When packing for a move it’s easy to get so caught up in all of the craziness that you find yourself searching endlessly for that one item that you need. At a time when you are already exhausted, this can leave you feeling completely overwhelmed and stressed. We’ve all found ourselves at some point wishing we had been better prepared. Avoid the chaos by making it a point to keep these 3 essential items with you on moving day.

Cleaning Supplies

You have just loaded up the final box and you are celebrating the beauty of standing inside a completely empty house when you realize the floors are filthy, the bathrooms need wiping down, and there are dust bunnies hiding in every corner. You are most certainly going to find similar conditions when you arrive at your new home. Even if the previous owner cleaned the home, it definitely will not be in tip-top shape. That’s why it’s always important to have a box of cleaning supplies on hand complete with cleaning sprays, rags, paper towels, and toilet bowl cleaner. You should also keep a broom and dustpan handy. It’s nice to be able to give your new home a good clean before moving your boxes inside and you certainly don’t want to be digging through boxes looking for cleaning supplies.

Moving Binder

Moving can be a logistical nightmare if you aren’t prepared. After all, you have multiple documents to keep up with including closing papers, moving contracts, bills, receipts, appraisals, utility records, and a list of important phone numbers. Make the moving process easier by keeping all of these important papers neatly organized inside a moving binder. This gives you easy access to any important paperwork and phone numbers. You can also include a master inventory list in the binder so you can easily locate items that have been packed.

Essentials Box

Packing is no fun and we all get to a point where we are so exhausted that we just begin packing items away as quickly as possible to get the job done. Unfortunately, we might also end up packing some much needed items that you will need to access right away. You definitely don’t want to be rummaging through boxes on your first night at home looking for a toothbrush. Set aside a box marked “essentials” and pack those items you know you will need immediately. This would include things like toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, pillow and blanket, phone chargers, pet food, and a few snacks. Your essentials box should remain in your possession throughout the move so you know exactly where it is. This will make your first day in your new home much less stressful.