Top Reasons to Use a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move in Decatur
When moving to a new home, it’s easy to become focused on all the moving tasks like packing and transportation. Lambert Moving Systems believes that one of the most important aspects of a stress-free move is preparing a moving essentials box—also known as an open-first box. This special box has everything you’ll need for the first 24-48 hours in your new home, helping you stay comfortable and prepared as you settle in.
Creating an essentials box can help you avoid searching through piles of boxes looking for basic necessities like toiletries, chargers, or kitchen items. Whether you’re moving with children, animals, or seniors, tailoring your essentials box can make settling in much easier.
What is a Moving Essentials Box?
A moving essentials box is a set of boxes or bags containing the most important items you’ll need immediately after arriving at your new home. Instead of opening every box as soon as you arrive, you’ll have your essential belongings ready to grab.
You can organize your essentials box by category or by family member, depending on your household’s needs. The size and number of boxes will vary depending on the scale of your move, but the goal is to keep it manageable and well-organized.
What Should Go in Your Moving Essentials Box
Personal Items
Your essentials box should include everyday items you rely on. This will make sure that even if everything else is packed away, you have your must-haves close by.
- Prescription medications
- Glasses or contact lenses with solution
- A few changes of clothes
- Phone and laptop chargers
- Important documents (passports, birth certificates, IDs, leases, medical records)
- Wallet, keys, and checkbook
- Work materials (if you need to resume work immediately)
Day-One Home Essentials
To keep your first day and night comfortable, include essential household goods that you use regularly.
- Toilet paper and paper towels
- Hand soap, dish soap, and cleaning wipes
- Garbage bags
- Scissors or a box cutter
- Flashlights and batteries
- Emergency cash
- Multi-tool or small tool kit (hammer, screwdriver, pliers)
Bedroom Must-Haves
After a full day of moving, you’ll want a comfortable night’s sleep. Having these items ready will let you rest easily.
- Pillows, blankets, and sheets
- Pajamas and an extra set of clothes
- Curtains (if your new home doesn’t have blinds or drapes)
- Alarm clock or nightlight
Bathroom Must-Haves for Move-In
No one wants to start their first morning in a new home without basic hygiene items. Make sure to include:
- Toilet paper
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Hairbrush or comb
- Towels and washcloths
- Shower curtain (if needed)
Kitchen Essentials
Unpacking the kitchen can take a while, but you will need some essential items to eat and drink during the first few days.
- Disposable plates, cups, and utensils
- Coffee maker or kettle with coffee and tea supplies
- Non-perishable snacks and bottled water
- Can opener
- Small pot or pan for simple meals
- Dish sponge and dish soap
- Pet food and bowls (if applicable)
Emergency and Safety Items
Surprises can happen during a move. Be prepared with these must-haves:
- First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, allergy medication)
- Emergency contact list (local emergency numbers, doctor, vet, close family members)
- Fire extinguisher
- Power strip and extra batteries
Specialty Moving Essentials for Families, Pets, and Seniors
Every move will have special requirements, and having what each person or pet needs makes move-in easier.
For Families with Kids
If you’re moving with children, keeping them comfortable and entertained is essential.
- Favorite toys, books, and stuffed animals
- Snacks and juice boxes
- Extra diapers, wipes, and baby formula
- Nightlight and extra set of pajamas
For Seniors
If an elderly family member is moving with you, make sure to include:
- Personal medications and medical supplies
- Mobility aids like a walker or cane
- Warm blankets or clothing for comfort
For Pets
Moving can be stressful for pets, so make sure their comfort items are included.
- Food and treats
- Water bowls
- Leash and pet waste bags
- A comfortable blanket or bed
How to Pack and Arrange Your Essentials Box
To make sure your essentials box is as effective as possible, follow these tips when packing:
- Label Clearly and Keep It Accessible
Mark your essentials box with bold labels such as "Open First" or "Moving Essentials." When loading your moving truck, load it last to guarantee it's easy to unload first. - Divide Items by Category Into Multiple Boxes When Needed
For large families, it’s better to use separate boxes for different categories rather than cramming everything into one oversized box. - Only Pack What You Need Right Away
Don’t overpack—only include what’s vital for your first 1-2 days. - Carry Important Papers With You
Never load valuable paperwork into the moving truck. - Unpack Your Home at Your Own Pace
Having your essentials box ready means you can settle in slowly with less stress, allowing you to move in at a speed that works for you.