The professional movers from M. Dyer & Sons in Honolulu, HI, know that moving—whether cross country or around the corner—can often be an anxious experience. Because of this, they want to help you unload some of that stress by offering a few helpful unpacking tips.

When all your belongings are off the truck, here are four things you can do right away to ensure a safe and easy transition into your new home:

• Take Photos: It’s always a good idea when moving into a new home or apartment to take some photos of the empty rooms before unpacking your belongings. This is especially important for those renting a property, as there may be existing issues when you move in that you’ll want to make note of.
• Change Locks: This might seem a little absurd to some, but you never know who had keys to your new home or apartment while the previous owners lived there. Ask your real estate agent or landlord if the locks were changed after the last tenants moved out; if they weren’t, change them yourself.
• Trash Pickup: While unpacking your belongings, it’s always useful to know where to dispose of any trash, rather than let it pile up in your home. As soon as you get to your new location, inquire about where to leave your trash and when trash pickup is; ask your neighbors or a landlord to fill you in.
• Check Belongings: When unpacking, it’s essential to check all of your belongings for signs of damage. The sooner you do so, the sooner you can contact your insurance company and file a claim or report the damage to whoever is responsible. Of course, the easiest way to avoid any damage is to work with a dedicated moving company who will treat your belongings with all the appropriate care.