Why You Need a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move in Virginia

When moving to a new home, it’s easy to get wrapped up in coordinating all the packing and transportation details. Bayshore 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 has the essential items you’ll need for the first day or two in your new home, ensuring comfort, convenience, and organization while you unpack.

Having an essentials box can save you from rummaging through stacks of packed 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 help everyone adjust faster.

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 opening every box as soon as you arrive, 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 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 to Pack 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 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)

Day-One Home Essentials

To make your move-in experience easier, include essential household goods 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 busy day of moving, you’ll want a comfortable night’s sleep. Having these items ready will help you settle in quickly.

• 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

Personal Hygiene Basics

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)

First-Night Kitchen Supplies

Unpacking all your kitchen items can take a while, but you’ll 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)

Be Prepared for the Unexpected

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

Every household will have special requirements, and packing accordingly will ensure everyone’s comfort during the move.

For Families with Kids

If you’re moving with children, helping kids feel secure is key.

• 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 serves its purpose, use these best practices:

1. Label Clearly and Keep It Accessible
   Clearly label your box with phrases 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.
2. Separate Essentials into Several Boxes
   For large families, split items up by category or person into multiple boxes rather than putting too much in just one box.
3. Limit to Absolute Necessities
   Don’t overpack—make sure you’re just packing urgent must-haves.
4. Carry Important Papers With You
   Bring sensitive documents with you instead of putting them in the truck.
5. 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.

Next Steps: Getting Help with Packing and Moving in Virginia