The Importance of Having a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move in Cocoa Beach

When moving into a new home, it’s easy to become focused on all the moving tasks like 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 has the essential items you’ll need for the first 24-48 hours in your new home, ensuring comfort, convenience, and organization while you unpack.

Having an essentials box can keep you from digging through moving boxes looking for basic necessities like fresh clothes, toiletries, chargers, or kitchen essentials. Whether you’re moving with kids, pets, or elderly family members, tailoring your essentials box can ensure your first night goes smoothly.

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 digging through all your boxes right away, you’ll have your must-have items in one place for easy access.

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 keep things neat and stress-free.

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 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)

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)

First Night Bedroom Items

After a long moving day, 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

Personal Hygiene Basics

No one wants to start their first morning in a new home without bathroom basics. 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

Getting the kitchen unpacked 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)

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

Different households have individual needs, and preparing the right essentials keeps everyone happy 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, 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 meets your needs, use these best practices:

1. Make Labels Bold and Easy to Spot
   Use clear labels for quick identification, like "Open-First” or “Essentials Box." When loading your moving truck, load it last to guarantee it's easy to unload first.
2. Use Multiple Boxes If Necessary
   For large families, have multiple essentials boxes for each person or type of item rather than stuffing all your items into a single large box.
3. Only Pack What You Need Right Away
   Don’t overpack—keep it limited to items you’ll absolutely need within the first 24-48 hours.
4. Protect Key Documents During the Move
   Never load valuable paperwork into the moving truck.
5. Plan for Unpacking Gradually
   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.

Moving Forward: Getting Help with Packing and Moving in Cocoa Beach