What You Should Know About An Essentials Box
One of the most annoying things about moving into a new home is being unable to find anything because everything is in boxes: your shoes, your kitchen pots, your toothbrushes. They are all in boxes.
Sure, labeling the boxes with the room they are supposed to go in can be helpful. It’s even more helpful if you’ve taken the time to write down what’s in the box. But, that might not be enough when those boxes are stacked three high and four deep in every room. This is why you need an essentials box or boxes that are clearly labeled “Open First.”
Some people find it easier to pack an essentials box for each room, while others prefer to have one box for items the whole family will use and then smaller boxes for each individual family member. Whatever method you choose for packing, what goes into these boxes will look different for everyone. However, to help you get started here are a few things you should consider putting inside it.
Bathroom
- Toilet paper
- Hand soap
- Toiletries
- Towels
- A shower curtain if you are opposed to baths
Kitchen
- Dish soap
- Dishrag and drying towel
- Easy-to-prepare lunch, breakfast, snack, and dinner foods
- The pans and cooking utensils needed to prepare those meals
- Something to drink
- Enough plates, bowls, cups, and cutlery for each person to have their own. If you have them, camping dishes work great for your essentials box.
- Garbage bags
Bedroom
- Sleeping bag or bedding
- An air mattress
- A change of clothes. Don’t forget to think about what you will be doing after you arrive in your new home. For example, you’ll want something comfortable to wear while you unpack, but if you also have a business meeting to attend you’ll want to bring something suitable to wear to that as well.
- Slippers
Miscellaneous
- Pet food and dishes, plus a few toys to make them feel at home
- A knife or pair of scissors to open all of the other boxes. Although this might be more helpful if it’s in a bag.
- First aid kit and flashlight
- Hammer, drill, and screwdriver so you can start reassembling furniture and attaching bookshelves to the wall
- Important documents like your birth certificate, passports, and medical records
- Medicines
- Stuff to do if your truck is delayed, like books to read or an iPad to watch movies on
- Phones and chargers
If you are moving across town this probably seems like a lot of things to bring in your own vehicle. In fact, you can probably get away with clearly labeling them “open first” and shoving them on the moving truck. However, if you are moving to a new city, you might be too tired to try and find the closest convenience store before supper, and if the moving trunk is delayed you might not want to sleep on your floor. In that case, it’s a good idea to pack enough things to help you get through the first 24 hours.
But the only person who really knows what you and your family are comfortable dealing with is you, so look at your own situation and decide what you can and can’t live with before packing your essentials box. That way you’ll know you have everything you need.
If you are ready for your move, contact us for a quote today. We’re happy to help you move into your new place.
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Choose Hendra Moving and Storage, a Member of the Esteemed Allied Group.
I bought a new fridge, and the delivery people said, "there's no way we can take your huge fridge up the stairs." So I called Hendra Moving and Andrew came out with his tape measure, double checked and said, "yes, we can!" Today, Kelly and Ryan showed up and got the job done in style! Took a bit of maneuvering, but they made it look easy (and I know it really wasn't easy!). Thanks Hendra!
Mathieu Powell
Hendra Moving & Storage
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Do you provide packing and unpacking services?
Yes, we offer professional packing and unpacking services for an additional fee. Additionally, we provide high-quality moving supplies Victoria BC residents know they can rely on. These materials are available for purchase to ensure the safety of your belongings during transit.
Do you offer cleaning services?
Yes, we do offer cleaning services, which can be arranged separately for an additional charge. Right after our furniture movers Victoria BC leave our cleaning crew can help you leave your old space spotless and ready for the next occupants.
How far in advance should I book my move?
It's recommended to book your move as soon as you decide on your moving date. Our schedule tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons, so securing your desired date and Victoria moving services in advance ensures availability and helps us accommodate your relocation needs efficiently.
Can you help me relocate my car?
Absolutely. We offer safe and reliable British Columbia car transport to ensure your vehicle arrives at your new address securely and on time. Our team will handle all the logistics involved in transporting your vehicle, providing you with peace of mind throughout the process.
What should I do if I need to change my moving date?
If you need to change your moving date, please notify our movers Victoria BC as soon as possible. While we do our best to accommodate changes, availability may vary depending on our schedule. We'll work with you to reschedule your move to a date that works for both parties.
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As one of the top Victoria moving companies we offer a variety of storage options to meet your needs, including residential storage, commercial storage, student storage, military storage, realty storage, piano storage, fine art storage, climate-controlled storage, and more. Whether you need short-term or long-term storage solutions, we have options available to suit your requirements.