Moving into a new home is a major milestone—but if the space isn’t ready when you arrive, it can turn a smooth move into a stressful scramble. Taking time to prepare your new home before moving day helps you avoid surprises and settle in faster. From setting up utilities to checking for safety issues, a little prep goes a long way.

At Joyce Van Lines, we’ve helped thousands of customers transition into their new homes with confidence. Here are 5 essential steps to get your home move-in ready before the boxes arrive.

1. Confirm Utilities Are Activated

Your first night in a new home should be comfortable—not spent in the dark or without running water. Contact utility providers at least a week in advance to set up:

• Electricity and gas
  
• Water and sewer
  
• Internet and cable
  
• Trash/recycling services
  
• Heating and air conditioning

Confirm service start dates and, if possible, test everything before move-in day.

2. Clean the Home While It’s Empty

The best time to clean your home is before your belongings arrive. Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, focus on:

• Floors and carpets
  
• Cabinets, closets, and drawers
  
• Bathrooms and kitchen surfaces
  
• Windows and baseboards

A clean slate helps make the space feel like home right away—and saves you from cleaning around furniture later.

3. Inspect for Repairs or Safety Issues

Before move-in day, take a walkthrough to check for any urgent repairs or hazards. Look for:

• Leaks, electrical issues, or damaged fixtures
  
• Missing or non-functional smoke/carbon monoxide detectors
  
• Loose railings, floorboards, or trip hazards
  
• Signs of pests or water damage

Taking care of these problems before move-in makes unpacking safer and smoother.

4. Measure Entryways and Plan Furniture Placement

Avoid last-minute surprises by measuring your new home’s:

• Doorways and staircases
  
• Hallways and tight corners
  
• Room dimensions

Knowing what will fit—and where—lets your movers place furniture efficiently. Joyce Van Lines’ crews can assist with proper placement and setup as part of our white-glove moving services.

5. Secure the Property and Stock Essentials

For peace of mind, make sure your new home is secure:

• Change or rekey the locks
  
• Test the alarm system, if you have one
  
• Check outdoor lighting and install bulbs if needed

Also, stock a few essentials in advance to make the first 24 hours easier:

• Toilet paper, cleaning supplies, basic tools
  
• Bottled water and snacks
  
• First-aid kit and phone chargers
  

Final Thoughts: Be Move-In Ready

By taking these 5 simple steps before moving day, you’ll be setting yourself up for a smooth, stress-free start in your new home. A little preparation can save you time, energy, and hassle. At Joyce Van Lines, we’re here to support every step of your move—from planning and packing to unpacking and settling in. We don’t just deliver your belongings—we deliver peace of mind.

Planning your next move?

Contact Joyce Van Lines today to get a free quote and experience the confidence of moving with a professional, full-service team.