilets, and tubs 
• Mop hard floors and vacuum carpets
• Dust ceiling fans, vents, and baseboards

Starting fresh in a clean new space will make everything else feel that much smoother. 

Room-by-Room Checklist: What You’ll Need

Once the dust settles, it’s time to start unpacking with intention. Organizing room by room allows you to focus your energy and build each space into something that feels personal and functional.

Living Room Essentials

The living room often becomes the heart of the home. Start by setting up a cozy seating area—a sofa or futon can serve as both a place to relax and a temporary guest bed. A coffee table adds character and function, and a few lamps can bring warmth to the space.

If you love movie nights or game nights, setting up a TV or projector can instantly add comfort to your routine. Don’t feel pressured to get everything in place at once—some larger furniture or seasonal decor can be stored safely in a storage unit until you’re ready for them. 

Here’s what you’ll need for your living room to start with:

• Area rug
• Chairs/additional seating
• Coffee table
• Couch or Sofa
• End tables
• Extra lighting
• Plants
• Speakers
• Streaming devices
• Television
• Throw blankets
• Throw pillows
• TV stand

Kitchen Essentials

The kitchen is where function meets personality. Before you go all-in on appliances and gadgets, start with the basics: a set of dishes, cups, or silverware. One or two pots and pans are enough to get you started, and a coffee maker or electric kettle can make mornings easier. 

Check that your appliances are in good working order. Open the fridge, test the oven, and note any needed repairs. If you’re starting from scratch, a small table or bistro set can transform even the tiniest nook into a dining space. 

Take your time stocking the pantry. Begin with the essentials, like salt, pepper, cooking oil, and a few quick meals, and build from there. Keep some paper goods around for the first few days while you unpack everything else.

Here’s the list of essentials:

• Aluminum foil
• Baking tray
• Blender
• Bottle and can opener
• Coffee maker
• Colander
• Cooking utensil set
• Crockpot
• Cutting boards
• Dining room table and chairs
• Dish drying rack
• Dish soap
• Dishtowels
• Drinking glasses
• Dishwasher pods
• Food storage containers
• Knife set with chef’s knife
• Large and small plates
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Oven mitts
• Paper plates
• Paper towels and holder
• Parchment paper
• Placemats
• Plastic or other food wrap
• Salt and pepper shakers
• Silverware set
• Sponges
• Trash bags
• Trash can
• Wine opener
• Wax or parchment paper
• Ziploc bags

Bedroom Essentials

After a long moving day, nothing beats a good night’s sleep. Focus on getting your bed set up early, complete with a bed frame, mattress, and fresh bedding. Curtains or blinds are important for both privacy and comfort, especially if you’re in a busy neighborhood. 

As you organize your clothing and accessories, inspect your closet space. Make sure the doors slide properly, shelves are secure, and there’s enough space for your storage needs. Adding a few personal touches, like framed photos or a small bookshelf, can make your bedroom feel truly yours.

Here are the bedroom essentials:

• Bed frame
• Bed pillows
• Bedspread/Comforter
• Bedside table
• Blankets
• Curtains
• Desk
• Desk lamp
• Dresser
• Fan
• Hangers
• Mattress
• Mirror
• Nightstand
• Pillows
• Pillowcases
• Sheets
• Space heater
• Trash bin
• TV Stand
• Window coverings

Bathroom Essentials

Your bathroom is one of the first spaces you’ll need fully functional. Be sure to pack a shower curtain, bath mat, towels, toilet paper, and basic toiletries like soap, shampoo, and toothpaste. Don’t forget a plunger, toilet brush, and any cleaning supplies you’ll need to keep things fresh. Having these items ready on day one makes settling in a lot more comfortable. So, here are the bathroom essentials:

• Bathroom cleaning supplies
• Bath towels
• Hand soap
• Hand towels
• Plunger
• Small trash bags
• Small trash bin
• Shower curtain and hooks
• Shower mat / Bath mat
• Toothbrush holder
• Toilet brush
• Toilet paper
• Toiletries
• Weight Scale

Other Essential Household Items You Might Forget

While you’re busy setting up the main rooms, it’s easy to overlook general household items that every home needs. Think things like a vacuum, broom, or map. Not very glamorous but very much needed. Lightbulbs, batteries, extension cords, and a laundry basket, also top the list of things that always seem to go missing when you need them most.

A few storage bins or organizers can make a world of difference, especially for closets, under-bed areas, and bathroom shelves. And if space is tight, storing off-season items or bulky gear at a storage unit can keep your home clutter-free and comfortable from the start.

