Whether you’re a college student moving out of your parents’ home or a millennial finally looking to take flight, this can be a daunting task for anyone. First off, you may feel scared and unsure of what will happen. Second, you’re probably worried about finances and how you will be able to face bills on your own.
Third, you’re probably going to be on an emotional rollercoaster: you’ll go between extremes of joy and excitement at the thought of finally living on your own with no one around telling you what to do, followed by feelings of being terrified that things may not work out as you hope.
Choosing the right Fort Worth movers, preparing carefully will help you avoid unnecessary stress and keep your move on track.
Here are five helpful tips, drawn from years of moving experience, to make your first move a success.
1. Make a Moving To-Do List to Stay Organized
With no previous experience picking up and moving, you may find it difficult to know where to start. Start with a checklist from beginning to end, preferably in a timeline of when you need to accomplish each item. This will help you stay organized until Moving Day arrives, ensuring you don’t miss a step.
Start by listing everything you’ll need to handle before, during, and after your move. A well-structured list might include:
- Researching and booking a moving company in Fort Worth
- Giving notice to your current landlord or property manager
- Setting up or transferring utilities (electricity, internet, water, trash services)
- Gathering packing supplies or scheduling professional packing services
- Decluttering and donating items you don’t plan to take
- Planning the first week in your new place (groceries, essentials, security deposits)
Break larger items into smaller tasks. For example, “pack kitchen” might become “pack dishes,” “wrap glassware,” and “box pantry staples.” Each time you check something off, you’ll build momentum.
➡️ Pro tip: Olde World Movers provides local residential moves and packing services throughout Fort Worth, Frisco, Euless, and surrounding areas. Adding “hire movers” to your to-do list early ensures you’ll secure your preferred moving date.
2. Plan Your Moving Budget Early
Moving out for the first time means taking on new financial responsibilities — and moving itself comes with a range of costs. Planning your budget early will prevent surprises and help you transition smoothly.
Your moving budget should include:
- Moving Company Fees: Get quotes from several Fort Worth movers and compare services. Olde World Movers offers free estimates, so you’ll know upfront what to expect.
- Packing Supplies or Services: Boxes, bubble wrap, tape, or professional packing assistance.
- Security Deposits & Rent: Most apartments require a deposit plus first month’s rent.
- Utilities: Connection fees for electricity, water, gas, and internet.
- Transportation & Storage: Gas for your car, rental trucks (if DIY), or long- and short-term storage if your timeline is flexible.
- Personal Expenses: Groceries, furniture, home essentials, and unexpected costs.
A realistic budget helps you decide where to save and where to invest. For example, while DIY moves may look cheaper, hiring a moving company in Fort Worth ensures your belongings are handled professionally — avoiding costly damages and lost time.
➡️ Pro tip: Try to add a 10–15% “cushion” to your moving budget. This buffer covers surprise expenses, like last-minute cleaning supplies or extra packing materials.
3. Choose a Trusted Moving Company in Fort Worth
One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right Fort Worth movers. Your belongings — including valuables and sentimental items — deserve expert care.
Here’s how to select the best moving company:
- Check Credentials: Make sure the movers are licensed and insured.
- Read Reviews: Look for a proven track record of professionalism and reliability.
- Request an In-Home Estimate: Reputable companies like Olde World Movers provide free moving estimates, ensuring transparency in pricing.
- Compare Services: Some movers only handle transportation, while others (like Olde World Movers) offer packing, storage, and specialty moving services for pianos, antiques, and fine art.
- Ask About Experience: Moving delicate or high-value items requires skill — not just muscle.
Hiring experienced movers gives you peace of mind and allows you to focus on the excitement of your transition instead of stressing about logistics.
➡️ Pro tip: Olde World Movers has over three decades of experience, with dedicated teams for local residential moves, long-distance moving, commercial relocations, and specialty moves in Fort Worth.
4. Secure a Stable Job Before or As Soon as You Move Out
Financial independence is one of the biggest changes when you move out for the first time. Having a stable job ensures you can cover rent, bills, groceries, and other daily expenses without draining your savings.
