Moving into your first apartment can be an exciting transition, whether you are moving from the college dorms or your parents' home. It can also be a bit stressful, but there are a few things you can do to make this transition a bit easier. Here are some helpful tips to get you ready for your first apartment.

Ask Your Landlord About The Move

Some apartment buildings have specific rules for times of the day you are allowed to move and which doors you can use. Be sure to ask about any restrictions there might be when you sign your lease so you can properly prepare and make the necessary arrangements in advance. You may also want to ask if you can get into the apartment a day or two early so you can begin to clean and prep it for the move. Be sure to ask where you can park your moving truck, and consider using your personal vehicle to "reserve" the parking spot for your truck.

Rent A Truck

Box trucks offer a convenient option for moving into your first apartment. If you don't have a lot of furniture or boxes, a smaller truck will do the job. Your box truck rental company can help you to determine which sized truck you need based on how many rooms' worth of furniture you have. If you don't feel comfortable driving a box truck on your own, be sure to ask if the truck rental company offers driver services. In some cases, you can hire a person to drive the truck, though he or she may not be obligated to help you move.

Determine What You Have

There may be lots of essential items you don't have, such as certain pieces of furniture or kitchen gadgets. Take an inventory of what you have and make a list of what you might need. Ask your parents or family members whether they have old furniture you can use, and begin shopping for smaller items as you see them on sale at local department or discount stores. Keep any new items you purchase in the box before you move, as this will make it easier to get everything packed.

Collect Packing Materials

You may be working with a limited budget for your move, so look for ways you can save money on packing materials. You can visit local grocery stores and liquor stores to ask for boxes that might otherwise be thrown away, and you can begin to save newspapers that can be used for packing fragile items. If you do need to purchase packing materials, be sure to ask your moving truck rental company, as you may be able to get discounted rates on some of these items as part of your moving package. The moving truck company may also be able to  provide you with specialized boxes, such as those used to move flat-screen televisions, to help ensure your items are safely transported to your new apartment.

Set Up Utilities

You'll want to set up your utilities in advance so your electricity and gas are on when you move. If your landlord does let you into the apartment a day early, try to arrange with your local internet provider to have your internet services set up that day.

Your moving company can help guide you through the process of moving into a first apartment, so don't hesitate to ask questions as you prepare for this exciting new chapter in your life.