Week 1

Last-Minute Moving Tips & Essentials

1 Week Til the Move: 3 Tips to Plan for the Big Day

At this point in the process, you just need to dot the I's and cross the T's to make sure everything runs smoothly. If you're moving in a week, use the following checklists for a flawless, stress-free move.

Printable Checklist: Moving Day Essentials

1. Call to Confirm with Movers

Call your moving company to confirm that everything is on track for the date and time of your move. Nothing is worse than being stood up by your movers. Be sure to review the following:

Start and end addresses
Arrival time
Necessary moving supplies
Elevator reservations or restrictions
Parking reservations or permits
Building access limitations
Heavy or difficult-to-move items
Any changes to the original weight estimate

Illlustration of open moving truck with boxes and furniture packed inside.

Illustration of essentials box and backpack with items needed right away after moving to new home.

2. Pack a Moving Essentials Box

Your moving essentials box will be the first box you open when you arrive at your new home. You'll need these items along the way, so keep the container(s) handy at all times.

4 Quick Tips for Packing Your Essentials Box

Consider using a clear bin for easy access.
Keep your “open first” box with you — not in the moving van.
Pack liquid items in sealed plastic bags or containers to prevent leaks or stains.
Keep valuables, keys, paperwork and other important items with you at all times.

What to Pack in Your "Open First" Box(es)

Illustration of kitchen essentials like paper towels, cleaning supplies, plates and utensils.

Kitchen Moving Essentials

Once the moving truck drives away, the chaos of moving day will officially start to fade. And that’s when your stomach will grumble. Be prepared to replenish your energy for unpacking with these supplies, along with paper towels and cleaning supplies for any messes.

Non-perishable food and snacks
Small kitchen appliances or tools
Paper plates
Plastic utensils

Bedroom Moving Essentials

If you’re planning to sleep in your new home right away, save yourself from digging through boxes and bins after a long day of moving. Pack these moving day necessities to get a good night’s rest.

Alarm clock
One to two sets of clothing
Pajamas or loungewear
Bed linens, pillows and blankets

Illustration of bedroom essentials like pajamas, sheets and alarm clock.

Illustration of bathroom essentials like towels, toiletries, toilet paper and eye glasses.

Bathroom Moving Essentials

And lastly, you’ll want to freshen up after a long day of moving. Make sure to pack your toiletries and other parts of your daily routine.

Toilet paper
Bath towels
Hand soap
Hair dryer
Prescription medications
Glasses or contact lenses and solution.
Shower curtain and bath mat (for walk-in tubs)

Jump back to Week 3 – Kids, Pets & Utilities to learn what to pack in your child’s moving backpack and how to transition your pets into your new home.

3. Take Inventory of All Packed Boxes

Fill out our moving inventory checklist a few days prior to the move to make sure that no box is left behind. Make copies to provide to your moving team and each family member.

Download Our Free Moving Inventory Checklist