Moving into a new apartment is a mix of excitement and, let’s be real, a little bit of stress. You’re starting a new chapter, but getting every detail right can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in. This guide is your ultimate resource to ensure a smooth and organized transition into your beautiful new place at Story Sanford. With this comprehensive list, you’ll have everything you need to make your new space feel like home from moving day forward.
Key Takeaways
- Plan Ahead: Weeks before your move, forward your mail, contact utility providers, and book your moving company.
- Pack a First-Night Box: Have an essential item box with toiletries, a shower curtain, chargers, snacks, and toilet paper for your first 24 hours.
- Inspect and Clean First: Before you unpack, do a thorough walk-through of your new apartment, document its condition, and clean the kitchen and bathrooms.
- Stay Organized: Use our room-by-room apartment moving checklist to track your progress and ensure you have everything you need.
- Settle In: Once the boxes are in, explore the fantastic amenities at Story Sanford and the surrounding Sanford, FL area to make your new space truly feel like home.
Before the Move: Your Pre-Move-In Countdown
A successful move starts long before the moving truck arrives. This chronological guide will walk you through the essential steps, making sure nothing falls through the cracks. Following these tips for moving will help you make your move seamless.
4-6 Weeks Before Moving Day
- First things first, confirm your official move-in date and time with our team. This is also a great time to review your lease agreements and ask any final questions. Feel free to contact us if anything is unclear.
- Research and book a reputable moving company. If you prefer a DIY approach, check out U-Haul rentals near Sanford, FL to reserve your truck. Booking early, especially during peak seasons, is key.
- Begin the decluttering process. Go through your closets, drawers, and storage spaces. Create three piles: keep, donate, and toss. A local thrift store like the Goodwill on WP Ball Blvd is a great place to drop off gently used items.
2-3 Weeks Before Moving Day
The Week of Moving Day
- Pack your “first 24 hours” essentials box. This is one of the most important moving tips you’ll get. This box will be your lifeline on moving day, containing everything you need for the first night.
- Confirm all arrival times and details with your moving company.
- Make a trip to the bank to get some cash. You’ll want to have it on hand to tip your moving crew for their hard work after a long day of moving.
- If you’re bringing your own refrigerator, make sure to defrost the freezer and clean it out at least 24 hours before the move.
The Ultimate Apartment Move-In Checklist: Room by Room
To make moving into a new apartment feel less chaotic, we’ve broken down this first apartment checklist by room. This scannable apartment moving checklist will help you track all the apartment essentials and things you need.
| Item Category | Must-Have Items | Nice-to-Have Items |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen | Pots & pans, basic utensils, plates, cups, silverware, cleaning supplies, trash can. | Microwave, toaster, blender, cutting boards, food storage containers, dish rack. |
| Bedroom | Mattress, bed frame, sheets, pillows, comforter, hangers. | Nightstand, dresser, decorative pillows, full-length mirror, blackout curtains. |
| Bathroom | Shower curtain & liner, towels, toilet paper, soap, plunger, trash can. | Bath mat, toothbrush holder, scale, storage caddies, air freshener. |
| Living Room | Sofa or other primary seating, basic lighting. | Coffee table, entertainment center, area rug, throw blankets, wall art. |
| Cleaning | All-purpose cleaner, sponges, paper towels, vacuum or broom, trash bags. | Mop & bucket, specialty cleaners (glass, wood), duster, cleaning gloves. |
The “First 24 Hours” Essentials Box
- Toiletries (soap, toothbrush, toothpaste)
- Toilet paper and a roll of paper towels
- A shower curtain and rings (a shower after moving is a must!)
- Phone chargers and a portable speaker for some moving-day tunes
- Basic toolkit with a screwdriver, hammer, and box cutter
- Any necessary medications and a basic first aid kit
- Important documents like your lease, movers’ contract, and personal IDs
- Pet food, water bowls, and a favorite toy if you have a furry friend
Kitchen and Dining Essentials
- A basic set of pots and pans and cooking utensils
- Dishes, bowls, and silverware for at least two people
- Coffee maker and mugs for that much-needed morning caffeine
- Trash can and recycling bin
- Basic cleaning supplies like all-purpose spray, sponges, and dish soap
Our spacious kitchens at Story Sanford are perfect for trying new recipes once you’re settled.
Bedroom Essentials
- Your mattress and bed frame
- A set of sheets, a comforter, and at least one pillow
- Plenty of hangers for the closet
- Curtains or blinds for privacy on your first night
- A couple of decorative throw pillows to make it feel cozy right away
Bathroom Essentials
- Bath towels and hand towels
- A soft bath rug
- A plunger and toilet brush
- A small wastebasket
For more ideas on organizing your new space, our apartment spring cleaning checklist has some great tips.
Living Room & General Furniture
- Comfortable seating like a sofa or a couple of armchairs
- A small table and chairs for dining
- At least one floor or table lamp for lighting
- Any other furniture for your apartment that you need to make it comfortable and functional
Moving Day & Your First Week at Story Sanford
You made it! The boxes are here. Follow these steps to make your first day and week in your new home as smooth as possible.
What to Do on Moving Day
- Before a single box comes inside, do a walk-through. Use a move-in checklist form to note the condition of appliances, walls, and floors. Take pictures and videos for your records.
- Direct your movers (or friends) on where to place boxes and large furniture. Putting things in the right room now saves you a headache later.
- Assemble your bed first. After a long day of moving, you’ll be so thankful to have a comfortable place to crash.
- Unpack your essentials box. Set up the bathroom with the shower curtain and toilet paper so it’s ready to use.
Before you unpack, check that all appliances are working, test all electrical outlets, look for any leaks under sinks, ensure all windows and doors lock securely, and document any pre-existing scuffs or damage on your move-in condition form.
Settling Into Your New Home
- Don’t try to do it all at once. Unpack one room at a time, starting with the kitchen or bedroom, to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Take a break and explore your new community. Check out the pool, fitness center, and resident lounge to see all that Story Sanford has to offer.
- Get to know your new neighborhood! Find your new go-to spot for dinner by checking out our guide on where to eat in Sanford, FL.
FAQs about Moving Into a New Apartment
What to check in an apartment before moving in?
Before you unpack, check that all appliances are working, test all electrical outlets, look for any leaks under sinks, ensure all windows and doors lock securely, and document any pre-existing scuffs or damage on your move-in condition form.
What to do the first day in a new apartment?
Your first day should focus on setting up your immediate comforts. Clean the bathroom and kitchen surfaces, assemble your bed, unpack your “first 24 hours” box, and order takeout from a local Sanford restaurant to relax after your long day of moving.
What are the basic apartment essentials?
The most essential items are those for sleeping, hygiene, and basic cleaning. This includes a mattress, bedding, a pillow, a shower curtain, toilet paper, soap, towels, and some basic cleaning supplies.
What to clean first in a new apartment?
Always start by cleaning the kitchen and bathroom. Wipe down all countertops, clean the inside of the refrigerator and cabinets before putting kitchen stuff in them, and scrub the toilet and shower.
Welcome Home to the Apartment of Your Dreams
Moving into your first apartment or your next one can feel like a huge task, but this checklist can help make your move a resounding success. The team at Story Sanford is thrilled to welcome you to the community and is here to help you settle into a new apartment!
Your apartment of your dreams is waiting. Explore our spacious floor plans at Story Sanford today! Have more questions? Contact the Story Sanford leasing team for more information.