Your box of essential items is all the things that you should keep from being packed away, and though this will vary depending on whether you're moving a short or a long distance, use this list as a guide to help you decide what you need.

The box of essentials should contain all the things that you will need in the last day or so in your old house and within the first few days in your new house, before you've had a chance to unpack everything else. This list is by no means exhaustive, but should give you a good start!

* Snacks and beverages - although you're bound to have a local convenience store it's far more handy to have a couple of bottles of water and some snacks for yourself and the family. It's easy to let your moving day slip by without eating or drinking properly, so make sure you have at least something.
*A plate, knife, fork, spoon and mug should be packed - one for each member of the family so that you can enjoy your first meal in your new home!
*Pet food and dishes for your pets, if applicable
*Bag of toiletries - soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush and a shower curtain if necessary!
*Cleaning products - cloth, all-purpose cleaner, dish cloth, dish soap and dish towel
*Craft knife or scissors for opening all your other boxes
*Candles, matches and a flashlight (remember to check the batteries!just in case there's a room in your house that has no electricity yet, or worse your entire new house. You'll never know when you need these things. they come in handy.
*Garbage bags - so you don't make a lot of mess with your packing and unpacking.
*A small emergency/first aid kit - very useful.
A small tool kit - it has multipurpose!
*A towel and a change of clothing for each of you.
A radio - this is to entertain you and keep the mood jolly while moving.
*Favorite toys of your kids - two or three toys to keep your kids busy in case they bother you when you are busy doing the arranging of your belongings.
Important papers should be in your box of essentials too.

We hope you've found these Moving Tips useful and will make your moving more orderly and less stressful for you.