Blog October 26, 2022

The Ultimate New Apartment Checklist for Those Moving Across the Country

Posted in Moving 101
Hannah Michaelson

Hannah is a freelance relocation writer from NYC that has become an expert on packing and unpacking.

Are you in the process of moving to a new state? If so, you’ll want to make sure you have everything squared away before you go. Having an established new apartment checklist can be a huge help during this time. Below, we’ve outlined some of the most important items to check off your list when moving across the country. By taking care of these tasks ahead of time, you’ll minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition into your new home. Let’s get started!

New Apartment Checklist Will Speed Up Your Relocation Process

There are many benefits of having a checklist of things to buy for a new apartment during your relocation preparations. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that it can help you to stay organized for this move and on track as you prepare for the big life change in a new city.

A checklist can also help to ensure that you do not forget any important details or items that need to be taken care of before leaving for a new state. Additionally, a great apartment to-do list can help provide peace of mind and reduce stress levels, as you will know that everything is accounted for and taken care of. This will help you move stress-free.

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A brilliant benefit of having a checklist is that it can help you to budget your time and money more effectively. This is especially important when you have to think of many various costs, for example – the cost of professional moving services and state-to-state movers (which can sometimes include the cost of packing service, as well).

When you have a list of tasks that need to be completed before interstate moving, you can better allocate your moving budget to ensure everything gets done in a timely and efficient manner. By having a budgeted timeline for completing each task, you can avoid any last-minute scrambling or rushing, which can often lead to additional stress.

Person writing a new apartment checklist before moving interstate
With a detailed checklist by your side, your new apartment will be fully equipped

Kitchenware Should Be on Your Apartment Move-in Checklist

When planning a long-distance moving experience, you will most likely pack dishes and bring them to your new home. If the idea of packing glasses and plates seems horrible or you just can’t manage to bring it all with you on a relocation truck, you’ll need a list of essential kitchenware to buy after arriving at your home and unpacking after the move.

Let’s start with pots and pans – you’ll need at least a few pots and pans of various sizes to cook anything from simple grilled cheese to a multi-course meal. If you’re moving out for the first time, you may not have any cookware, so it’s important to put pots and pans on your checklist.

In addition to pots and pans, you’ll need some cooking utensils. These can include things like spatulas, tongs, wooden spoons, whisks, and more. You may already have some of these items, but if not, be sure to add them to your checklist. Also, a good set of knives is essential for any kitchen. You’ll need at least a few different types of knives, including a chef’s knife, a paring knife, and a bread knife, as well as a cutting board.

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What Can You Buy Later for the Kitchen?

The following items can be purchased later – a toaster, food processor, blender, wire whisk, cake pans, microwave, and serving china. To have a soft surface to stand on during dishwashing, you might also think about getting a rug to put next to the kitchen sink. Last but not least, storage containers are important for keeping food fresh and organized. You’ll need a variety of storage containers, including airtight containers for storing dry goods and perishable items, so be sure to add them to your checklist.

White kitchen counter with kitchen items displayed on it
If you want a lovely kitchen with all the necessary items, follow our tips

When It Comes to Things You Need for an Apartment, Proper Cleaning Supplies Are Definitely on the List

Living on your own is always an exciting time in life, and it brings many changes. There’s so much to think about as you’re getting settled in – which furniture to buy, how to decorate, what kind of housewares you need. One thing that’s often overlooked is stocking up on cleaning supplies. Not everyone knows what they need or where to start when it comes to choosing cleaning supplies for their home, so we’ve prepared some great relocation tips on this topic.

Tips for Getting Cleaning Supplies When You Move In

One of the most important things to consider when stocking up on cleaning supplies is the type of floors you have in your apartment. If you have a carpet, you’ll need a different kind of cleaner than if you have hardwood floors. Be sure to choose a cleaner that’s specifically designed for the type of floors you have. You don’t want to damage them by using the wrong kind of cleaner!

Another thing to think about is the size of your apartment. If you have a small space, you might not need as many cleaning supplies as someone with a larger one. It’s important to buy only what you need so that you’re not wasting money on products that you won’t use. Of course, your budget is always going to be a factor when shopping for anything – including cleaning supplies! There are a lot of great products on the market, but not all of them are necessary for everyone. Decide what’s most important to you and focus on those items first.

Cleaning may not be the most fun task in the world, but it’s important if you want to live in a comfortable and inviting space. By establishing a cleaning routine and stocking up on essential cleaning supplies, you can easily keep your apartment clean.

A person holding a bucket with cleaning supplies
Having proper cleaning supplies is essential for a lovely, clean home

What Are Some Bedroom Essentials You Shouldn’t Live Without?

