Failing to pack something called an ‘open-first box’ before moving house is a rookie mistake, but we’ve all been there. In the rush and chaos of packing, we pack literally everything. Unfortunately, that usually means that in the first few days in your new home, you can’t find any of the essentials you need – not even to make a cup of tea. The kettle, your hair brush and even the toilet roll is buried at the bottom of goodness knows which box.

Think of an open-first box as a survival kit. It’ll keep you sane as you gradually unpack and find homes for all your stuff, and save you having to buy everything afresh.

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Packing tips for your open-first box – what to include

Before you start packing, make yourself some lists. This not only makes your feel productive (even if you haven’t actually done anything yet) but it also organises your workload. Make a separate list for your open-first box for moving house, including essentials such as:

  • A couple of mugs or cups
  • The kettle – plus the toaster too if you like
  • Non-perishable food/drink such as coffee, tea bags and snacks
  • Toothbrushes and toothpaste
  • Soap, shampoo and conditioner
  • Hairbrushes, cosmetics, deodorant and other personal hygiene items
  • Hairdryer
  • At least one change of clothing for every family member
  • A couple of bathroom towels
  • Toilet roll
  • Scissors, a knife, bottle opener and can opener
  • A torch – just in case you have to creep into the cellar to flick a fuse switch
  • A sponge, tea towel, washing up liquid and bin bags
  • A phone charger, plus chargers for other electronic devices
  • A set of cutlery and plates (camping or paper plates are a good idea for the first night)
  • Basic medicine (i.e. painkillers, hay fever tablets) plus any prescription medication.

 

A good way to think about your open-first box for moving house is like packing for a holiday. You need basic supplies for a short period of time. You may find you have other essentials (kid’s toys, electronic devices, books etc) that you can’t do without, even just for a night or two.

Other crucial tips include:

  • Your open-first box should be the last box you seal. You’ll be using all of your useful items right until the last minute, so it makes sense that you’ll pack them last.
  • Take your open-first box to your new home in your own vehicle. Unless you give your moving crew specific instructions to offload it separately, don’t put the box in the van with the rest of your stuff. It’ll likely get lost, or buried.
  • Don’t forget to label it! If the box is the same shape, size and colour as all the others, what hope have you of finding it easily if it’s not labelled?

 

Need help with packing or moving, or both? Simply call the Kiwi Movers team on 020 8877 9682* for a quick quote and a 100% efficient, professional and insured moving service from start to finish.