What to Do Right After Moving to Hawaii: A Realistic Checklist with Local Tips

Moving to Hawaii is a major life decision—especially when you’re relocating from California. Congratulations—your move to Hawaii is complete! But before you head straight to the beach, there are some important (and often overlooked) tasks to handle. This isn’t just another generic checklist; it’s packed with Hawaii-specific tips and insights from real experiences to help you transition smoothly into island life.

Check and Assemble Your Household Essentials

Even if you arranged freight shipping to Hawaii, your container may not arrive right away. In the meantime, you’ll likely need to gather essentials like bedding, cookware, toiletries, and cleaning supplies.

 Local Tip: Stores like Target, Costco, and Don Quijote are go-to options, but on neighbor islands, inventory can be limited. Facebook Marketplace and local buy/sell groups are lifesavers for picking up temporary furniture or secondhand essentials.

Transfer Your Driver’s License and Register Your Vehicle

New residents have 30 days to transfer their license and register any vehicle imported from the mainland. If you used car shipping from California to Hawaii, have your shipping documents and safety inspection papers ready for the DMV.

 Local Tip: DMV appointments can book out weeks in advance—schedule one online as soon as you arrive. On some islands, walk-in wait times can be hours long.

Set Up Utilities and Internet

If your new home doesn’t have utilities set up, contact providers like Hawaiian Electric and Spectrum. In some areas, you may have only one internet provider to choose from, and installation delays are common.

 Local Tip: Ask your landlord or building manager about existing accounts. In many condos, electricity or water may already be included or centrally managed.

Update Your Address

File a change of address with USPS, and notify banks, insurance companies, and service providers. If you’re still expecting items from your freight forwarder or Hawaii moving company, make sure they have your local delivery info.

 Local Tip: Mail forwarding from the mainland to Hawaii can take 1–3 weeks, even with USPS. Don’t rely on forwarded mail for time-sensitive documents.

Find Healthcare Providers and Understand Local Insurance

Hawaii’s Prepaid Health Care Act may affect your eligibility based on employment status. Research local health plans and schedule appointments with a new doctor and dentist.

Local Tip: Some islands have limited specialists. If you or a family member has specific health needs, check which services are available in your area before choosing where to live.

Register to Vote in Hawaii

Become an active part of your new community by registering to vote. You can do it online or at your local county office.

 Local Tip: Hawaii encourages vote-by-mail, but you must register early to receive ballots on time—especially on neighbor islands.

Enroll Children in School

Contact your local school district or private school to begin the enrollment process. You’ll need proof of residency, immunization records, and transcripts.

 Local Tip: Hawaii public schools follow a different academic calendar than many mainland schools. Check term start dates before your move.

Get Involved in the Community

Joining local events, clubs, or cultural activities helps you embrace the Aloha Spirit and settle in faster. Start with neighborhood associations, beach cleanups, or farmers markets.

Local Tip: Many communities have informal Facebook or WhatsApp groups. These are great for getting recommendations and local insights—far better than Google!

Track and Confirm Remaining Deliveries

If you used , keep in close contact with your logistics provider. Delays due to weather or port congestion are not uncommon.

Local Tip: If you’re moving into a condo or gated property, check if delivery companies need prior access approval. Many buildings require booking a freight elevator or scheduling a move-in window.

Give Yourself Grace to Adjust

Island life has a different pace. Things may take longer, from repairs to paperwork. Rather than fight it, lean into the slower rhythm.

Local Tip: “Island time” is real. That plumber or internet technician might be a few days late. Flexibility and patience will serve you better than frustration.

Final Thoughts

Moving to Hawaii is more than just a change of address—it’s a cultural shift, a new rhythm, and a fresh lifestyle. By tackling these essential tasks with realistic expectations and local know-how, you’ll feel at home faster—and enjoy the transition more fully.

If you still need support with shipping household goods to Hawaii, tracking your container, or shipping your car from the mainland, JNR Global Logistics is here to help. Reach out for personalized support from professionals who understand Hawaii moves inside and out.