Moving-In Checklist (Palm Beach, Martin & St. Lucie): From Keys to “Feels Like Home”

New keys, new rhythms. This moving-in checklist turns chaos into a calm, step-by-step plan—before the truck arrives, on moving day, and in the first 30 days—so you settle fast in Southeast Florida.

I can sync your movers, elevators/COIs, utilities, HOA/condo approvals, and closing dates into one timeline—plus give you local vendor recs (locksmiths, cleaners, painters).

1) 6–8 Weeks Out — Plan, Budget, Book

  • Scope & budget: Create an inventory (flag fragile/oversized items) and set a realistic budget. Interstate moves often average around $4k+, locals ~$2k+ depending on size/services.

  • Shortlist movers: Get 3 binding or not-to-exceed quotes (in-home/virtual survey). Verify USDOT/MC on FMCSA, ask for cargo/liability coverage options.

  • Dates & approvals: If you’re in a condo/HOA, book move windows, elevator, and COI (Certificate of Insurance).

  • Purge 25%: Donate/sell bulky items—you’ll lower weight (and cost).

2) 4–5 Weeks Out — Paperwork & Providers

  • Change of address: USPS, banks, insurance, subscriptions.

  • Utilities: Schedule power, water, trash, gas, internet to start 1 day before you arrive.

  • Insurance: Line up homeowners/wind and flood (if applicable) effective on closing; ask about wind-mit credits and alarm discounts.

3) 2–3 Weeks Out — Pack the Smart Way

  • Supplies: 50–75 boxes is typical for a 3-bed. Add wardrobe boxes, bubble wrap, tape.

  • Color-code by room: Stickers on boxes and door frames = faster unload.

  • Essentials box (carry with you): IDs, meds, chargers, two outfits, toiletries, basic tools, towels, linens, snacks, pet gear, kids’ night-one kit.

  • Photos & serials: Snap electronics hookups and big furniture before disassembly.

4) Week Of — Final Prep

  • Confirm everything: Movers, elevator/COI, parking, shuttle/long-carry fees.

  • Deep clean & service: Pre-arrival clean; schedule AC filter change and pest service for day one.

  • Cashier’s checks/tips: Know payment terms; avoid large cash deposits to anyone.

5) Moving Day — Control the Chaos

  • Walk-through with crew chief: Note existing dings; point out fragile items and where boxes go.

  • Inventory check-off: Match tag numbers as items load/unload.

  • Kid/pet plan: Arrange care so hallways stay clear.

  • Final sweep: Check cabinets, attic, garage, behind doors—then meter photos and thermostat off.

6) First 72 Hours — Safety, Comfort, Connectivity

  • Re-key & codes: New locks/garage remotes; change smart lock/app passwords.

  • Detectors & shutoffs: Test smoke/CO, find water main, gas, and breaker; label panels.

  • Wi-Fi & work corner: Get online; set up a basic workspace.

  • Hurricane readiness (FL-specific): Locate shutters/impact panels, check generator plug/test, stock a small storm kit (flashlights, batteries, water).

7) First 2 Weeks — Settle Systems

  • Utilities & billing: Confirm autopay/e-bills; set leak alerts if available.

  • Security: If installing a system, ask your insurer about discounts for monitored alarm/cameras.

  • Trash & recycling: Get pickup days; store bins off-view if your HOA requires it.

  • Service pros: Shortlist plumber, electrician, HVAC, handyman and save contacts.

8) First 30 Days — Legal & Local

  • Address updates: Driver’s license, voter registration, car insurance, employer/payroll, tax accounts.

  • Homestead exemption (FL primary homes): Mark your calendar for county deadlines.

  • Schools & routes: Register students, test drop-off commute at bell times.

  • Meet the neighbors: Learn gate etiquette, amenity rules, and local groups.

  • Maintenance calendar: Quarterly AC filters, gutter checks, irrigation schedule, pest control cadence.

Room-by-Room Unpack Priorities

  • Kitchen first: Coffee, basics, one full dinner setup.

  • Bedrooms: Beds built, linens on—sleep well night one.

  • Bathrooms: Towels, toiletries, shower curtain, meds.

  • Living spaces: Power strips, TV mount, internet test; boxes can wait.

Common Gotchas (and easy fixes)

  • Elevator/COI misses: Book both ends (old + new).

  • Long-carry surprises: Share access photos with mover to avoid day-of fees.

  • Insurance gaps: Confirm start dates and coverage levels; add HO-6/loss assessment if a condo.

  • HOA timing: Some approvals take days to weeks—don’t schedule movers before you’re cleared.

Quick Stats (context for your plan)

  • Moving is consistently ranked among the most stressful life events—planning reduces it dramatically.

  • ~35M+ Americans move annually; only a slice use full-service movers—DIY is common for local moves, while interstate complexity favors licensed carriers.

  • Decluttering ~25% of household items often saves hundreds on packing/time.

30/60/90-Day Timeline (At a Glance)

  • Days 1–30 (Before Move): Quotes (binding/not-to-exceed) • COIs/elevators • Utilities overlap • Declutter 25% • Pack non-essentials • Insurance in force

  • Days 31–60 (Move Window): Essentials box ready • Walk-through + inventory • Re-key • Detectors & shutoffs • Wi-Fi/security online

  • Days 61–90 (Settle): Address changes • Homestead filing (if primary) • Service pros scheduled • Maintenance calendar • Meet the neighborhood

FAQs (Fast & Practical)

Binding vs. non-binding estimates?
Choose binding or binding-not-to-exceed to cap surprises; avoid vague phone ballparks.

Is Full Value Protection worth it?
If you have modern electronics or high-value items, yes—basic $0.60/lb won’t replace them.

When should I schedule movers?
After HOA/condo approval and elevator confirmation—then stack your closing, keys, and truck carefully.

What should I set up first?
Locks, detectors, water shutoff, Wi-Fi, AC, then kitchen/bedrooms. Comfort + safety first.

How I Make Move-In Day Easier

  • Mover shortlist & quote compare (licensed carriers on your route)

  • Calendar coordination (closing, utilities, COIs, elevators)

  • Local pros (cleaners, locksmiths, painters, pest, HVAC)

  • Printable checklists and a first-72-hours game plan