Why You Need a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move

When moving into a new home, it’s easy to get caught up in the logistics of 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 the essential items 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 keep you from digging through moving 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 help everyone adjust faster.

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 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 Should Go in Your Moving Essentials Box

Personal Items

Your essentials box should include daily necessities. This will make sure that even if everything else is still packed, you have your basics within reach.

• 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)

Household Must-Haves for Moving Day

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 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 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

Getting the kitchen unpacked can take a while, but you’ll 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)

Move-In Safety Must-Haves

Emergencies 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

Different households 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, 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 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 is as effective as possible, follow these tips when packing:

1. Label Clearly and Keep It Accessible
   Use clear labels for quick identification, like "Open-First” or “Essentials Box." When loading your moving truck, load it last to guarantee it's easy to unload first.
2. Divide Items by Category Into Multiple Boxes When Needed
   For large families, have multiple essentials boxes for each person or type of item rather than cramming everything into one oversized box.
3. Limit to Absolute Necessities
   Don’t overpack—only include what’s vital for your first 1-2 days.
4. Keep Valuable Documents Secure
   Important paperwork should be carried with you rather than packed in a moving truck.
5. Unpack Your Home at Your Own Pace
   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.

Next Steps: Getting Help with Packing and Moving