Top Reasons to Use a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move in Reston

When moving to a new home, it’s easy to get caught up in the logistics of packing and transportation. Shoreview 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 contains the essential items you’ll need for the first 24-48 hours in your new home, ensuring comfort, convenience, and organization while you unpack.

Creating 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 children, animals, or seniors, tailoring your essentials box can ensure your first night goes smoothly.

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 unpacking everything at once, you’ll have your essential belongings ready to grab.

You can sort your essentials box based on needs or by person, depending on your household’s needs. The total boxes or bags you use depends on your household size and distance, 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 packed away, 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)

Day-One Home Essentials

To keep your first day and night comfortable, 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)

First Night Bedroom Items

After a full 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 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 Essentials

Unpacking the kitchen can take a while, but you will 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

Surprises can happen during a move. Have these essentials ready just in case:

• 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 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, don’t forget to pack:

• 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 meets your needs, keep these strategies in mind:

1. 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.
2. Divide Items by Category Into Multiple Boxes When Needed
   For large families, it’s better to use separate boxes for different categories rather than putting too much in just one box.
3. Limit to Absolute Necessities
   Don’t overpack—only include what’s vital for your first 1-2 days.
4. Carry Important Papers With You
   Bring sensitive documents with you instead of putting them in the truck.
5. Unpack Your Home at Your Own Pace
   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.

Next Steps: Getting Help with Packing and Moving in Reston