Here's what you need on the day you're moving

Move-in day can be chaotic as well as pricey, with its average cost pushing above $3,000. But having everything you need on hand at the right time can make moving faster and cut down on unplanned expenses.

With that in mind, this moving day guide will help you know what you might need ahead of time. Combine it with our week-by-week moving checklist for added organization.

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Put moving-related paperwork in a folder or binder for easy reference. Keep it with you in your own vehicle so you don't have to climb the moving truck or move dozens of boxes if you need a phone number or lease detail. 

Here are some critical pieces of moving-related paperwork to have on hand:

• Lease agreement or mortgage documents, which provide proof of your legal right to occupy the home
• State-issued ID, which may be required when setting up utilities or deliveries
• Utility setup confirmation numbers, letters, or emails, which help ensure power, water, or internet is turned on
• Renters' or homeowners' insurance information, which you might need if an emergency happens during your move
• Emergency contacts, which can be handy if you lose your phone

Many people like to give their home a good scrub before they settle in. If you're cleaning before you unpack, consider prioritizing spaces like kitchens and bathrooms and all floors.

Supplies you might need include:

• All-purpose cleaner for general surface cleaning
• Disinfectant wipes to quickly sanitize door knobs, light switches, and fixtures
• Toilet bowl cleaner and brush to give toilets some extra shine
• Glass cleaner for mirrors and windows
• A broom and dustpan for sweeping up floors
• A mop and floor cleaner for giving kitchen and bathroom floors a scrub
• A vacuum for carpets
• Sponges for scrubbing counters, tubs, showers, and sinks
• Cleaning rags for all-purpose wipe-downs
• Paper towels or shop towels for quick touch-ups

Consider packing these items in boxes labeled "Open first" so you can get to cleaning supplies quickly.

Focus on items you need to clean up, relax comfortably for a bit, and spend the first night or two in your new home. They might include:

• Soap for the bathtub and shower, as well as hand soap for near sinks
• Shampoo and conditioner in each bathroom
• Toothbrushes and toothpaste for the entire family
• Toilet paper for every bathroom
• Hand towels you can hang near every sink to dry hands after washing them
• Blankets and pillows for each person to support cozy sleep
• Air mattresses if beds and mattresses won't be available for the first night
• Favorite items for children such as stuffies to help them sleep

Pack convenience items and must-haves in separate boxes from the rest of your kitchen stuff. These are items you want to open within a few hours of arriving and use throughout the first day or two of your move. Examples include:

• Plastic utensils, plus paper plates and cups so you can eat convenience meals and takeout without doing dishes
• Non-perishable snacks for quick pick-me-ups without cooking
• A cooler with water and other drinks to keep everyone properly hydrated
• Coffee and tea with a kettle or coffee maker for first-morning caffeine 
• Dish soap and a sponge so you can wash the dishes you use
• Trash bags for disposing of food and other kitchen waste

• A flashlight with extra batteries to help explore dark corners or provide nighttime light if the power isn't on yet
• A first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic spray, and pain relievers
• Box cutters and scissors to open boxes without damaging contents
• A basic toolkit with screwdrivers, a hammer, pliers, and a wrench for hanging wall decor and handling basic first-day odd jobs
• Measuring tape for checking room dimensions or furniture placement
• Work gloves to protect your hands during heavy lifting
• Duct tape for shoring up boxes and making all types of quick fixes
• WD-40 to reduce the sound of squeaky hinges or help with stuck locks or windows
• A step stool to help you reach higher shelves as you unpack
• Zip ties to support safe cable management when setting up computers, media centers, and other electronics
• Masking tape and a permanent marker for labeling boxes and bins
• Safety glasses to keep your eyes safe as you work
• A dust mask for added safety when cleaning out garages, basements, or attics
• A fire extinguisher, if the home doesn't already have one

Being without power or an internet connection on move-in day can create confusion and frustrating setbacks. You might need the internet to look up takeout options in your new neighborhood or instructions for installing a new appliance. 

Having key tech gear accessible can help you settle in faster by setting up Wi-Fi quickly and ensuring all your devices are charged. Here are some items you might want to ensure easy access to:

• Phone and laptop chargers so your essential devices stay powered throughout the day
• Power strips and surge protectors for plugging in multiple devices in a central location safely
• Extension cords so you can power devices and tools throughout larger rooms or outside areas
• A Wi-Fi router and modem so you can set up internet service on day one
• An Ethernet cable for hardwired internet setups
• Account login information for your internet provider and any devices with apps that require setup
• Batteries for remotes, smoke detectors, clocks, and other small electronics

Don't forget to pack items to keep small children and any pets comfortable and entertained. When they're happy, everyone else is more efficient on moving day.

Some items to have on hand include:

• Snacks and food to keep hunger and cranky moments to a minimum
• Toys to help entertain kids or pets 
• Diapers so you’re not digging through boxes in the middle of a blowout
• A baby monitor if your little one will nap in another room while you work
• Baby or toddler dishes for less-messy meals
• A playpen or crib to give young children a safe space in a busy home
• Pet bowls so pets have easy access to food and water
• Leashes for walks or keeping pets secure while doors are open
• Litter boxes so you can set up a familiar spot for cats immediately
• Pet bedding to create a cozy and safe space for pets to rest