When you’re in the middle of packing and planning your move, it’s easy to forget about one crucial part of settling in: getting your utilities turned on. Imagine arriving at your new place after a long day of moving, only to find out the power isn’t working or the water is off. It’s frustrating — and completely avoidable.
Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, setting up your utility services ahead of time can prevent headaches like unexpected outages, billing mix-ups, or late fees. At United Local Movers, we’ve helped thousands of people relocate smoothly — and organizing utilities is always a big part of that plan.
What Utilities You Might Need
Every home is different, but most households rely on these basic services:
- Electricity
- Natural gas or heating oil
- Water and sewer
- Trash and recycling pickup
- Internet and cable TV
- Home security systems
- Landline phone (if needed)
If you’re moving to a new city or state, some providers might not be available anymore. Take time to research which companies operate in your new area so you’re not left scrambling on move-in day.
How to Handle Your Utility Setup
1. Make a Simple Checklist
Start by listing all the services you currently use — including account numbers and contact info. Then write down what you’ll need at your new place. This helps you track what needs to be canceled, transferred, or set up from scratch.
2. Research Providers in Your New Area
If you’re moving somewhere new, your current provider may not service the area. Do a quick search online for:
- Local electricity or gas companies
- Available internet providers
- Municipal or private trash services
Most areas let you check availability by ZIP code — just type it in and see what pops up.
3. Schedule Services Ahead of Time
Contact each provider at least two weeks before your move. For essentials like power, water, and gas, aim to have them running the day before you arrive. That way, you’ll walk into a home that already feels like home.
You can usually set things up online or over the phone. Have ready:
- Your new address
- Move-in date
- Account number or ID
- A forwarding address for final bills
4. Cancel or Transfer Old Services
For your old home, schedule cancellations for the day after you move out — just in case you need to clean or do a final walkthrough. Confirm if your service can be transferred or if you need to close and reopen a new account.
Also, return any rented equipment — like modems, cable boxes, or smart thermostats — to avoid extra charges.
5. Double-Check Everything After Moving
Once you’re settled, test everything: lights, outlets, Wi-Fi, hot water, and thermostat. If something’s not working, call the provider right away to fix the issue before it becomes a bigger problem.
Smart Tips for Managing Utilities
- Take photos of meter readings when you leave your old place to avoid billing disputes
- Set reminders on your phone for cancellation dates or setup appointments
- Ask about technician visits if your internet or gas requires an installation
- Be ready for deposits if you’re starting fresh with a new provider or in a new state
What Renters Should Know
If you’re renting, check with your landlord about what’s included in the lease. Some buildings cover water or trash pickup, while others expect tenants to handle it themselves. Confirm whether you need to show proof of service activation before moving in.
How United Local Movers Helps You Settle In
United Local Movers knows how important it is to move into a space where everything works. We don’t just help with boxes and furniture — we help you plan every detail of your move, including getting your utilities set up on time.
Here’s how we support you:
- We give you a custom moving timeline so you never miss a utility deadline
- We offer flexible delivery options in case of last-minute delays
- We connect you with simple checklists to stay organized
And if things aren’t quite ready at your new place yet? No problem. We offer best-rate temporary storage so you can take your time without pressure.
In Short
Setting up your utilities might not be the most exciting part of moving — but it’s one of the most important. With a little planning, you can make sure your new home is powered up, connected, and ready for life from day one.
Let United Local Movers help you settle in smoothly — no surprises, no stress, just a fresh start.
