The move is complete – but before you can sit back and relax in your new home, there are still a few important things to do. What administrative procedures are pending? What needs to be set up first? In this checklist you will learn the most important first steps after the moveso that you can settle into your new apartment quickly and stress-free.
1. Change address & complete re-registration
📍 1. Registration at the residents' registration office
✅ Within 14 days after the move You must register with the residents’ registration office.
✅ Make an appointment online to avoid long waiting times.
✅ Required documents:
- Identity card or passport
- Rental agreement or landlord confirmation
📨 2. Change of address for important offices
✅ Inform banks, insurance companies & employers.
✅ Update magazines, subscriptions & memberships.
✅ If necessary, Set up a mail forwarding order with the post office (approx. €20–30 for 6 months).
💡 Tip: With a well-organized address change, you can avoid missing letters and important documents!
2. Register for electricity, water & internet
🔌 1. Conclude an electricity and gas contract
✅ If you haven’t already done so: Compare electricity providers and, if applicable, gas providers and register.
✅ Note down the meter readings for electricity, gas and water and send them to the new provider.
🌐 2. Set up internet & telephone connection
✅ If a new provider was chosen: Connect the router & provide access data.
✅ If possible, commission before movingso that there are no delays.
💡 Tip: If your internet connection is delayed, mobile hotspots can help as a temporary solution!
3. Furnish & organize your apartment
📦 1. Unpack boxes & assemble furniture
✅ Most important rooms first: Bedroom, kitchen & bathroom set as a priority.
✅ Unpack boxes immediately after moving in to quickly create order.
🚪 2. Check door locks and replace if necessary
✅ If necessary, have new door locks installed.
✅ If you rent, ask your landlord for permission.
🌱 3. Make your apartment cozy
✅ Plants & decorations create a homely feeling.
✅ If you are still missing furniture: Check classified ads or second-hand furniture as a cheap alternative.
💡 Tip: The faster the most important things are done, the faster you will feel at home!
4. Get to know your neighbors and explore the area
🏡 1. Contact your neighbors
✅ A friendly “hello” can help you settle in faster.
✅ If necessary, ask for important information about waste separation, parking spaces & house rules.
📍 2. Check shopping opportunities & infrastructure
✅ Find supermarkets, pharmacies & doctors nearby.
✅ Explore public transport connections & routes to work or school.
💡 Tip: A walk through the neighborhood will help you feel at home faster!
5. Update authorities & insurance companies
📜 1. Don’t forget to re-register your vehicle (if necessary)
✅ If you own a car, the registration office must also be informed.
✅ Update your address in your vehicle registration.
🛡 2. Adjust insurance
✅ Update your home contents insurance for your new apartment.
✅ If applicable, adjust your homeowners insurance or liability insurance.
💡 Tip: Often, moving can result in cheaper tariffs or a change of provider!
6. Relax & feel good after the move
🛋 1. Plan your housewarming party
✅ A small housewarming party can help you feel at home faster.
✅ Invite neighbors & friends to socialize.
🗓 2. Develop new routines
✅ After the stress of moving, it is important to create a new structure.
✅ Explore sports facilities, cafes or cultural offerings in the area.
💡 Tip: A move is also an opportunity for a fresh start – enjoy the change!
7. Avoid common mistakes after moving
❌ Forget to re-register & risk fines → Solution: Complete at the residents’ registration office within 14 days.
❌ Overlooked address changes & missed important mail → Solution: Set up a forwarding order with the post office.
❌ Applying for internet connection too late & being without internet for weeks → Solution: Book at least 4 weeks in advance.
❌ Not unpacking boxes for weeks & having chaos → Solution: Start packing immediately after the move.
💡 Tip: Good planning saves unnecessary stress after the move!
8. Checklist for the first few days after the move
📌 Immediately after moving in:
✅ Assemble furniture & unpack important boxes.
✅ Note electricity, gas & water meter readings.
✅ Activate internet & telephone connection.
🏡 Within the first week:
✅ Register your change of address with the residents’ registration office.
✅ Change your address with banks, insurance companies & employers.
✅ Get to know your neighbors & explore the area.
📋 Within the first month:
✅ Check the return of the deposit for the old apartment.
✅ Unpack the remaining boxes and make your apartment cozy.
✅ Discover leisure activities in the area.
💡 Tip: A structured checklist helps you not to forget anything and to settle in quickly!
Conclusion: How to successfully move into your new home
✔ Complete re-registration & address changes directly
✔ Register for electricity, water & internet early
✔ Furnish your apartment & unpack boxes quickly
✔ Get to know your neighbors and find your way around your new surroundings
🏠 Have you just moved and still need support? Praktik Transport not only helps you with your move, but also provides practical tips for the perfect start in your new home! Get a non-binding offer now! 🚛📦✨
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