When planning a move, most people think about packing boxes, hiring movers, and transporting furniture. However, one of the most critical yet overlooked tasks is handling utility transfers when moving homes. Utilities like electricity, water, gas, internet, and waste collection keep your daily life running smoothly. Forgetting to transfer or cancel them can leave you with unexpected bills, late fees, or even a dark, cold first night in your new place. To avoid these costly mistakes—and make your Bohagsflytt Spara Pengar—be sure to organize your utility changes well in advance.
Managing utilities doesn’t have to be stressful if you have a clear plan. With proper steps—and sometimes the help of an affordable moving company that provides guidance—you can make sure your move is seamless and that you’re not left dealing with service gaps or unnecessary costs.
This guide will walk you through a step-by-step process for transferring utilities, including planning ahead, contacting providers, handling deposits, and setting up services at your new address.
Why Utility Transfers Are So Important During a Move
Utility transfers may not seem urgent compared to physically moving your belongings, but here’s why they matter:
- Comfort on move-in day: You want lights, water, and internet available immediately.
- Avoid double billing: If you forget to cancel at your old address, you could end up paying for both places.
- Prevent service interruptions: A delay in transferring internet or gas can disrupt your work-from-home routine or basic needs.
- Legal and financial responsibility: Utility companies will bill the account holder until they are notified of a change.
Taking utilities seriously avoids stress and ensures a smooth transition into your new home.
Step 1: Create a Comprehensive Utility Checklist
The first step is identifying which utilities you currently have and which you’ll need at your new address. Common utilities include:
- Electricity
- Gas or heating oil
- Water and sewage
- Trash and recycling collection
- Internet, cable, and phone services
- Security systems (if monitored)
Write down the provider names, account numbers, and customer service contacts for each one. Having this list handy will save time when making calls and scheduling changes.
Step 2: Notify Providers Well in Advance
Most utility companies recommend notifying them at least two to three weeks before moving. This gives them enough time to process the request and schedule service changes.
When contacting providers, be prepared to:
- Provide your moving date.
- Give the old address for disconnection.
- Share the new address for connection.
- Confirm if you need a final meter reading.
Notifying providers early avoids delays and ensures your utilities are ready when you arrive.
Step 3: Schedule Shut-Offs and Start Dates Strategically
Timing is everything when it comes to utility transfers. You don’t want utilities cut off too early, nor do you want them activated too late at your new place.
Here’s how to schedule correctly:
- Old home: Schedule disconnections a day or two after your move-out date, in case you need to return for cleaning or repairs.
- New home: Schedule connections a day or two before your move-in date, so you arrive with utilities already running.
This overlap gives you a cushion and avoids last-minute headaches.
Step 4: Handle Final Bills and Deposits
Don’t forget the financial side of utility transfers:
- Final meter readings: Request readings on your shut-off date to ensure you’re only billed for what you used.
- Refunds or deposits: Some companies require deposits when you start service. Ask if your deposit will be transferred, refunded, or applied to your new account.
- Forwarding address: Provide your new address for final bills or refunds.
Keeping track of these details prevents billing errors and ensures you don’t lose money in the process.
Step 5: Internet and Cable Require Special Attention
Unlike water or electricity, internet and cable providers often require scheduled technician visits. If you rely on internet for work, this step is critical.
Tips for managing internet and cable transfers:
- Book early: Appointments can fill up, especially during peak moving season.
- Ask about equipment: Find out if you need to return old routers or cable boxes.
- Check coverage: Make sure your new home is serviced by your current provider. If not, you may need to switch companies.
Pro tip: If you need internet immediately at your new home, ask your provider about temporary mobile hotspots.
Step 6: Don’t Forget Trash, Recycling, and Local Services
Smaller services like trash pickup or water billing are often managed by local municipalities. Failing to transfer or set up these services can leave you with overflowing garbage or unpaid fines.
Steps to handle local services:
- Contact your city or county utility department.
- Set up new billing accounts in your name.
- Ask about trash and recycling schedules in your new neighborhood.
Getting this done ensures your household runs smoothly from the start.
Step 7: Keep a Record of All Communications
Utility transfers involve multiple providers, dates, and account details. To stay organized:
- Write down confirmation numbers from each provider.
- Keep copies of emails or letters confirming service changes.
- Track installation or shut-off dates in your moving calendar.
A paper trail helps resolve disputes if you receive incorrect bills later.
Step 8: Consider Bundling Services at Your New Home
When moving, it may be a good time to re-evaluate your providers. Bundling services like internet, cable, and phone can save money and simplify billing. Ask providers if they offer move-in promotions or discounts for new accounts.
Some moving companies even partner with utility providers to help customers set up bundled packages—ask your mover if they can recommend trusted partners.
Step 9: Check for Special Circumstances
Not every move is the same. Special cases include:
- Long-distance moves: You may need to close accounts entirely and set up new ones in another state or city.
- Renting vs. owning: Tenants may need to coordinate with landlords for certain utilities, while homeowners must establish all accounts independently.
- Smart homes or security systems: These often require reinstallation or professional setup at the new location.
Knowing your unique situation helps you plan accordingly.
Step 10: Do a Final Utility Check Before You Leave
Before handing over the keys to your old home, do a quick utility check:
- Test lights, water, and appliances to confirm shut-off dates.
- Double-check that no accounts are left in your name.
- Take photos of final meter readings for proof.
This final step ensures there are no surprises after you move out.
Common Mistakes People Make With Utility Transfers
To avoid problems, watch out for these mistakes:
- Waiting until the last minute to call providers.
- Forgetting about trash collection or water bills.
- Overlooking security system contracts.
- Assuming deposits automatically transfer.
- Not confirming installation appointments for internet.
Awareness of these pitfalls helps you manage the process smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Utility transfers may not be the most exciting part of moving, but they are among the most important. A little planning ensures you don’t end up without water, heat, or internet on move-in day. By creating a checklist, contacting providers early, and scheduling connections strategically, you can avoid unnecessary stress.
If you want extra support, working with an affordable moving company that offers utility coordination services can save time and effort. By handling these details properly, you’ll step into your new home with everything ready—lights on, Wi-Fi connected, and no leftover bills trailing behind you.
