Moving is a whirlwind. There’s so much to think about, from coordinating with movers in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to managing the details of your new space. One of the most common mistakes? Not thinking ahead about what you’ll need immediately when you get to your new home.
Packing and unpacking in the right order is essential to avoid those frantic moments on day one. The goal is to prioritize the essentials so you’re not rummaging through boxes at midnight looking for toilet paper or clean towels. Extra planning here will save you from unnecessary stress and set you up for a smoother move.
Here’s a breakdown of what to pack last and unpack first to make your transition easier.
How to Pack and Unpack Smart
Prioritize Essentials for Moving Day
1. First-Aid Kit and Medications
You never know when a headache or minor injury might pop up while you’re moving in. Having a first-aid kit handy will save time and frustration if something unexpected happens.
Pack a small box with your basic medical supplies—bandages, pain relievers, allergy meds, and any prescription medications. This box should be among the last items to be packed and easily accessible during the move.
2. Toiletries and Personal Care Items
The last thing you want on your first night is to have to hunt for your toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap. Make sure your toiletries are ready to go.
Pack a separate bag or box with essential toiletries like toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, deodorant, and a towel. Don’t forget the toilet paper! Keep this with you, not in the moving truck.
3. Cleaning Supplies
You’ll want cleaning supplies immediately, especially if you need to wipe down surfaces or clean your new home before unpacking. Keeping them handy will allow you to tackle this task without digging through boxes.
Pack a small cleaning kit with disinfecting wipes, all-purpose cleaner, paper towels, and trash bags. You may need these during the move or when you arrive at your new place.
4. Bed Linens and Pillows
After a long day of moving, all you’ll want to do is relax and get some sleep. Having your bed ready is crucial to ensuring you can rest after the chaos.
Pack a set of bed linens, pillows, and blankets in a clearly labeled bag or box. This should be one of the first things you unpack so you can immediately make your bed once you arrive.
5. Snacks and Water
Moving is physically demanding, and you’ll need quick access to hydration and snacks throughout the day. Having easy-to-grab food will keep your energy up.
Pack a cooler or box with snacks, water bottles, and energy drinks. Include a few simple comfort foods like granola bars or fruit to keep you fueled during the move.
6. Important Documents and Valuables
Your personal documents, financial paperwork, and valuables should always be kept with you. Avoid putting these in the moving truck, as they can easily be lost or damaged.
Keep your important documents in a secure, portable folder or bag. This includes IDs, medical records, bank statements, and valuable items like jewelry. Keep them in your car or with you during the move.
Start Unpacking What You Need Most
1. Set Up Your Kitchen First
After the bed, the kitchen is one of the most important rooms to unpack. You’ll need to prepare meals and snacks, so prioritize unpacking your pots, pans, plates, and utensils.
Set up the kitchen essentials, like plates, silverware, cups, and basic cooking tools. Having a place to prepare meals will help you feel settled in quickly.
2. Bathrooms: Towels and Toiletries
Once you’re done with the kitchen, move on to the bathroom. Unpacking towels, soap, and toilet paper should be the next priority to ensure you can freshen up easily.
Set up each bathroom with clean towels, toiletries, and a shower curtain. This will allow you to feel more comfortable and settled without wasting time searching for supplies.
3. Bedroom Essentials: Sleep Comes First
Unpacking your bedroom should be a priority, especially if it’s been a long day. After all the moving chaos, your bed will become a sanctuary, so get it ready first.
Lay down your bed linens, fluff your pillows, and arrange the space so you can rest easily. This gives you a sense of normalcy after the move.
4. Electronics and Appliances
Once you’ve set up the essential areas, start unpacking your electronics, including TV, phone chargers, and any appliances that will help make your new home more comfortable.
Don’t rush to set up everything at once. Focus on what you’ll need for the first few days, such as a coffee maker, microwave, and TV.
Move Smart with Movers in Grand Rapids, Michigan!
At Pink Zebra Moving, we understand that a successful move is about more than just getting your stuff from one place to another—it’s about making the transition as smooth as possible. Our team of movers in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is here to help you with the heavy lifting, so you can focus on making your new space feel like home. Contact us today!