Moving Day Essentials
Move-in Day Essentials
Have you ever heard someone say, “I love moving!” Probably not. Moving is stressful whether you’re moving across town or across the country. But even if you are lucky enough to hire movers to handle the packing, the loading, the transport, and the unloading, there are still a few essential steps you should take for an optimal “move-in” day. You’ll want to have these key items in your possession on moving day. That means, in your hands, in your car, in easy reach – not stowed among the boxes on a truck. These move-in day essentials include the following:
Cleaning Supplies
Fingers crossed, the home you’re moving into is clean. If you’re moving into a new construction home, it should be spotless, however, even then you may find some construction dust. But in the case of a resale home, you expect the previous owners to leave it fresh and clean for you. Still, movers can track in dirt while unloading. So, be sure to have a broom and dustpan handy, or a vacuum. Have a roll of paper towels and your favorite general cleaning liquid. None of this is for deep cleaning – just a couple of items to clean up messes as you get in the door. Bringing dish soap and a sponge for the kitchen sink will also come in handy. And lastly, make sure you have a couple of trash bags.
Clean Linens & PJ’s
Have a fresh set of sheets and towels on hand. Even if you’re making up a mattress that is still on the floor, at least you’ll have clean sheets and a clean towel for the shower you’ll be craving. You’ll also want some pajamas and a change of clothes. And speaking of a shower – throw a shower curtain into your essentials box.
Toiletries
First and foremost, bring the toilet paper. Have a bar of soap, your toothbrush and toothpaste, and shampoo. You’ll be too exhausted to run out to the drugstore if you can’t find these items. Furthermore, make sure you have a couple of days worth of required medications with you.
Paper plates and Utensils
This is the day it is worth it to pay for food delivery. Whether you order a pizza or use DoorDash or Uber Eats, you’re going to need and want, something to put it on, and something to eat it with. Using disposable plates and utensils makes this super easy. And if you’re lucky enough to have found the box with your dishes in it, at least you can wash them after you eat because you brought your dish soap with you.
Documents and Valuables
It’s a good idea to keep your transportable valuables in your possession, rather than pack them up and place them on the big truck. This may not always be practical, but if possible, keep the family jewels near you, or in a safe deposit box. As far as documents go, you should of course have your ID on you, and any papers relating to your move in the event they are required along the way. Also, your credit cards and/or your checkbook so you can pay the movers.
Items for Children and Pets
Moving is stressful for everyone in the family, not just the parents. So if you have children, make sure they have their favorite snuggly blanket or stuffed animal. Ensure you have dog or cat food with you, and a bowl for water. You’ll want a dog leash too – and some doggie bags so you can clean up and make a good first impression on your new neighbors.
Electronic Devices and Chargers
Make sure everyone in the family has chargers with them for their electronic device of choice. In fact, it is likely that your WIFI will not be connected yet. So, download movies or games so that you can access some entertainment until your WIFI is set up. A charger for your phone is essential as it will likely be your only form of communication until you’re settled in.
The Coffee Pot
If you’re a coffee drinker, pack up the coffee and the coffee pot so you can start out the morning after your move like a human being. Chances are you’ll be exhausted and you’ll want a cup of coffee in order to survey the boxes and figure out where to begin. To that end, pack a small cooler with your creamer and sugar and your favorite mug, so you’re ready to take on the day.
Moving is stressful, but if you have these essentials on hand, in your possession, and in your control, your first evening in your new home can be the joyful experience it should be. After all, you’ve just bought a new home, and that is a HUGE accomplishment of which you should be very proud. Holiday Builders has been building new homes for 40 years. The employee-owned homebuilder offers a variety of floorplans throughout Florida and Coastal Alabama, to meet the needs of families of all sizes and all budgets. To learn more about plans, locations, and pricing, visit HolidayBuilders.com.
