Be prepared: How to pack and unpack an essentials moving box

Moving is tough. Even when you have a lot of support and have hired the best moving professionals possible, it is still a long and tiring day.  

The last thing that you want to do when you finally reach your new home is to keep working. Yet, you now must live in the new space. A certain amount of effort needs to be made on that first night to allow you to settle in.

However, there are certain things you do to make the first night easier. Chief among them is to pack an essentials box before the move.  

An essentials box has two purposes. It ensures that you have everything handy to get through the first night and it gives you the piece of mind of knowing that your important documents and belongings are close at hand at all times.

Here's a concise guide on what to pack in your essentials box:

Personal documents:

Passports, birth certificates, driver’s licenses, credit cards, and other identification, professional certificates, medical records, and school records for kids.

Don’t forget vet records for pets, if applicable.

Personal care items:

Toothbrush, toothpaste, hair products, skincare items, and cosmetics.

Health essentials:

Prescription medicines and personal medical items.

Clothing and bedding:

Nightwear, a change of clothes, extra socks, underwear, and a pair of shoes.

Bed linens and a bath towel.

Electronics:

Personal electronic devices with chargers and adapters.

Entertainment and comfort:

Favorite toys, books, and games for children.

Special comfort items for younger children.

Additional items:

Any other items you wish to have on your first night.

Congratulations! You’ve arrived at your new space. Now what?

Once you’ve arrived at your new destination, it’s time to unpack your essentials box.

Here are some tips on how to best approach that task.  

‍Prioritize immediate needs:

Start by identifying and unpacking items crucial for the first few hours and the night ahead. Locate your personal documents, toiletries, and a change of clothes. Set up the bed linens and ensure you have immediate access to prescription medications, electronic devices, and any comfort items essential for your family members. By prioritizing immediate needs, you create a comfortable and functional space from the outset.

Create essential stations:

Organize your unpacking process by creating designated stations for different areas of your home. Begin with the bedroom, setting up the bed and arranging personal items. Move on to the bathroom, ensuring you have toiletries and towels readily available. Establish a mini kitchen station with essential utensils and food items. This strategic approach ensures a systematic and efficient unpacking process, allowing you to gradually transition to fully settling into your new space.

Remember, unpacking your essential box is a gradual process, and it's okay to take your time to arrange things according to your comfort. By prioritizing and organizing, you'll turn your new house into a home smoothly and efficiently.

MoveBuddy is there for you to help you through your next move. Make sure to check back often for more tips on how to best navigate moving or common household issues.