Safety and Security: Keeping Your Home Safe

Feeling safe at your new apartment or house is just as important as feeling comfortable. Start by checking the smoke detectors—are they working? Do they need new batteries? The same goes for carbon monoxide detectors, which are crucial if your home uses gas appliances. We also recommend keeping a small fire extinguisher in the kitchen and checking that all doors and windows have secure locks. It’s also a good idea to take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with emergency exits, circuit breakers, and water shut-off valves. These small steps can give you a peace of mind, especially in those first few unfamiliar days.

Maintenance and Upkeep: Keeping Things Running Smoothly

It’s easy to get swept up in decorating and organizing, but taking care of your home means keeping an eye on routine maintenance. Before you get too settled, walk through the entire space and take photos of the condition of each room. This isn’t just helpful for rental property deposits, but it also gives you a baseline to refer back to if you spot any new issues later. 

Set reminders for simple seasonal tasks like replacing air fillers or checking the HVAC system. You’ll also want to keep track of small repairs, whether it’s a leaky faucet, or a loose cabinet handle. Starting off with a proactive mindset will help keep your new place running smoothly all year round.

Bonus Tip: Store What You Don’t Need (Yet)

Not everything needs to find a home right away. Whether you’re downsizing, upsizing, or just don’t have the closet space you need, My Storage Box is here to help. Our clean, secure, and waterproof units are perfect for keeping your items extra safe during the move in process. With our storage units with 24/7 access, video monitoring, and gated entry, you can focus on turning your apartment into a home without worrying about your stuff.

Ready to make the move? Call us at (580) 300-3006 or reserve your unit online today.

Final Thoughts

Moving can be a total chaos. Boxes everywhere, keys in the wrong pocket, and no clue where you packed your toothbrush. But with a solid first apartment checklist, you’ll make the transition to your new space a whole lot easier and stress-free.

Soon you’ll be in your fresh new home and creating a space that truly feels yours. Where you can relax, breathe, and cozy up with your loved ones.

So take a deep breath, pat yourself on the back, and don’t worry if not everything gets done on the first day. You’ve got time. And you’ve got this! 

College Student’s Guide to Stress-Free Summer Storage

When summer break rolls around, college students ask themselves, “What should I do with all my stuff?”

Whether heading home, taking on a summer internship, or preparing for a study abroad adventure, dragging everything with you isn’t practical or budget-friendly. That’s where summer self-storage comes in.

At My Storage Box, we understand students’ unique challenges during the summer transition. We offer reliable, affordable, and flexible storage solutions tailored to your needs. With these solutions, you can store smart, stress less, and focus on enjoying your break.

To make things even easier for you, we’ve created this quick guide to summer storage for college students. Here’s to a smooth move and stress-free summer!

Why Do College Students Need Summer Storage

College life comes with a surprising amount of stuff. From mini fridges and textbooks to bedding, clothes, electronics, and dorm decor, it all adds up quickly.

During the academic year, everything has its place. But when summer rolls around and it’s time to move out of dorms or campus housing, it suddenly needs a home. The last thing you want is to pack your car to the brim or pay to ship everything home, only to do it all over again when the fall semester starts. 

Summer self-storage offers a convenient, cost-effective alternative.

Here’s why many students choose it:

• Space efficiency – Dorms and apartments often contain a whole room’s furniture and personal items. A storage unit gives you the right temporary space without overpaying for an unused room.
• Convenience – Storing your belongings near campus makes move-out and move-in far simpler when the semester changes.
• Less clutter at home – Your family will appreciate not turning the guest room or basement into your summer storage zone.
• Flexibility for travel – If you’re studying abroad, taking a summer internship, or heading out of town, you’ll know your belongings are secure until you return.

No matter your reasons for using a student storage unit, storing your belongings near campus makes the transition smoother for you and your wallet. Instead of stressing over logistics, you can pack, store, or enjoy your break.

What to Look For in Summer Storage (Especially as a Student)

Finding storage looks different for everyone, especially if you’re a student. You have specific needs, and not all storage providers are set up to meet them. Here’s what to keep in mind when choosing the right college summer storage provider:

Flexible Rental Terms 

Life as a student is unpredictable. You might need storage for weeks, months, or the summer. Avoid facilities that lock you into long-term contracts or hidden fees. Look for providers offering month-to-month leases so you can adjust your storage term if your plans change. 

Student-Friendly Rates

Every dollar counts when you’re on a college budget. So, if you want to save up, look for providers that offer affordable pricing and seasonal promotions designed with students in mind. Compare prices between facilities to ensure you choose the best value for your buck.

Convenient Location 

You shouldn’t have to drive hours to store or pick up your belongings. Ideally, your facility should be close to campus or your summer housing. Proximity saves time and gas money but also makes last-minute trips easier.

Security You Can Trust 

Your things matter, and they deserve protection. Look for 24/7 video surveillance, gated access, and secure entry systems to ensure peace of mind while you’re away. Secure facilities prevent theft, vandalism, or unauthorized access, giving you peace of mind during summer break.

