Just like when preparing to move, it is beneficial to have a plan for unpacking after you’ve arrived. It all starts with how you organized your packing (it helps to have an inventory list and having boxes properly labeled beforehand).

So you are finally in your new house and there are boxes everywhere!
Where do you start?

The Essentials, Kitchen & Bath

Start by unpacking your essentials, which is everything you need for a couple nights. This includes kitchen must haves to eat for the next few days (dishes, cups, silverware; etc.), and bathroom toiletries you can’t go a day without (think of the TP). Also know where your tools are for putting together furniture and hanging pictures. You may need a utility knife for opening boxes, hammer, screw driver and nails for furniture and pictures.

Here are some important essentials to remember not to forget:

• Wallet, cash, and identification
• Shoes, socks, and underwear (week’s supply)
• Paper or regular plates, silverware, and cups; one or two pans.
• Toilet paper, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and soap
• Towels, shampoo and conditioner
• Pillows, blankets, sheets, and an airbed (or mattress)

Next Steps

You will also want to put the furniture and beds in the bedrooms and plan the room before you officially start unpacking. Then start putting boxes in the rooms they are labeled for – but do not put too many boxes and overload a room.

Next, start unloading the boxes in the bathrooms and kitchen start with the next most important essentials. Remember, most people can’t unpack everything in a day or two, so don’t rush yourself. It is a process that takes time.

Unpack your garage and patio things last. Once you have made some more space from unpacking boxes, start putting together furniture and hang some pictures along the way to make it feel like home. Remember to have patience and have fun thinking of all the new memories in your new home.