There’s nothing worse than arriving at your new home on move-in day only to discover there’s no electricity, no water, or no internet. Transferring your utilities isn’t the most glamorous part of moving, but it’s one of the most important. A little planning ensures you won’t be unpacking in the dark or taking cold showers after a long day of moving.
From electricity to internet, this step-by-step guide will help you schedule utility transfers and service starts and stops like a pro.
Why Utility Transfer Planning Matters
When utilities aren’t properly scheduled during a move, even a smooth relocation can become chaotic. Planning ahead prevents:
- ⚡ Power outages or delayed activations
- 🚿 Interrupted water or gas service
- 📶 No Wi-Fi or cable for days after move-in
- 💰 Unnecessary double billing or late fees
- 📞 Last-minute customer service headaches
Utility companies often need at least a few business days to process service changes — so the earlier you handle this, the better.
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Step 1: Make a Complete Utility Checklist
Every household has different utility needs. Start by listing all the services that need to be stopped, transferred, or started:
- 💡 Electricity
- 🔥 Gas
- 🚿 Water and sewer
- 🗑️ Trash and recycling
- 📶 Internet and cable
- ☎️ Landline or security systems
If you’re moving to a new city or state, the providers may be different. This checklist will guide your next steps and prevent you from forgetting anything essential.
Step 2: Schedule Your Transfers Early
Utility companies may need a few days (or even weeks) to process a start or stop request — especially during peak moving seasons. As soon as you know your moving date:
- 📞 Call or go online to schedule service changes
- 📅 Request start/stop dates at least 2 weeks in advance
- 📄 Have account numbers, addresses, and IDs ready
- ⚡ Ask for confirmation numbers or emails after scheduling
This ensures your new home is ready when you arrive and your old home’s utilities stop at the right time.
Step 3: Avoid Service Gaps
To make sure your move is seamless, schedule your stop date for the day after your move-out and your start date for the day before your move-in. That buffer gives you:
- 💡 Light and power during the final cleaning at your old place
- 🚚 Comfort and functionality as soon as you arrive at the new home
- 🧭 Protection against activation delays
It’s better to pay for one extra day of service than to face a blackout on moving day.
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Step 4: Coordinate With Your Landlord or Real Estate Agent
If you’re renting or buying, clarify responsibilities for utility transfers early:
- 🏢 Some landlords include utilities in rent
- 🏡 Some HOAs or communities manage water, sewer, or trash
- 📝 Make sure all accounts are in your name before you move in
For renters, confirm move-in and move-out inspection times align with your utility schedule. For homeowners, be ready to provide proof of ownership if required.
Step 5: Transferring vs. Starting New Accounts
If your utility providers operate in both your old and new location, transferring service can be quick. If they don’t, you’ll need to set up new accounts. In either case:
- 📞 Contact the provider directly for transfer instructions
- 🧾 Ask about deposits or installation fees
- 🪙 Check if there are early termination penalties for your old address
- 📅 Schedule any technician appointments well before moving day
Don’t wait until the last minute — some installations, especially internet, book up quickly.
Step 6: Internet and Cable Setup Takes Longer
Electricity and water usually start automatically on the requested date, but internet and cable often require a technician. To avoid delays:
- 📅 Book your installation at least 2 weeks ahead
- 📶 Ask if you can self-install to save time
- 🔌 Check that your new home is serviceable for your provider
- 🧭 Have your modem and router ready
This is especially important if you work remotely or rely on streaming services.
Step 7: Don’t Forget Trash and Recycling
Trash and recycling services are easy to overlook but essential for a clean move-in. Depending on your location:
- 🏙️ City services may start automatically once utilities are in your name
- 🏡 Private haulers may require separate setup
- 🧹 Schedule pickup to begin the same week you arrive
Having bins and a collection schedule in place keeps your new home organized from day one.
Step 8: Double-Check Meter Readings
Before leaving your old home and moving into your new one, record meter readings for electricity, gas, and water:
- 📸 Take clear photos with timestamps
- 📝 Note readings on your move-out and move-in checklists
- 🤝 Confirm with utility reps to avoid overcharges
This simple step protects you from paying for usage that isn’t yours.
Step 9: Update Your Billing Address
Even after utilities are transferred, make sure your billing address is updated:
- 🏡 Enter your new address in each utility account
- 📧 Switch to paperless billing if available
- 📬 Confirm that final bills from your old home will be forwarded
Keeping your contact info current prevents missed bills and late fees.
Step 10: Keep a Utility Folder
Moving involves dozens of moving parts — literally. Keep a dedicated folder (digital or physical) with:
- 📄 Account numbers and provider contacts
- 📝 Confirmation numbers for transfer dates
- 📸 Photos of meters and installation notes
- 📆 Technician appointment details
This makes it easy to solve any post-move utility issues quickly and confidently.
Step 11: Plan for Seasonal Considerations
If your move takes place during extreme weather months, utility timing matters even more:
- ☀️ Schedule AC or heat activation early for summer or winter moves
- ❄️ Protect plumbing and water systems from freezing
- 🚿 Confirm water heater activation for hot water on move-in day
Nothing slows down unpacking like freezing hands or a hot summer blackout.
Working With a Professional Moving Company
Experienced movers like United Local Movers understand how crucial utility timing can be. Many customers schedule their utility transfers alongside their moving dates to ensure a smooth, fully functional move-in experience.
Keeping the Lights On From Day One
Transferring utilities and scheduling start/stop services isn’t exciting — but it’s one of the most important parts of a stress-free move. With proper planning, you can step into your new home with the lights on, the water running, and Wi-Fi ready to go.
With United Local Movers, your relocation becomes safer, faster, and stress-free — right down to the last switch you flip.
