No matter where or how far you’re moving, packing is an essential part of the residential moving process. And packing an essentials kit for when you arrive at your new home is invaluable.
An essentials kit will help keep you organized. It keeps all of your necessary items together so that when you reach your new home, the important stuff you need right away is at your fingertips. Your essentials kit is the box you load up last, keep with you, and unpack first.
Consider this essentials kit your first-night survival box with things like a basic toolkit, electronics chargers, and cleaning materials that will help make the process smooth.
Each family’s essentials kit should be a little different and unique to them. Chances are you can’t start packing your box right away, so it is key to make a list before you start packing your house.
Here are some suggestions about how to pack your essentials kit.
Gather Cleaning Supplies
Chances are you did a deep cleaning of your new home before the move. But on move-in day, you likely will need to do some more light cleaning. These cleaning tools will also be handy throughout move-in day.
- Sponges
- Paper towels
- All-purpose cleaner
- Glass cleaner
- Dish soap
- Hand soap for each sink
- Broom and dustpan
- Trash bags
Assemble a Small Tool Kit
You will probably need a few tools to get you through the first couple of days at your new home. These basic tools will come in handy for opening boxes, reassembling furniture, and repairing things as you go.
- Boxcutter
- Hammer
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Scissors
- Tape
- Flashlight
Select Snacks and Kitchen Essentials
Keep up your energy on moving day by staying nourished and hydrated. Pack a few nutritional snacks, non-perishable foods, and beverages to help you get through the day. You might want to plan ahead about how you will handle meals on moving day. Decide and plan if you will make something or opt for carryout.
- Bottled water
- Energy Drinks
- Protein bars
- Non-perishable foods
- Paper plates
- Cutlery
- Napkins
- Cups
- Pet’s food and bowls
Choose Personal Comfort Items
Since you don’t know exactly when you will have access to your personal belongings following your move, plan to include some crucial ones in your essentials kit.
- Medicines
- Toiletries
- Toilet paper
- Bathroom towels
- Contact lens supplies
- Bandaids
- Alcohol wipes
- Antibacterial cream
- Pajamas
- Change of clothes for a day or two
- Phone charger
- Toys for kids
- Dog leash
Include Bedding
As soon as the beds are assembled, use the bedding packed in your essentials kits to make the beds. You will want to have a comfortable spot to rest on moving night so that you’re ready for a full day of unpacking and organizing the next day.
- Bedding
- Pillows
Complete Your Essentials Kit
Label your essentials kit as soon as you have it packed, then make sure it’s the last item loaded onto the moving truck or your vehicle so that it’s the first box to come off. It might be more convenient to keep your moving day essential kit with you in your own car. Keeping it with you is particularly handy if you arrive at your new home before the movers.
Additional Moving Help
Your personalized essentials kits will help you on moving day. Let us also help you navigate through the residential moving process. Contact us today for a quote.