If you're moving into a condo from a single-family home or an apartment, there are a few tasks you'll need to complete to make your transition into your new home as easy as possible. Most moves are pretty complicated and require ample time spent planning. You can make your move a lot less stressful by considering these tips and adding these tasks to your moving checklist.

Get Moving Quotes for Stairs and Multi-Level Moving

Your new condo might be across town, or it might be across the country, and your moving estimate will usually differ depending on distance and the complexity or size of the move. Relocating from an apartment to a condo is often less complicated than transitioning from a house to a condo.

It's important to discuss things like stairs with moving companies when you get your quotes, so you can get the most accurate estimate possible before your move. Additionally, it's important to measure your new residence so you can confirm your furniture and large items will fit in things like stairwells and the elevator.

Remember: Don't get caught on moving day with a couch your moving crew can't fit through the front door of your new condo!

Switch Your Utilities and Services

One of the features of condo living that many apartment dwellers aren't aware of is the need to set up utilities. Often, utilities like water and power are included with an apartment lease. In your condo, you might need to set up all your utilities, as well as things like television and the internet.

Make a list of the utilities you need to shut off at your old residence and make sure your new utilities are on and ready to use when you arrive. It's worth it to have some overlap of services, too. Consider having the power shut off the day after you move and getting the power turned on in your new place a day or two before you arrive.

Tip: Get in touch with your local or long distance moving company a few days before your move to make sure everything is on schedule. They'll probably give you a call to confirm your appointment, but a call on your end, too, can't hurt.

Scope Out the Elevator and Parking

Sometimes a condo will have ample parking, and there might even be a space for your moving truck where your moving company can park while they unload. That's not always the case, particularly when you're moving to a crowded place in an urban area.

Talk with the property management company to see if you can reserve a service elevator or one of the main elevators on moving day. Those service elevators often have larger openings and are meant for heavy loads, so you want to get access to them if your condo management company allows it.

Sell Old Stuff or Buy New Stuff

A move is a terrific way to reduce the junk and clutter you have in your home. You can save money with long distance moving companies when you transport fewer pieces of furniture, too. You'll want to take an inventory of your possessions and figure out if you need to get rid of anything because of space issues, or if you'll need to invest in new furniture at your condo.

If you're currently living with someone in a roommate situation and you'll be moving into your own condo, you might need to invest in things like flatware and items for the kitchen. It's pretty common to share things like small kitchen appliances and dishes, so you'll want to make a list of the things you need for your new condo. Don't risk searching for a blender after you move in only to realize the blender you used for three years belonged to your roommate.

Remember: If you're moving cross country, buy your furniture after you move into your new condo. Don't buy a new couch in Texas and then move it across the country to Florida. Buy the couch in Florida after you arrive.