Moving house is a big event in most peoples’ lives. From the moment you confirm the exchange of contracts, there is so much that you need to organise, from booking a removal company, to cancelling your utilities at your current address, and so much more. By the time your moving day rolls around, a lot of the work will have been done over the preceding weeks and months. However, this remains probably the busiest day in the whole process.
To ensure a smooth transition, having an essentials checklist is crucial. It helps you cover all necessary items across various categories, making sure nothing is overlooked.
As one of the city’s leading removal companies, we have helped thousands of customers with their house removals in Leicester and the surrounding area. We always recommend that they put together an essentials box for the day of their big move. In this article, we’ll discuss the kinds of things you might want to put in it.
Preparing Your Essentials Box
Preparing your essentials box is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and stress-free moving experience. This box should contain all the essential items you’ll need immediate access to on moving day and the first night in your new home. To start, gather a clear plastic container or a sturdy box with a lid. Label the box clearly as “ESSENTIALS” or “OPEN FIRST” to ensure easy identification. Next, gather all the essential items you’ll need, such as toiletries, medications, phone chargers, and a change of clothes. Pack these items in the box in an organized and accessible manner, making sure to include a list of contents on the outside of the box. This way, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips, making the transition to your new home much smoother.
What is a moving essentials box?
Like the name suggests, a moving essentials box contains those things that you really can’t do without during the course of the moving day. Keeping your moving essential box separate and transporting it with you means that whatever happens during the day, you’ll always be well prepared and have the most important items to hand.
Whatever the reason, there will be times during your moving day where you are in your new home and your belongings haven’t arrived or, at the very least, haven’t been unpacked. Rather than rooting through dozens of boxes to get the main items you need for the day, putting together essentials boxes for different categories—such as kitchen items, personal care, and pet supplies—ensures they’re all in one place when you need them most.
Why You Need a Moving Essentials Box
Having a moving essentials box is essential for a successful and stress-free move. This box provides immediate access to the essential items you’ll need on moving day and the first night in your new home, saving you time and reducing stress. With a moving essentials box, you’ll be able to focus on unpacking and settling into your new home, rather than frantically searching for necessities. Additionally, a moving essentials box can help prevent last-minute trips to the store for forgotten items, saving you money and reducing hassle. By having all your essential items in one place, you can ensure a more organized and efficient move.
What goes into a moving essentials box?
The specific contents will vary from person to person and, of course, you know better than anybody what sort of items you’re going to need. This list should act as a guide to the kind of thing you might want to include:
A comprehensive house checklist can help ensure a smooth transition into your new home by focusing on essential items and avoiding unnecessary overspending.
Cleaning supplies essentials
- washing up liquid
Having the right cleaning supplies is crucial for quick touch-ups and managing unexpected messes.
- dish towel and a dishcloth/scouring pad
- all-purpose cleaner
- bin bags
Kitchen essentials
- Packing a few items is crucial to make the initial days in your new home easier. Essential kitchen items such as a kettle, instant coffee or tea bags, milk, sugar, and plates, cups, and cutlery (enough for one per person) can significantly improve your first-night experience.
Food and drink essentials
- something easy to prepare for lunch or dinner – alternatively, get the menu or the website for a local take-out place
- easy snacks – crisps, biscuits, cereal bars – something you can just open and eat when you need to
- cold drinks – water, soft drinks, juice – maybe even a celebratory beer for once the jobs done
- if you have a pet, don’t forget food and snacks for them too – plus something for them to eat out of
- cooler bag – if you don’t know when the fridge is going to turn up, this is vital
Bathroom and first night essentials
- toilet paper
- towels
- pyjamas and a change of clothes
- toiletries (don’t forget toothbrushes and toothpaste)
Other essentials and pet supplies
- basic tools – screwdriver (flat and Philips varieties), hammer, allen keys, and an adjustable spanner. These basic tools are essential for managing tasks like assembling furniture and ensuring your home is functional and comfortable right from the start.
- documents and paperwork you might need for moving day
- a device to play some music while you unpack
- penknife, scissors, or craft knife for the easy opening of boxes
- first aid kit
- torch and spare batteries
- chargers for any electrical devices you’ll be carrying with you e.g. chargers for phones, electric toothbrushes, devices, any power tools
Children essentials
With kids in tow, it’s crucial to pack essential items for each family member to ensure comfort and organization during the move. You know better than anyone what will do the trick, whether it’s toys, books, comics, or something else.
If you’re planning on moving home in Leicester, be sure to contact your local, reliable removal company today. Call Stokes Removals and Storage on to discuss your requirements and get a free, no-obligation quote for our services.
Electronics and Communication
When it comes to electronics and communication, it’s essential to have the right items in your essentials box. This includes:
- Mobile phones and chargers
- Laptop or tablet and chargers
- Power bank
- Extension lead
- Batteries
- A portable charger for your phone or other devices
Having these items in your essentials box will ensure you stay connected and can communicate with family members, movers, and utility companies on moving day. Staying connected is crucial for coordinating the move and handling any unexpected issues that may arise.
Important Documents and Aid Kit
In addition to electronics and communication, it’s also essential to have important documents and an aid kit in your essentials box. This includes:
- Identification documents (passports, driving licenses)
- Moving paperwork and contracts
- New home documents (lease, mortgage papers)
- Insurance information
- Medical records
- School records (if applicable)
- A first aid kit containing painkillers, plasters, and other basic medical supplies
Having these documents and an aid kit in your essentials box will ensure you have access to important information and can respond to any medical emergencies that may arise. Keeping these items handy will provide peace of mind and help you handle any situation that comes your way.
Additional Essentials (Pets and Comfort Items)
Finally, it’s essential to include additional essentials in your box, such as pet supplies and comfort items. This includes:
- Pet food and treats
- Food and water bowls
- Leash and collar
- Pet medication and medical equipment
- Favorite toys and blankets
- A few comfort items, such as a favorite book or pillow
Having these items in your essentials box will ensure your pets are well cared for and you have access to comfort items that can help reduce stress and anxiety on moving day. By including these essential items in your moving essentials box, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful and stress-free move.