Which essentials should be packed last

Last updated: February 10th, 2025

Certain categories of items should be packed separately when you are preparing to move. First, it can enhance their accessibility, so you can find  them quickly whenever you need them: before, during, or immediately after the move. Second, they are unpacked first to provide you a comfortable settling at your new home. Last but not least, by packing these items last you reduce the chance of accidentally boxing them up too early and needing to dig through packed boxes to retrieve them.

Whether you pack yourself or hire professional movers like Paramount Moving  for this, ensure https://paramountmoving.ca/service/residential-movers/ that boxes containing essential items are clearly labeled to avoid being packed away too early. Examples of essential items include the following categories:

1. Important documents and valuables

Keep passports, IDs, moving contracts, utility details, and financial records in a dedicated folder. Jewelry, cash, and small electronics should stay with you in a separate box or bag to ensure their safety during the move.

2. Daily essentials

Pack a cooler or bag with water, coffee, and easy-to-eat snacks to keep energy levels up during moving day. Take care of personal items:

  • toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap),
  • medications, 
  • phone chargers
  • change of clothes.

These items are critical for staying comfortable and maintaining routines during and immediately after the move.

3. Cleaning supplies

Basic tools for cleaning like a broom, dustpan, mop, multi-surface cleaner, paper towels, and trash bags are essential for tidying up your old home after loading and for cleaning your new home before unpacking. You can include a vacuum cleaner to this list if it is not too bulky.

4. Tools and moving supplies

Keep a small toolbox with basic tools like screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers for disassembling and reassembling furniture. Extra packing supplies can be lifesavers for last-minute packing or adjustments.

5. Kitchen Essentials

Include a few plates, cups, utensils, a pot or pan, and any necessary appliances like a coffee maker or kettle to use during moving day and the first night in your new home. Pack pantry staples like canned goods, pasta, or snacks last so you have easy access to meals while unpacking.

6. Bedding and Comfort Items

Include bed linens, pillows, and blankets for each family member to ensure a good night’s rest, even if the rest of the house isn’t unpacked.

7. Electronics

Keep phones, laptops, and chargers packed last to ensure they are available for communication and entertainment during downtime.Wi-Fi equipment such as routers and modems should be packed last and set up first in your new home to maintain connectivity.

8. Children’s and pet supplies

Pack toys, comfort items, and essentials like diapers and snacks to keep children occupied and comfortable. Keep pet supplies like food, leashes, carriers, and any comfort items easily accessible to reduce stress for your pets.

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