Why You Need a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move in Manassas
When moving into a new home, it’s easy to get wrapped up in coordinating all the packing and transportation details. Shoreview Moving and Storage believes that one of the most valuable parts of a low-stress move is preparing a moving essentials box—also known as an open-first box. This special box will contain all the essentials you’ll need for the first day or two in your new home, ensuring comfort, convenience, and organization while you unpack.
Creating an essentials box can save you from rummaging through stacks of packed boxes looking for basic necessities like fresh clothes, toiletries, chargers, or kitchen essentials. Whether you’re moving with children, animals, or seniors, tailoring your essentials box can help everyone adjust faster.
What is a Moving Essentials Box?
A moving essentials box is a box (or boxes) for immediate-need items after your move. Instead of unpacking everything at once, you’ll have your high-priority things together for quick use.
You can set up your essentials box for each household member or for specific uses, 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 things neat and stress-free.
What to Pack in Your Moving Essentials Box
Personal Items
Your essentials box should include personal care items that you use daily. 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)
Everyday Household Items
To make your move-in experience easier, include everyday items 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 busy day of moving, you’ll want a comfortable night’s sleep. Having these items ready will help you settle in quickly.
- 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
Personal Hygiene Basics
No one wants to start their first morning in a new home without bathroom basics. Make sure to include:
- Toilet paper
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Hairbrush or comb
- Towels and washcloths
- Shower curtain (if needed)
Kitchen Must-Haves for Your First Meals
Unpacking the kitchen can take a while, but you’ll still need some basic supplies 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)
Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Unexpected situations 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 individual needs, and packing accordingly will ensure everyone’s comfort during the move.
For Families with Kids
If you’re moving with children, making the move easier for little ones is a priority.
- 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, don’t forget to pack:
- 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 keep their essentials handy.
- Food and treats
- Water bowls
- Leash and pet waste bags
- A comfortable blanket or bed
Tips for Preparing Your Essentials Box
To make sure your essentials box meets your needs, keep these strategies in mind:
- Make Labels Bold and Easy to Spot
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. - Separate Essentials into Several Boxes
For large families, have multiple essentials boxes for each person or type of item rather than putting too much in just one box. - Prioritize the Most Important Items
Don’t overpack—only include what’s vital for your first 1-2 days. - Protect Key Documents During the Move
Never load valuable paperwork into the moving truck. - Plan for Unpacking Gradually
Having your essentials box ready means you won’t need to rush to unpack everything immediately, allowing you to move in at a speed that works for you.