For first-time home buyers and seasoned homeowners alike, moving day is a major drag.

Of course, it's exciting to start the next chapter of your life in a brand-new place, but the process of moving can be a grueling, exhausting ordeal. Aside from having to sort through literally everything you own, you also have to deal with the physical side of moving: packing boxes, lifting furniture, and deep-cleaning your house.

So to make moving day as pain-free as possible, you'll want to have specific household items at the ready.

Move-in day can be overwhelming, with plenty to get done. We recommend taking it one step at a time and keeping essential items within easy reach.

We spoke with experts and rounded out the ultimate checklist of things you'll appreciate having on moving day. These items will help you get settled sooner and ultimately make a smooth transition into your new home.

1. Bottled water and food

You're likely to be starving after hours of cleaning and moving, and won’t want to make a trip to the supermarket.

Have some water bottles and single-serve packs of granola on hand for moving day. For the first few days in your new place, stock up on easy-to-make food while you settle into your new home.

2. Boxcutter

Invest in a sturdy boxcutter—or multiple sturdy boxcutters. You'll need all the help you can get to open the boxes that you overtaped.

3. Cleaning supplies

You’ll want to give your house a good scrubbing before you move in. "Don't forget paper towels and other cleaning supplies in case the house is dusty.

You can bring your supplies from your old home in a box that you keep nearby and well-labeled. Or head to the store and buy soap, floor cleaner, sponges, a mop, bucket, window cleaners, a vacuum, bathroom cleaner, and a toilet scrubber.

If you're a true Type A planner, you could even arrange to have these essentials delivered to your new address on the day you show up. Less trips, more efficiency!

4. Closet hangers

You’ve made sure your new home is spotless. Now make sure your clothes aren’t wrinkled by purchasing all the hangers you can fit in your new closet. But no wire hangers. Ever.

5. Cooler with ice

This is a good idea if the previous owner didn’t leave a fridge and yours hasn’t arrived yet. A sturdy cooler stocked with cold beverages and assorted munchies can be a lifesaver on a busy moving day.

6. Furniture sliders

Even if you have movers assisting you with all your stuff, you'll likely want to procure some furniture sliders, the little things that go under the legs of chairs and couches and allow you to slide them easily without scratching your floor.

7. New front-door lock

That ceremonious moment when you're handed the keys to your new home is exciting. But you can’t be sure who else might possess a pair of keys to your place.

Plan and buy a new front-door lock, and set an appointment with a locksmith to change the locks or rekey the doors. You can have them come by on move-in day or shortly after.

8. Lamps

Don't spend your first night in your new house in the dark! Pack up all the lamps and light fixtures you're planning to keep from your previous home and have them readily available. Since some rooms lack overhead lighting, having lamps will be essential

9. Lightbulbs and batteries

These are other items you can usually buy in bulk. Invest in a set of bulbs in various wattage and shapes.

10. Toiletries

Personal hygiene might be the last thing on your mind on move-in day, but make sure you have soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, and anything else you need.

Moving day is a sweaty experience, and you’ll need a shower when you’re done. Plus, your new home will attract neighbors and friends. You’ll want to smell and look nice. Right?

11. Trash can and trash bags

If you plan to keep your trash barrel outside of a cabinet and you have a pet, it’s a smart idea to get a trash can with a secure top. You don’t want felines or canines getting into the trash on your first day in the new home.

12. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

You never want to go a day living in a house without properly installed smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Check the house on move-in day to make sure you have enough detectors. Test each one to make sure the batteries are working.

13. Sticky notes

Mark down where you want things. It’s a good idea to label where you want your furniture, TV, dining-room table, etc. You can do this by writing on a sticky note and leaving it where you want the items located. This will help the movers know where to put everything.

14. Your favorite beverage

Whether you prefer champagne, Dr. Pepper, or Maker's Mark, get yourself your favorite beverage to celebrate your new home. Toast yourself, your significant other, your kids, your friends and family, and everyone else who played a part in the move. You've earned it.

Original post courtesy of realtor.com.

Rich Dallas/Sharon Fincham

(c) 412-965-6387

(o) 724-941-3340

The Dallas-Fincham Team and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Rich@DallasFinchamTeam.com

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