When you move to another state, there are some essential pieces of furniture you need in order to make your bedroom a comfortable and functional space. Of course, the essential piece of furniture for your bedroom is a bed, and it should be comfortable and support your body well.

If you have back problems, you may want to invest in a memory foam mattress. You should also make sure to get a bed frame that is the right size for your mattress. A twin-size mattress will need a different frame than a king-size mattress. A cute little nightstand to put next to the bed is always a good idea, so be sure to add that to the list.

A dresser is another essential piece of furniture for your bedroom. It is important to find a dresser with enough drawers to hold all of your clothes and the right size for your room. If you have a lot of clothes, you may need more than one dresser or even supplement your current one with another storage solution, such as closet organizers.

If you happen to be moving to a small apartment, you might be worried about the lack of space for all the essentials. However, you have nothing to worry about – with good planning and some creative storage ideas, everything will be fine. Be sure to check out the video below for some great tips for decorating a small bedroom.

Check Out Some Bathroom Things You Need for a New Apartment

One of the most important things on your to-do list should be outfitting your bathroom with all the essentials. This may seem like a daunting task, but we’re here to help. Let’s start with the most important thing – you can never have too many bath towels. Choose a variety of sizes, including hand towels, bath sheets, and washcloths. You’ll also want to make sure you have a towel rack or hooks where you can hang them to dry.

Unless your bathroom has a glass shower door, you’ll need a shower curtain to keep water from spilling out onto the floor. When choosing a shower curtain, make sure it’s made of waterproof material and the right size for your shower or tub. You may also want to consider getting a liner to protect the fabric of your shower curtain from mildew and mold.

A shower caddy is essential for keeping all your shower essentials within reach while you’re in the shower. Look for one with multiple compartments and shelves so you can organize everything from shampoo and soap to razors and loofahs. You may also want to get a hanging shower caddy if you don’t have built-in shelves in your shower. Of course, the list of things to buy should contain a rug, a toilet brush, and a plunger.

Bathroom with green walls and large mirror
Get the items you need for the beautiful bathroom in your new home

Don’t Forget the Food

Stocking your fridge when you move into a new place is extremely important and can save you a lot of money, even if it might not seem like it at first. When you have food on hand, you are less likely to eat out or order in, which can quickly add up. Here’s what you should stock up in your new fridge:

  • Milk,
  • Bread,
  • Eggs,
  • Cheese,
  • Yogurt,
  • Fruit,
  • Vegetables,
  • Meat,
  • Fish.

Additionally, by having staple ingredients on hand, you can make simple meals at home rather than resorting to expensive takeout. And, if you have a well-stocked pantry, you can always whip up something tasty in a pinch, which is great for those nights when you just don’t feel like cooking. Here’s what food you need to get for your new pantry:

  • Rice,
  • Pasta,
  • Flour,
  • Sugar,
  • Salt,
  • Pepper,
  • Olive oil,
  • Vinegar,
  • Cooking spray,
  • Spices,
  • Canned goods,
  • Dry goods.

Where Can You Buy All the New Apartment Essentials?

There are many great places to shop for home decor when you are looking for household items to decorate your new apartment and give it a personal touch. With a little bit of shopping around, you are sure to find exactly what you need at a fair price that fits your budget. Here are some spots that offer excellent items for great prices – we’re sure you will find what you need in these.

IKEA

IKEA offers a wide variety of affordable and stylish home goods. Here you can find everything you need for your new apartment, all in one place. IKEA’s simple and modern designs are perfect for small spaces, and the quality of their furniture is very good.

Target

Target has a great selection of items for the home, including furniture, decor, and kitchenware. The prices here are very competitive, and they often have sales or discounts on home goods. You can find everything you need if you’re patient and look around for a bit.

Craigslist

Craigslist is a great resource for finding used furniture and home goods at a fraction of the cost. You can often find high-quality furniture for a fraction of the price you would pay for new. That’s why shopping on Craigslist is a great way to save money when furnishing your new apartment.

Amazon

Amazon has a great selection of furniture and home goods, including many items that are Prime eligible for free two-day shipping. You can often find good deals on furniture and home goods by shopping on Amazon. This is undoubtedly one of the most convenient ways to furnish your new apartment.

Just Follow the New Apartment Shopping List, and You Won’t Forget Anything

Ultimately, having a checklist for your new apartment before moving from state to state is a great way to stay organized, on track, and within budget. It can also help reduce your stress levels before moving interstate and give you peace of mind knowing that everything is accounted for. So be sure to create a checklist and refer to it often as you prepare for your big move!

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