Moving to a new city can give you that sense of disorientation, that uneasy feeling that you don’t really belong there. Time will often help you overcome the initial shock, but post move periods can be really tough in the very beginning, especially if you have absolutely no idea what things to do after a move.

You know unpacking comes next, but how about learning the secrets of your new home? Sure, you’ll have to change your postal address, but have you found good health care providers yet? And yes, you should register your car after your cross country move, but isn’t making new friends your top priority?

What to do after a move? How, when, and why to do them all?

1. Organize your post move time

Welcome to your new home!

By the way, your professional movers didn’t overcharge you, did they? Your post move period starts as soon as you step over the threshold of your new house or apartment. You’ll probably notice that the very first day after moving into a new home is mostly characterized by a feeling of relief that the house move is finally over and now you can finally shake off that nerve-wracking build-up of stress and anxiety.

Yes, do consider creating a brand new to-do list that will contain all the tasks you are expected to complete now that the relocation is over. New home errands? New city tasks? Your time matters too much to just do nothing, so get down to work. Again.

2. Unpack that mountain of boxes
The very first boxes you should unpack are your essentials boxes filled up with items of utmost importance. Then, you should start opening up all the Bedroom and Bathroom labeled containers, as those are the two rooms you are advised to set up with priority. After all, aren’t the thoughts in your head revolving around taking a quick shower and having a rest on your comfy bed?

3. Learn the secrets of your new home
Are the doors and windows as safe as they can be? Are there smoke detectors installed? What about conveniently placed fire-extinguishers on each floor? Needless to say, the fewer secrets your new place has, the better it is for you. Look for any signs of pre-existing damage, inspect the pipes for leaks, and keep your eyes open for unpleasant signs of infestation. Also, locate the fuse box and the main water stop valve in case of emergencies, and then write down the readings of your water- and electricity meters.

4. Find suitable health care providers
You never know how your body and mind will react to the stress of the recent move, or the conditions of the new city environment. One potential problem is that the health care provider you knew and trusted for years can no longer see you and have a look at you should you catch a cold, become more seriously ill, or simply need a specific document from a doctor.

5. Help your pets acclimatize
If you just relocated with a pet, or pets, then you shouldn’t wonder too much about what to do after you move into a new house. This is so simply because one of the answers is too clear – you need to make sure your animal friend is feeling okay after the sudden change of scenery and unexpected leap out of their comfort zone.

6. Get to know your new city
Take frequent exploratory walks first in your neighborhood, and then throughout the city itself. Get familiar with the city landmarks, learn a bit more about its history, and maybe even make an effort to understand better how the locals enjoy life in general. In short, dare to step more often outside the comfort of your new home and hopefully you will soon be on friendly terms with the city you just moved to.