Clean, Well-Maintained Units

Dust, moisture, or pests can cause damage over a few months. If you’re storing electronics, wooden furniture, or other sensitive items, choose a provider that keeps units clean and dry.

Tips for Students Using Summer Storage

Summer storage can be a lifesaver if you plan it right. Here’s how to pack, protect, and organize your belongings so you return to everything exactly as you left it in the fall. No surprises, no stress.

Use Sturdy Boxes (And Label Everything)

For example, organization is key in life when packing your stuff for a storage unit. Opt for sturdy, stackable containers. Label each box by room or category so you’re not digging for your desk lamp come September. Pro tip: Label it on two sides and on the top so you can read it no matter how the box is stacked. Want to get extra fancy? Use color-coded tape for quick visual sorting. For example, blue for bedroom items. Trust us, these little hacks take minutes now but will save you time and frustration later.

Clean Before You Store

This one is a must, but most students forget it. Make sure you clean your fridge, vacuum your rug, and wipe down your furniture. Food crumbs or moisture left behind can attract pests or mold, and who wants to start the new semester with those unpleasant surprises? You can even go the extra mile and slip scented dryer sheets or cedar blocks into your boxes with clothes to keep them smelling fresh over the summer.

Disassemble When You Can

Take apart any furniture that can be disassembled. This saves space and prevents damage during transport or stacking. Place all screws, bolts, and small hardware in a labeled zip-top bag. Tape the bag securely to the furniture piece to which it belongs. Wrap dismantled parts in moving blankets or bubble wrap to prevent scratches. 

Pack by Accessibility

Think ahead: Will you need anything before the semester starts or even during summer if you’re nearby? Keep items you might need first (like your bike, books, or paperwork) near the front of the unit. Store long-term or seasonal items (like winter coats) in the back. Stack heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on top to prevent crushing and save yourself the hassle later on.

Use Small Self-Storage Units

As a student living in a dorm, you probably don’t need that much storage space. 5’x5’ or 5’x10’ units are typically perfect for students. These sizes are ideal for boxes of clothes and books, small appliances (like coffee makers or mini fridges), bedding and dorm furniture, sports equipment, or musical instruments. You’d be surprised how much can fit in a well-packed small unit. 

Share Units With Friends or Roommates

Splitting storage costs with a friend or roommate is a great way to simplify the move and save money. Many students do this and rent a medium-sized unit. Ensure you agree on everything beforehand, pack things up nicely, and set pickup expectations for the fall. That way, there are no misunderstandings. 

How My Storage Box Makes Summer Storage Stress-Free

Our service is designed around what students actually need:

• Fully online rental and instant access: No paperwork, no office visits. You can rent anytime, day or night, 24/7/365, right from your phone or laptop. Lease, pay, and get assigned in minutes. If it’s listed as available online, it’s genuinely available.
• Super-sturdy waterproof container units: We use storage containers built with solid steel, which is far stronger than typical sheet-metal storage units. They’re completely watertight, ideal for protecting your stuff from unpredictable weather. Plus, they are wind and rodent-tight, so you don’t need to worry about that either.
• Flexible, student-friendly terms: Only needing storage for a few months? No problem. Our service is month-to-month with no long-term commitments or hidden fees. 
• Convenient, anytime access: Need to grab something at odd hours? Go ahead. With 24/7/365 access, you can control when you visit your unit; no scheduling or office hours are required.
• Cutting-edge security features: Feel confident leaving your things with us. Our site is fully gated and fenced, with 24/7 video monitoring, keypad entry, and bright outdoor lighting.
• Transparent pricing: We keep things straightforward. There are no sign-up fees or security deposits, and you even get a free lock included when you rent. You can check out our available units here.

Step-by-Step: Your Summer Storage Game Plan

Two weeks before moving out:

• Reserve your My Storage Box storage space.
• Gather packing supplies (boxes, tape, labels, covers).

One week before move-out:

• Declutter (donate or sell what you don’t need).
• Start packing non-essentials.

Move-out day:

• Have items ready for drop-off.
• Double-check you’ve cleaned and labeled everything.

Over the summer:

• Relax, your belongings are safe and secure.

Move-in day (fall):

• Please pick up your stuff at My Storage Box whenever it works best for you.
• Unpack and settle in your space.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best summer storage option as a college student doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The right provider will offer affordability, convenience, and peace of mind – exactly what My Storage Box delivers.

By planning ahead, packing smart, and choosing a secure, student-friendly service, you can make summer storage a stress-free part of your move-out routine.

When the semester starts again, you’ll be glad you took the time to do it right. And you’ll be even happier when your belongings are exactly where you left them, ready for another great year.

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