The Importance of Having a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move in Phoenix
When moving into a new home, it’s easy to become focused on all the moving tasks like packing and transportation. Starving Students 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 has all the essentials you’ll need for the first couple of days in your new home, helping you stay comfortable and prepared as you settle in.
Preparing an essentials box can help you avoid searching through piles of boxes looking for basic necessities like chargers, clean clothes, kitchen items, and toiletries. Whether you’re bringing the whole family—including pets and 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 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 amount and type of essentials boxes you need may change based on 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 daily necessities. This will make sure that even if everything else is still packed, you have easy access to your necessities.
- 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)
Household Must-Haves for Moving Day
To stay comfortable from day one, 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)
First Night Bedroom Items
After a busy day of moving, you’ll want a comfortable night’s sleep. Having these items ready will let you rest easily.
- 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 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 Must-Haves for Your First Meals
Unpacking all your kitchen items can take a while, but you will 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)
Emergency and Safety Items
Emergencies 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
Every move will have individual needs, and preparing the right essentials keeps everyone happy during the move.
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, be sure you have:
- 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
Tips for Preparing Your Essentials Box
To make sure your essentials box serves its purpose, use these best practices:
- Make Labels Bold and Easy to Spot
Clearly label your box with phrases like "Open-First" or "Essentials Box." When loading your moving truck, load it last to guarantee it's easy to unload first. - Use Multiple Boxes If Necessary
For large families, split items up by category or person into multiple boxes rather than cramming everything into one oversized box. - Limit to Absolute Necessities
Don’t overpack—make sure you’re just packing urgent must-haves. - Carry Important Papers With You
Never load valuable paperwork into the moving truck. - Unpack Your Home at Your Own Pace
Having your essentials box ready means there’s no pressure to open every box right away, allowing you to get comfortable as you go.