“Moving Day” has a way of stressing you. You are dealing with movers and keeping track of a hundred moving parts. During this time, what you need most urgently is often the last to be found.
That’s why you need an emergency box. This is a well-labeled box or bag that stays with you during the move. And this is what to put inside there:
Important documents
This is non-negotiable. The emergency box should have all your critical documents:
- Identification
- Lease agreements
- Moving contracts
- Insurance paperwork
- Medical records
- Passports
- Important financial paperwork pertaining to the move.
Do not place these in a standard moving carton. They might be lost or damaged. Herlihy Moving professionals recommend storing these items in a clearly labeled folder within the emergency box. Always keep the box in sight during the move.
Basic first aid and medications
Do you take prescription drugs? If so, keep several days of medication in your emergency box. In addition, have a basic first aid kit with:
- Pain relievers
- Bandages
- Antiseptic wipes
- Anything else you use regularly at home.
Moving day is an active process. It is common for individuals to experience:
- Minor injuries
- Headaches
- Overall fatigue.
That is why you should keep these items within reach. You can handle issues without opening boxes.
Phone chargers and power banks
Your phone is your lifeline. It comes in handy for:
- Calling movers
- Navigating to your new home
- Making payments
- Dealing with any unexpected issues.
A dead phone on moving day is a genuine crisis. Carry all the charging cables you need. Throw in a fully charged power bank for backup. Also, include laptop and tablet chargers if you’ll need them during the transition.
A change of clothes and basic toiletries
Moving day is a long, sweaty, and unpredictable affair. Pack a new change of clothes for each household member. Add essential toiletries like:
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Soap
- Towel
- Any other daily skin care items.
With these items, you can shower and change easily at the end of a long moving day.
Basic kitchen items and snacks
Hunger and dehydration sneak up on you faster than you expect during a move. Bring plenty of quick snacks:
- Nuts
- Granola bars
- Fruits
- Crackers
- A big water bottle for everyone.
Include a few basic kitchen items for the first morning in the new home:
- A kettle
- Coffee or tea
- A couple of mugs
- A simple breakfast option.
With these items, you can quickly make a hot drink in the new place, without having to open a single box. It will feel more like home.
A basic toolkit and cash
Have some cash on hand for:
- Unexpected purchases
- Tips
- Situations where card payments aren’t an option.
In addition, carry a basic toolbox with:
- Screwdriver
- Hammer
- Allen keys
- A utility knife.
You’ll need these almost immediately for tasks like:
- Assembling furniture
- Opening boxes
- Making small adjustments in the new home.
You don’t have to sift through tools stored somewhere in the back of the moving truck when you need them.
Summary
Your emergency box is your moving day survival pack. It contains all the items you might need before you unpack your other boxes.