Change is the only constant in life," and nowhere is this truer than when you're preparing to move to a new home.
Each year, an astonishing 31 million Americans pack up their lives and move to new dwellings. It is a task that is as overwhelming as it is exhilarating.
But what does it really take to move smoothly from one home to another?
It’s not just about hauling boxes; it’s about careful planning and knowing exactly what essentials will make your move less stressful and more efficient.
Surprisingly, over 44% of Americans feel moving is the most stressful event in their lives, even more than planning a wedding or finding a new job.
That’s why having a clear list of moving essentials is not just helpful—it’s crucial. From the right kind of packing supplies to the must-haves for your first night in a new place, knowing these essentials can transform a hectic move into a series of simple steps.
Let’s discuss the most critical moving essentials you need when you move from your old home to your new one.
Why Do You Need a Moving Essentials Box?
Just think this for a moment: after a long day of moving, you finally arrive at your new home. Your belongings are boxed up and stacked in every corner of your new space. Now, you face the difficult task of unpacking, but all you want is a quick shower, a simple meal, and a good night's sleep.
This scenario is exactly why you need a moving essentials box—a lifesaver that makes your first 24 hours in a new place as stress-free as possible.
What to Include in Your Moving Essentials Box
Basic Toiletries: Include items like toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, shampoo, and a towel. The last thing you want is to rummage through dozens of boxes for your toothbrush after an exhausting day.
A Few Dishes and Eating Utensils: Pack a small set of plates, cups, and cutlery along with a kitchen knife. These will come in handy for your first meal before you have the energy to unpack your kitchen.
Bedding: Include a set of sheets, a pillow, and a blanket so you can ensure a good night’s sleep. Arriving to find these items easily will be a relief.
Change of Clothes: Pack comfortable clothing suitable for unpacking and a few extra sets for the days ahead before everything is fully unpacked.
Important Documents: Keep your documents like IDs, lease or purchase papers, and moving company contracts within easy reach to avoid any added stress.
Basic Tools: A screwdriver, a hammer, and some nails might be necessary for assembling furniture or making quick fixes in your new home.
Snacks and Simple Foods: Include some non-perishable snacks, bottled water, and perhaps instant coffee or tea bags to help keep your energy up.
Medications and First Aid Kit: Remember prescription medications, over-the-counter pain relievers, and basic first aid supplies for minor cuts or headaches.
Chargers for Electronic Devices: Ensure you have your phone and laptop chargers and perhaps an extension cord easily accessible to keep your devices powered up.
Cleaning Supplies: A roll of paper towels, disinfectant wipes, and trash bags will likely come in handy as you settle in and clean up your space.
The Ultimate Moving Checklist
Two Months Before Moving
Start by sorting through your belongings. Decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. This decluttering phase will not only simplify your move but also reduce your moving costs.
Research Movers
Don’t just pick any mover; research and compare quotes from licensed and reputable moving companies. Ensure they have good reviews and proper credentials to handle your belongings safely.
Packing Like a Pro
Materials You'll Need:
Sturdy boxes in various sizes
Packing tape for sealing boxes
Bubble wrap for fragile items
Marker pens for labeling
Specialty boxes for items like TVs and mirrors
Room-by-Room Packing Guide
Kitchen: Pack dishes, glassware, and other fragile items with plenty of padding. Heavier items should go in smaller boxes(
Bedroom: Use wardrobe boxes to keep clothes on hangers and wrinkle-free. Pack bedding and curtains in vacuum-seal bags to save space.
Bathroom: Keep a separate box for essential toiletries and medications that you’ll need immediately upon arrival(
First Day Essentials
Prepare an essentials kit for the first few days while you’re still unpacking. Include items like:
Change of clothes
Basic toiletries
Essential cooking utensils
Quick meals and snacks
Basic tools and cleaning supplies
This essentials kit will help you maintain a semblance of normalcy as you settle into your new space.
Safeguarding Your Move
Insurance and Documentation: Ensure you have all your moving documentation handy, including contracts, insurance papers, and inventory lists. If you’re renting a truck, make sure the rental agreement, insurance, and any necessary permits are sorted out before moving day.
On Moving Day:
Double-check everything: Before the movers arrive, double-check that everything is packed and labeled.
Essential documents and valuables: Keep these on you at all times during the move.
Setting Up Your New Home
Immediate Unpacking: Set up essential furniture, like beds and couches, first. Then, unpack your kitchen and bathroom items so these spaces are functional.
Utilities Setup: Ensure all utilities are set up and working within the first week of moving in. This includes water, electricity, gas, internet, and security systems.
