Hi, usually I do these:-
1. clean the tank and sump area for any debris; clean the cabinet too
2. for convenience, arrange NSW to arrive 1 hr after the tank is setup; you may arrange later if your silicon not completely dried
3. after NSW in, check for any leakage; especially the joints of the pipes
4. test run all the pumps
5. put in sands and live rocks after switching off all pumps
6. setup the equipments; e.g. chiller, lights, skimmer, etc
I have done these a few times; and so far so good.
Cheers!