When a family moves into a new home, it can be difficult to know where to start unpacking. With some simple planning, homeowners can stay organized during this process by going room by room. Implement these tips before opening those boxes to get settled sooner rather than later.

1. Pack Accordingly

Those who plan to use a room-based method for unpacking should start by packing their belongings in boxes that pertain to each room in the new home. Label these boxes carefully and place them in the correct room in the new home during the moving process. Consider numbering each box and creating a checklist to ensure that nothing has been left behind.

Pro tip: Order boxes online for specialty items like TVs or lamps.

2. Create “Survival” Bags

Simply put, these are bags or boxes that include everything the family will need to survive the first few days after a move. Think clothes, toothbrushes, electronics and chargers, bathing supplies, cleaning supplies, sheets and bedding, and toilet paper. These should be packed separately from other belongings and also labeled.

3. Prioritize Unpacking

Now that each box is sorted into the correct room and large items like furniture have been placed, it’s time to decide which room to set up first. While this will vary based on each family’s priorities, most experts recommend starting with the kitchen so that groceries can be purchased and meals prepared, reducing the need for expensive and unhealthy takeout. Since most bathroom items will be in the survival bags, unpacking the bedrooms is the natural next step so everyone can get a good night’s rest. Common areas like the living room are usually last to be unpacked.

Families who are in the process of moving can seek assistance from Go Mini’s®. Our portable storage containers can protect belongings during relocation from one home to the next. We’ll even deliver the containers to the new location.