If you don’t already have a job lined up:
- Start your search 2–3 months before moving day.
- Explore job boards specific to Fort Worth and the surrounding areas.
- Consider opportunities close to your new home for easier commuting.
- Budget for the first 2–3 months of living expenses in case your job search takes longer than expected.
If you’re moving for work, confirm your start date and factor in relocation benefits your employer may offer. Many companies contribute to moving expenses or cover temporary housing.
➡️ Pro tip: Even if you’re moving out of state, a long-distance moving company like Olde World Movers can simplify the process — from careful packing to final delivery.
5. Pack Smart: What to Take and What to Leave Behind
You may be at a loss deciding what to pack and what to leave behind. If your parents are remaining in their home, this decision is made easier, because you can keep many of your items in your old room or in the attic. If they are selling and downsizing, you will have a bigger decision to make.
Packing is one of the most stressful parts of moving — especially if you’re not sure what to keep. First-time movers often bring too much, which creates clutter and higher moving costs.
Follow these steps to pack smart:
- Declutter Before You Pack: Donate clothes you don’t wear, appliances you don’t use, and furniture that won’t fit in your new place.
- Organize by Room: Pack one room at a time to stay organized.
- Label Everything: Use color-coded labels or a numbering system to track boxes.
- Create an Essentials Box: Keep a box of items you’ll need right away — toiletries, a few dishes, bedding, chargers, and important documents.
- Protect Fragile Items: Use bubble wrap, packing paper, or professional packing services to prevent breakage.
Olde World Movers also offers specialty services for pianos, antiques, and fine art — ensuring valuable items are transported safely and securely.
➡️ Pro tip: Downsizing before your move will save you money, time, and stress. Remember: the less you move, the less you pay.
Get Your Free Moving Estimate in Fort Worth Today!
Moving out for the first time is a major life milestone, and with the right preparation, it can be exciting instead of overwhelming. From creating a checklist and budgeting wisely to hiring professional movers and packing smart, these tips will help you feel confident as you start this new chapter.
Olde World Movers is here to make the process easier. With locations in Fort Worth, Frisco, and Euless, our expert team provides:
- Local residential moves across North Texas
- Long-distance moving for out-of-state relocations
- Commercial moves for offices and businesses
- Piano and antique moving with specialized care
- Packing services and supplies
- Secure long- and short-term storage solutions
When you’re ready to move, choose the moving company in Fort Worth trusted by thousands of families and businesses.
📞 Contact Olde World Movers today for your free moving estimate in Fort Worth and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should be on my moving to-do list when moving out for the first time?
When moving out for the first time, your checklist should include hiring a moving company in Fort Worth, setting up utilities, budgeting, packing, and planning your essentials box. A detailed to-do list keeps your move organized and stress-free.
2. How much does it cost to hire Fort Worth movers?
The cost of hiring Fort Worth movers depends on distance, size of the move, and services needed (packing, storage, specialty moves). Olde World Movers offers a free moving estimate in Fort Worth, so you’ll know your costs upfront.
3. Do movers offer packing services in Fort Worth?
Yes! Many moving companies in Fort Worth provide professional packing services. Olde World Movers offers full-service and partial packing, plus specialty packing for fragile or valuable items such as pianos, antiques, and fine art.
4. What should I pack first when moving out for the first time?
Start by packing non-essential items such as seasonal clothing, décor, and books. Save daily essentials for last. Many first-time movers also create an “essentials box” with toiletries, bedding, chargers, and important documents for quick access.
5. Do I need storage when moving in Fort Worth?
If your move-in date doesn’t line up with your move-out date, or if you’re downsizing, long- and short-term storage can be a smart solution. Olde World Movers provides secure storage options to keep your belongings safe until you’re ready.
6. How do I choose the best moving company in Fort Worth?
To find the best moving company in Fort Worth, look for licensed and insured movers with positive reviews, free estimates, and a range of services including local, long-distance, and specialty moves. Olde World Movers has over 30 years of trusted experience.
