When you’re moving house you need to be very organized. It’s easy to get so caught up with labeling boxes and coordinating logistics that you forget to set aside the items you’ll actually need on the day itself.
That’s where a moving day essentials checklist comes in handy. Having a go-to “welcome” box filled with must-haves will make the first few hours in your new space more comfortable—and a lot less stressful.
Whether you’re tackling a local move or relocating long-distance, these essentials will help keep things running smoothly from the moment the truck arrives.
If you’re still planning your move, check out our full guide on how to prepare for a move.
Moving Day Essentials Checklist
1. Keys, cash and a phone list
Make sure you have your wallet, your car keys and the list of contacts you may need in a safe and accessible place – last thing you need is to unpack the truck to find your keys!
2. A packing/unpacking kit
Scissors, box cutters, packing tape, labels, and a couple of permanent markers—these are your go-to tools on both ends of the move. Have them ready in a toolkit or zipped pouch so you’re not scrambling when it’s time to open up or reseal boxes. Need supplies? We offer a range of quality packing materials to make the job easier.
3. Tea, coffee, drinks, and snacks
There’s nothing worse than not being able to find the coffee pot when you’re desperate for a cup of coffee! Pack a kettle, mugs, tea, coffee and sugar in a separate bag along with sodas and snacks for the day.
4. Basic kitchen utensils
You may not plan on cooking the day that you arrive, but even if you’re ordering take out a knife, fork, spoon and plate for each member of the household will be welcome.
5. Paper towels and toilet paper
An absolute must. You don’t want to realize too late that you didn’t pack these. Place a few rolls in your essentials box so you’re covered from the first moment you arrive. You don’t want to get caught without toilet paper for the first night in your new home!
6. Basic toiletries and medicines
Likewise, this is essential. Pack soap, washcloths, razors, deodorant and makeup to last a couple of days until you finish unpacking. Include a couple of towels. Prescription meds, painkillers, and allergy tablets should be packed in your welcome box to avoid rummaging through your other boxes if moving day gives you a headache.
7. Bedding and towels
You’ll be exhausted by the end of moving day. Nothing beats being able to fall straight into a made bed. Pack sheets, pillows, and one set of blankets for each bed you plan to sleep in the first night. A sleep mask or white noise app wouldn’t hurt either if your new neighborhood is unfamiliar.
8. Children’s toys
If you have young children, the move will be made a whole less stressful if you have their favorite toys on hand come moving day, to keep them occupied and happy while you sort the house out.
9. Pet food and beds
If you have pets, realize that they are probably just as stressed out by the move as you. Make them feel at ease by ensuring that their food, bowls, and beds are easily accessible when moving house.
10. Phone and laptop chargers
One of the things that can sour anybody’s mood very quickly is a dead or dying phone battery. Make sure that everyone in the household stays happily connected by packing chargers for all devices in your welcome box.
Whether you’re moving locally or long distance and need the services of a reputable moving company, contact Isaac’s Moving & Storage today for a free quote.
Bonus Tip: Add a Few Comfort Items
Throw in a small speaker, your favorite candle, or a Bluetooth light you can use if you’re arriving after dark. Little touches like these can make a place that’s full of boxes feel a bit more like home—at least for that first night.
Need Help with Your Move?
Moving is rarely just about moving. It’s about deadlines, logistics, a dozen half-finished tasks, and the weird emotional rollercoaster of boxing up your life. Some people thrive on the chaos. Most don’t.
Maybe you’ve got it all mapped out, spreadsheets and all. Maybe you haven’t even started packing. Either way, Isaac’s Moving & Storage is here to make the whole process less stressful, less time-consuming, and a lot more manageable. Our team has helped thousands of families, individuals, and businesses relocate—whether it’s down the street or across the country.
Get a Quote—No Surprises, No Guesswork
Ever get a moving quote that sounds reasonable until the extra fees start stacking up? Not here. We keep pricing transparent. No mystery charges, no “Oh, we forgot to mention…” Just straightforward estimates based on what you actually need.
If you’re just starting to plan and need to get a sense of cost, request a quote. We’ll go over your options, figure out what makes sense for your situation, and give you a number that actually reflects reality.
Moving doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Let’s make it easier. Contact us today and let’s get started.
