You’ve packed the boxes, hired the movers, and mapped out your route to the new place. But have you thought about what happens when you flip the light switch for the first time? Nothing ruins the excitement of moving day quite like walking into a home with no electricity or running water. With a little planning, though, you can make sure everything is up and running before you even set down your first box.
Start Earlier Than You Think
Most utility companies recommend reaching out at least two weeks before your move. That might sound like plenty of time, but some services—especially internet and gas—may need a technician to visit in person. The earlier you call, the better your chances of getting an appointment that works with your schedule.
Make a list of everything you’ll need to transfer or set up: electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash collection, internet, and cable if you use it. Having all the details in one place makes the process much easier to manage.
Know What You’re Working With
Before you start making calls, gather some basic information. You’ll need your current account numbers, the service addresses for both homes, and your move-in and move-out dates. If you’re renting, check with your landlord—some utilities might already be included in your rent or handled by the property management company.
It’s also worth finding out which providers serve your new address. In some areas, you might have options to choose between companies, especially for electricity or internet. A little research could save you money each month. At Molloy Moving, we’ve been helping families across Long Island, NYC, and New Jersey since 1945, and we know that getting these details sorted early makes everything else fall into place.
Schedule Smart to Avoid Gaps
Here’s a tip that can save you a lot of frustration: schedule your services to overlap slightly. Set your old utilities to shut off the day after you move out, and have your new ones turned on the day before you move in. That way, you’ll have power and water at both places during the transition—no scrambling to clean or do a final walkthrough in the dark.
When you call to disconnect service at your old home, ask about final meter readings. Some companies send a technician, while others rely on estimates. If you can, take a photo of your meters on the day you leave. It’s a simple step that can protect you from billing mistakes down the road.
Don’t Forget the Extras
Beyond the basics, there are a few other services worth thinking about. Trash and recycling pickup is often handled by your municipality, so check your new town’s website for details. Some areas require you to request bins or sign up for a specific collection day.
If you have a home security system, you’ll need to decide whether to transfer it or set up a new one. And if your new home uses oil heat instead of gas, make sure the tank isn’t empty—especially if you’re moving during the colder months.
Confirm Everything Before Moving Day
A few days before you move, take a few minutes to call each provider and confirm your setup dates. It’s a quick step that can catch any mix-ups before they become problems. Once you arrive at your new home, test everything: flip the lights, run the water, check the heat or air conditioning. If something isn’t working, contact the provider right away.
Also, remember to update your billing address with each company. You don’t want final bills or important notices going to your old address and getting lost in the shuffle.
One Less Thing to Worry About
Transferring utilities might not be the most exciting part of your move, but getting it right means one less thing to worry about on moving day. With a little advance planning, you can walk into your new home knowing the lights will turn on, the water will run, and you’re ready to start settling in. Our team at Molloy Moving is here to help make every part of your relocation smoother. Contact our team on Long Island, in NYC, or in New Jersey to learn how we can take the stress out of your next move.
