The Importance of Having a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move in Ann Arbor
When moving to a new place, it’s easy to become focused on all the moving tasks like packing and transportation. Palmer Moving Services 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 contains everything you’ll need for the first couple of days in your new home, helping you stay comfortable and prepared as you settle in.
Creating an essentials box can save you from rummaging through stacks of packed boxes looking for basic necessities like toiletries, chargers, or kitchen items. Whether you’re bringing the whole family—including pets and seniors, tailoring your essentials box can make settling in much easier.
What is a Moving Essentials Box?
A moving essentials box is a box or bag with all your must-haves for your first day in your new place. Instead of unpacking everything at once, you’ll have your high-priority things together for quick use.
You can sort your essentials box based on needs or by person, depending on your household’s needs. The amount and type of essentials boxes you need may change based on 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 easy access to your necessities.
- 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 make your move-in experience easier, 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 busy day of moving, you’ll want a comfortable night’s sleep. Having these items ready will make your first night smooth.
- 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 essential toiletries. 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 all your kitchen items 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)
Emergency and Safety Items
Emergencies can happen during a move. Make sure you have these safety items on hand:
- 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
Different households 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, 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, 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:
- Make Labels Bold and Easy to Spot
Clearly label your box with phrases like "Open-First" or "Essentials Box." When loading your moving truck, place it last so it’s the first thing unloaded at your new home. - Use Multiple Boxes If Necessary
For large families, have multiple essentials boxes for each person or type of item rather than stuffing all your items into a single large box. - Only Pack What You Need Right Away
Don’t overpack—only include what’s vital for your first 1-2 days. - Keep Valuable Documents Secure
Never load valuable paperwork into the moving truck. - Take Your Time Getting Settled
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.