METCALF MOVING BLOG
Items to Transport in Your Vehicle During a Move
Although moving can be a stressful experience, the process can go more smoothly and efficiently with proper planning. A critical aspect of a successful move is deciding which items to carry with you in your vehicle. Keeping essential items on hand can make the transition to your new home easier and more comfortable. Here are some critical items to consider taking with you during a residential move:
Essential Documents
Having all your important documents within reach during a move is crucial. These might include:
- Identification documents (passports, driver’s licenses, birth certificates)
- Legal papers (property deeds, leases, wills)
- Financial records (bank statements, checkbooks, tax documents)
- Medical records and prescriptions
- Moving company contract and contact information
Having these documents close at hand can prevent unnecessary delays and complications.
Personal Items and Valuables
Some items are too valuable or sentimental to be packed away in a moving truck. These might include:
- Jewelry and other small valuables
- Family heirlooms and keepsakes
- Sentimental items such as photo albums and scrapbooks
- Electronics like laptops, tablets, and cameras
- Special equipment, like sports gear or musical instruments
Keeping these items with you ensures they remain safe and accessible throughout the move.
Essentials Box for Immediate Use
Upon arriving at your new home, you may not immediately have easy access to all your belongings. Pack an essentials box with things you’ll need immediately:
- Clothing for a few days, including sleepwear and extra undergarments
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant)
- Towels and basic shower supplies
- Bedding (pillows, blankets, sheets)
- Medications and healthcare essentials
- Electronics chargers
These things will make your first few days in your new house more comfortable.
Food and Kitchen Essentials
Unpacking the kitchen can take some time, so it’s a good idea to keep some basics with you to avoid running out to eat:
- Non-perishable snacks and easy-to-prepare meals
- A cooler with perishables, if needed
- Basic utensils, a can opener, and a few dishes
- Bottled water and beverages
These essentials will nourish you and your family during the transition without needing frequent grocery store trips.
Tools and Supplies
As you settle into your new home, you may need various tools and supplies. Consider carrying:
- Essential toolkit (hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches)
- Utility knife or box cutter
- Scissors and tape
- Flashlights and batteries
- Extension cords and power strips
These items can be convenient for setting up furniture, opening boxes, and addressing immediate repairs or adjustments.
Emergency Kit
Maintain an emergency kit in your vehicle to be ready for anything at anytime. It should contain the following items:
- First aid kit with bandages, antiseptics, and over-the-counter medications
- Emergency contacts and phone numbers
- Portable charger for your phone
- Spare tire, jack, and tire iron
- Reflective triangles or road flares
Planning for emergencies ensures you are prepared for unforeseen situations during your move.
Planning Your Move Right
Being able to pack your own car for moving day is just one piece of the moving preparation puzzle that makes moving so much easier. Having trusted, experienced movers can also help to ease your worry. Contact us today for a free moving quote.