Top Reasons to Use a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move in Asheville
When moving to a new home, it’s easy to get wrapped up in coordinating all the packing and transportation details. Carey Moving and Storage 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 will contain everything you’ll need for the first day or two in your new home, helping you stay comfortable and prepared as you settle in.
Preparing 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 kids, pets, or elderly family members, tailoring your essentials box can help everyone adjust faster.
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 must-have items in one place for easy access.
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 make sure it’s simple and easy to handle.
What Should Go 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 still packed, 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)
Household Must-Haves for Moving Day
To stay comfortable from day one, include everyday basics 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 long moving day, 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 Essentials
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 Must-Haves for Your First Meals
Unpacking the kitchen can take a while, but you’ll still 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
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 unique needs, and preparing the right essentials keeps everyone happy 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 make sure their comfort items are included.
- Food and treats
- Water bowls
- Leash and pet waste bags
- A comfortable blanket or bed
Packing and Organizing Your Essentials Box
To make sure your essentials box is as effective as possible, use these best practices:
- Label Clearly and Keep It Accessible
Use clear labels for quick identification, 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. - 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. - Prioritize the Most Important Items
Don’t overpack—make sure you’re just packing urgent must-haves. - 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.