Organize your move with our checklist, plus recommended local moving companies and utility setup.
Moving to a new apartment in Midland is exciting. But it can also be a little stressful if you do not have a plan. There is so much to do. Packing boxes. Changing your address. Setting up electricity. Hiring a moving truck.
Where do you even start?
Do not worry. We put together a complete moving checklist just for renters in Midland. Follow it step by step. We also included local vendors that can help you along the way.
Let’s make your move a smooth one.
The Moving Checklist
Here is a step by step guide to moving into your new Midland apartment. Follow these tasks in order and you will not forget a thing.
One Month Before Moving
Start working on these tasks about four weeks before your move in date.
Research and book a moving company or truck. If you have a lot of furniture or heavy items, hiring movers can save your back. If you are on a budget, renting a truck and asking friends to help works great too. We list some local options below.
Start packing rooms you do not use often. Pack up guest rooms, storage closets, and off season clothes first. Label every box with the room it belongs in.
Gather packing supplies. You will need boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers, and old newspapers. Ask friends for spare boxes or check local stores.
Create a moving budget. Write down what you expect to spend on movers, a truck, packing supplies, utility deposits, and any cleaning fees.
Two Weeks Before Moving
Change your address. Go to the post office or do it online. Update your address with your bank, credit cards, subscriptions, and any online stores you use often.
Schedule your utility setups. You do not want to move into a dark apartment with no air conditioning. Call or go online to set up your electricity, water, trash, and internet. We tell you exactly who to call below.
Confirm your move in date and time with your landlord. Make sure you know when you can pick up your keys. Also find out where the loading zone or parking spots are for moving day.
Transfer any medical prescriptions. If you use a local pharmacy, let them know your new address. If you are moving from another city, find a new pharmacy in Midland.
Clean your old place. If you are leaving another rental, give it a good cleaning so you get your security deposit back.
One Week Before Moving
Pack an “open first” box. This box should have toilet paper, soap, a towel, phone chargers, paper plates, cups, snacks, and a change of clothes. You will thank yourself when you arrive tired and do not want to unpack everything.
Label your boxes by room. Write “kitchen,” “bedroom,” or “bathroom” on the side of each box. This helps movers or friends put boxes in the right rooms.
Take apart furniture. Take legs off tables. Remove bed frames. Bag up all screws and small parts and tape the bag to the furniture piece.
Prepare your payment for the landlord. Have your security deposit and first month’s rent ready. Most landlords want a certified check or money order.
Take photos of your new apartment if you can. Do a walk through before moving day to note any existing damage. Take pictures and send them to your landlord.
Moving Day
Get your keys first. Pick up your keys before the moving truck arrives. Make sure they work.
Do a final walkthrough. Check every room in your new apartment. Turn on lights. Flush toilets. Run the water. Make sure everything works.
Direct the movers or helpers. Tell them which rooms to put each piece of furniture. It is easier to move a sofa once than to move it twice.
Set up your bedroom first. Put the bed together and make it. You will be exhausted later. A ready bed means a good night’s sleep.
Take a break and order food. Moving is hard work. Grab some dinner from a local Midland restaurant and take a breath.
Unpack your “open first” box. Set up the bathroom and kitchen basics. You do not need to unpack everything in one day.
Local Moving Companies in Midland
If you want to hire professionals to help with your move, here are some trusted moving companies right here in the Permian Basin.
West Texas Master Movers
This company has excellent reviews and handles local and long distance moves from Midland. They serve Midland County, Ector County, and Martin County. They can do full service packing or just help with loading and unloading. They are known for being professional and careful with your belongings.
Rocky Ford Moving Vans
A family owned business that has been helping people in Midland move for decades. They offer residential and office moving services with a focus on careful handling. They are located right on West Industrial Avenue.
Brothers Moving and Storage
Based nearby in Odessa, this company does residential moves in Midland and beyond. They offer full service packing and can also provide storage if you need to keep some items safe for a while. They have been doing business since 2016.
Willis Permian Movers
Serving Midland and Odessa for over 40 years, this company is an agent for Bekins Van Lines. They handle local, long distance, and even international moves. They also offer packing services and storage options.
E Z Local Moving Inc.
In business since 1984, this company offers both full service moving and do it yourself options like rental trucks. They are great for apartment moves and smaller relocations around Midland.
Rental Truck Options
If you prefer to move your own stuff, these rental truck companies have locations in Midland.
U Haul has several locations around town where you can rent trucks, vans, and trailers. Penske is known for comfortable newer trucks if you have a longer drive. Budget is another good choice with competitive rates. All three are available in Midland.
How to Set Up Your Utilities in Midland
You need to get your utilities running before you move in. Here is who to call and what you need.
Water, Sewer, and Trash
These are all handled by the City of Midland. You will get one bill for all three services. To open an account, you can apply online at water.midlandtexas.gov. Or you can go in person to the Utility Billing Office at Centerpointe Plaza, 1030 Andrews Highway, Suite 220.
You will need a valid photo ID and your lease paperwork. The city office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also call them at 432‑685‑7320 with questions.
Trash pickup happens twice a week on either Monday and Thursday or Tuesday and Friday, depending on where you live.
Electricity
Texas has a deregulated electricity market. That means you can shop around and choose your electricity provider. Many different companies offer plans in Midland. You can compare rates online to find the best deal for your budget.
Gas and Internet
Natural gas service is available from several providers in the area. Ask your landlord which gas company serves your building. For internet and cable, companies like Spectrum and other providers have service in Midland.
A Helpful Shortcut
Citizen Home Solutions is a free service that can help you set up gas, electricity, cable, and internet all at once. They coordinate with the providers for you. This can save you a lot of phone calls and time.
Last Reminders Before You Move
Do not forget these important tasks.
Get renters insurance. Set it up before moving day. Most apartments require proof of insurance before you get your keys.
Take photos of everything. Before you move a single box in, take photos of every wall, floor, window, and appliance. Save these photos. They protect your security deposit.
Update your driver’s license. If you moved from another Texas city, update your address with the DMV. If you moved from another state, you have 90 days to get a Texas license.
Introduce yourself to neighbors. A friendly hello goes a long way. They can tell you about the area, parking quirks, and when trash pickup happens.
Keep This Handy
You can save this checklist or bookmark this page to refer back to as you pack. Moving is a lot of work, but checking off tasks one by one makes it feel easier.
Welcome to your new apartment in Midland. You have got this.
Looking for your next rental in Midland? Browse our directory of apartments to find the perfect place to call home.