If we had a quarter for everytime someone said that they’d be unpacked within a couple of days, but really fully unpacked weeks later, we’d be rich. Packing in and of itself is time-consuming and oftentimes stressful. When it comes to moving day, you can pretty much guarantee that you’ll be too tired to unpack all of your belongings that same day. For this, most people suggest packing an “overnight” box. Something that will get you through a day or two of living out of boxes. But, if you’re honest, it’ll take you much longer than a day or two to unpack your entire home. In fact, you probably won’t unpack much that entire week. This is why today’s moving tip is to pack an “essentials” box for each room in the house. Trust us, your “essentials” box will be a lifesaver—and can even last you an entire month for those who are serious procrastinators. So what rooms should you create an “essentials” box for? First, all of the main rooms—think kitchen, living room, bathroom, and bedroom. Some “essential boxes” will be larger than others. Just remember, that an “essentials” box only includes absolute necessities. A box that is too large may feel overwhelming.
Moving Tip: Kitchen Essentials Box
This box is the key to not eating takeout for an entire month! This box will probably be your largest. You’ll want to include items that help you cook as well as kitchen pantry go-tos. Here’s the list for a kitchen essentials moving box:
- 2 or 3 pots that you use frequently, like a frying pan, medium-sized pot and TK
- Place settings: plate, bowl, spoon, fork and knife (One set for each household member)
- Chef’s knives—skip the block and wrap just 1 or 2
- Dish soap and sponge
- Pasta, rice and some canned goods
Moving Tip: Bathroom Essentials Box
Try not to forget anything with this box, as your essentials are actually your essentials. This box is really dependent on your specific needs, but here’s a general list to go by:
- Toothpaste, toothbrush, face wash, lotion, body wash, bath sponge, shampoo and conditioner
- Shower curtain and hooks
- Toilet paper
- Prescription medication
- Makeup basics
- Mini first aid kit
Moving Tip: Bedroom Essentials Box
Moving day is draining physically and mentally. You’ll want to ensure that you’ll have a good night’s rest by thinking ahead and building this quick essentials box for the bedroom:
- Sheet set
- Quilt
- Pillows
- Nightlight (for the kids)
Moving Tip: General “Essentials” Box
This should be one of your smallest boxes, that holds a mishmash of things you’ll need, for the living room and throughout the house.
- Remote controls (Take it from us, keeping track of these from the very beginning will save yourself a major headache.)
- Batteries
- Light bulbs
- Scissors
- Tape
- Extension cord/surge protector
With essentials boxes ready for each room, you can also skip the frantic searching for things like the light bulbs or the first aid kit. You won’t have to worry about getting everything unpacked right away and can instead start to enjoy your new place right away! Get more moving tips from the Smart Price Moving blog. Get a moving quote to hire professional packers & movers from Smart Price Moving.