The Importance of Having a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move in Des Moines
When moving to a new home, it’s easy to get wrapped up in coordinating all the packing and transportation details. Western Van 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, helping you stay comfortable and prepared as you settle in.
Having an essentials box can keep you from digging through moving boxes looking for basic necessities like chargers, clean clothes, kitchen items, and toiletries. Whether you’re moving with children, animals, or 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 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 everyday items you rely on. This will ensure that even if everything else is still packed, 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 keep your first day and night comfortable, 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 Essentials
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 Essentials
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 Must-Haves for Your First Meals
Getting the kitchen unpacked can take a while, but you’ll need some kitchen necessities 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
Surprises 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
Every household will have individual needs, and having what each person or pet needs makes move-in easier.
For Families with Kids
If you’re moving with children, keeping them comfortable and entertained is essential.
- 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 have their necessities ready.
- 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 meets your needs, follow these tips when packing:
- Label Clearly and Keep It Accessible
Mark your essentials box with bold labels such as "Open First" or "Moving Essentials." When loading your moving truck, make sure it’s packed last and unloaded first. - 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. - Prioritize the Most Important Items
Don’t overpack—keep it limited to items you’ll absolutely need within the first 24-48 hours. - Protect Key Documents During the Move
Bring sensitive documents with you instead of putting them in the truck. - Take Your Time Getting Settled
Having your essentials box ready means you can settle in slowly with less stress, allowing you to settle in at your own pace.