The first day in your new home can be equal parts gratifying and busy. While you’ve finally crossed the finish line with endless boxes and using a residential moving service, in another sense the work of settling down in the house is just beginning. There will be a lot to accomplish, but it’s important not to overburden yourself or bring about unwanted stress. To keep focused and productive without getting overwhelmed, here is a list of the top four things to do on your first day in a new home.

4 Tasks to Do on Your First Day in a New Home

1. Connect With Utility Providers

Take an hour to get on the phone and get in touch with all your utility providers, including gas, water, electric, and internet. Let them know you’ve just moved in, and setup appointments for any equipment installations or meter readings if necessary. Connect your major appliances, such as the dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer. Getting these fundamentals taken care will enable you to hit the ground running and make it feel like home that much faster.

2. Take Care of Your Pets

Taking time to pause and acclimate your pets to the new home will pay dividends in the long run. You’ll notice that your pets will want to get familiar with their new surroundings. Don’t forget that this is an important psychological leap for them as well. They will likely be upset and disoriented by the uprooting, travel, and new environment. Provide them with food and water immediately. If you have a cat, it’s important to make a decision about where to setup the litter box. Alert the residential moving service staff to keep the pet supplies boxes easily accessible. If you have a dog, the same principles hold true. It’s important to set ground rules from the beginning so your pet isn’t confused by mixed expectations down the road.

3. Get the Kids Squared Away 

While kids will likely be swept up in the excitement of the new move, it’s important to be attentive to their needs during this important transition. Prepare extra snacks to have on hand. Make sure to have your child’s favorite book available so they can soothe themselves in those especially busy moments you may have. Introduce your kids to their new living space and make sure there’s a place where you can keep your eye on them, including a place for them to relax while you’re setting up your new home.

4. Inspect Important Boxes

It’s important to inspect your boxes as quickly as possible to ensure there was no breakage caused while undertaking residential moving services. The longer you delay this inspection, the less likely it will be for any moving company who may have worked that day to assume responsibility for the broken items. Separately, it is important to have set aside boxes labeled “emergency items” and get those unpacked first. Such items may include a toolset, flashlight, and cleaning supplies in one box. Other boxes may include healthy snacks, toiletries, bottled water, and juice that you’ll want on day one.

With over 15 years of moving service, Easy Moving & Freight is the right choice for all your residential moving services. Based in Union, KY, the professionals at Easy Moving & Freight will ensure safe and affordable relocation to your new home, whether you need local or long-distance moving services. Call (859) 393-1413 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website to learn more about their offerings.