What to Take When the Movers Take the Rest

Pack a “survival kit” so you and your family will be comfortable in the new house until the movers arrive—or until you have the energy to unpack the moving boxes. Major moving companies recommend packing:

1. Kitchen items. Disposable plates, cups, and utensils. Can and bottle openers. Tea and coffee (don’t forget filters and pot), aluminum foil, napkins, paper towels, sponge, and dish soap.

2. Bedroom items. Sheets, blankets, and pillowcases.

3. Bathroom items. Towels, toilet paper, soap, and toiletries.

4. Household items. Flashlights, scissors, light bulbs, trash bags.

5. Tools. Hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, nails, box opener, masking tape, and thumbtacks in case you need to put sheets over the windows as temporary curtains.

6. Personal items. Depending on the timing of your movers’ arrival, it may be useful to take clothing, toiletries, an alarm clock, and other items you’d need overnight.

7. First aid kit.

If you make up the beds as soon as they arrive, you’ll save yourself from having to do this chore when you’re so exhausted all you want to do is go to sleep!