Top 10 Things to Have for Moving into a New Apartment

Moving into a new apartment is both thrilling and overwhelming. Whether you're starting university, relocating for work, or setting out on a fresh chapter, getting it right requires smart preparation and the right supplies. This ultimate guide highlights the Top 10 Things to Have—including essential items like Moving Boxes, Tool Kit, Shower Curtain, and more—to ensure your move is smooth, safe, and stress-free.

1. Moving Boxes 📦

#movingboxes #packing #apartmentmove

Why They Matter

Boxes are the foundation of your move. They keep items organized, protect belongings, and simplify unpacking.

Types to Choose

• Medium (18"×14"×12"): Ideal for books, kitchenware

• Large (24"×18"×18"): Bedding, pillows

• Wardrobe boxes: Keep clothes wrinkle-free

• Specialty boxes: TVs, artwork, lamps

How to Use

Label boxes by room and contents ("Kitchen – Pots & Pans"). Pack heavier items in smaller boxes to avoid injury.

Pro Tips

Use local reuse networks (Freecycle, Buy Nothing Project) for free boxes. Reinforce bottoms with packing tape.

2. Packing Tape

#packingtape #moving

Why It Matters

A secure box means secure contents. Quality tape prevents collapsed boxes and broken items.

What to Look For

• Water-activated reinforced tape for heavy loads

• Heavy-duty clear packaging tape

• Dispenser with cutter for quick use

Pro Tips

Tape in an "H" pattern: along the center seam and lengthwise on all edges. Keep tape dispenser accessible at all times.

3. Furniture Dolly or Hand Truck

#furnituredolly #moving #apartmentmove

Why It Matters

Prevent back injuries and dropped sofas. A dolly makes moving heavy items feasible and safe.

Types

• 4-wheel furniture dolly: Great for heavy, odd-shaped pieces

• 2-wheel hand truck: Ideal for stacked boxes

• Appliance dolly: With straps for more security

Pro Tips

Use moving straps to distribute weight evenly. Wrap furniture in pads to protect walls during transit.

4. Mattress Protector

#mattressprotector #apartmentsetup

Why It Matters

Moving exposes mattresses to dirt, spills, and bed bugs. A protector keeps your bed clean and hygienic.

Features to Look For

• Plastic-lined protector for ultimate protection

• Zippered encasements for allergy control

• Breathable cotton layers

Pro Tips

Use a snug protector before wrapping or bagging your mattress to keep it clean during the move.

5. Tool Kit

#toolkit #apartmentsetup #organization

Why It Matters

Apartment moves involve assembly, disassembly, hanging art, and odd repairs. A toolkit saves time and frustration.

What’s Inside

• Screwdrivers (flat & Phillips)

• Multi-bit driver

• Hammer, pliers, utility knife

• Adjustable wrench, measuring tape, level

• Small hardware (nails, screws, wall anchors)

Pro Tips

Pack hardware in labeled bags. Keep an essential kit accessible for quick tasks on move-in day.

6. Cleaning Supplies

#cleaningsupplies #cleaning #newhome

Why It Matters

Even "clean" apartments can hide dust, grime, or pet hair from prior tenants. Clean before bringing in your stuff.

What to Bring

• All-purpose cleaner, bleach, disinfectant wipes

• Microfiber cloths, mop, sponge, toilet brush, trash bags

• Broom, vacuum (especially with HEPA)

• Gloves and window-cleaning tools

Pro Tips

Start with dusting and vacuuming. Clean kitchen and bathroom surfaces (cabinets, floors, drains) before furniture installation.

7. Furniture Pads / Moving Blankets

#furniturepads #moving #newhome

Why It Matters

Protect your belongings and walls during transit and placement.

Options

• Reusable moving blankets secured with stretch wrap

• Foam pads or bubble wrap for fragile items

• Cardboard sheets for corner protection

Pro Tips

Store pads at the apartment until furniture is positioned to prevent scratches during sheds, rolls, and tapping shifts.

8. Shower Curtain + Liner

#showercurtain #bathroom #apartmentsetup

Why It Matters

Every bathroom needs a liner and curtain—especially temporary apartments. Protect floors from water damage and mildew.

What to Choose

• Mold and mildew–resistant vinyl or polyester

• Weighted bottom or suction cups to prevent blowing

• Curtain rings and tension rod

Pro Tips

Wash before first use to remove chemicals. Hang the liner inside options to direct water flow.

9. Command Hooks and Strips

#commandhooks #organization #newhome

Why It Matters

Use them to hang coats, kitchen tools, and frames without nails—especially in rented spaces where patching is needed later.

Tips on Use

• Clean surfaces with alcohol before attaching

• Choose strips rated for your item’s weight

• Allow adhesive to cure for one hour before hanging

Pro Tips

Pair with acrylic trays, spice racks, or keychains to streamline storage and visibility.

10. Welcome Mat

#welcomemat #homedecor #newhome

Why It Matters

A welcome mat keeps dirt out and immediately feels like "home." It’s functional and decorative.

How to Choose

• Durable outdoor fiber with anti-slip backing

• Mid-century style or minimalist design

• Fits doorstep area (not blocking doors)

Pro Tips

Place an additional mat or slim shoe tray indoors to maintain entryway cleanliness.

🏠 Step-by-Step Moving-in Timeline

1. One Month Out

   • Assemble boxes and tape

   • Disassemble large furniture

   • Obtain moving/delivery dates

2. Two Weeks Out

   • Acquire dolly, supplies, mulch, and tools

   • Schedule cleaning, change address

3. One Week Out

   • Pack most items

   • Label moving boxes

   • Confirm utility transfers

4. Moving Day

   • Clean new apartment before unloading

   • Protect floors and install welcome mat

   • Unload essentials and setup bathroom

5. First Week

   • Build furniture, set up storage

   • Hang art with command hooks

   • Empty critical boxes first

6. Two Weeks In

   • Organize pantry/closet with labels

   • De-clutter and plan welcome host tasks

🧰 Quick Tips & Hacks

• Protect cords with zip ties

• Save packing paper from purchases

• Move plants carefully and water afterward

• Test outlets for fridge legality

• Plan bed setup first—essential for overnight

✅ Final Checklist

• Essential Items: Boxes, tape, dolly

• Protection & Repair: Mattress protector, pads, tool kit

• Cleaning & Setup: Cleaning kit, shower curtain

• Space & Comfort: Welcome mat, command hooks

🏡 Final Thoughts

Moving into a new apartment can be seamless and empowering with the right preparation and supplies. From sturdy moving boxes to organization tools like command hooks and a comfy welcome mat, you're setting yourself up for success. Take your time with setup, inject personality, and don’t forget to celebrate turning a blank space into home.