How to Pack an ‘Open First’ Box for Easy Storage Unit Access?

Pack essential items in an ‘open first’ box for convenient access to must-haves upon arriving at your Cross Canada Moving and Storage unit.

Moving into a storage unit with Cross Canada Moving and Storage is an excellent way to safeguard your belongings during a transition period.

However, upon arrival at your unit, you’ll likely want quick access to certain items without digging through every box.

The solution? Pack an ‘open first’ box containing the things you’ll need right away.

What is an ‘Open First’ Box?

An ‘open first’ box is precisely what it sounds like — a dedicated box you open before any others after arriving at your storage unit.

This special box contains the items you’ll want on hand immediately, like tools, snacks, disposable plates, or changes of clothes.

By taking some time to carefully pack this box, you’ll save yourself hassle and frustration later on.

No more rummaging through unlabeled boxes and hunting for the basics! Plus, having essentials within reach allows you to settle into your new space more quickly and comfortably.

What to Include

To determine what belongs in your ‘open first’ box, make a list of the most essential items you’ll need upon arrival at your storage unit. A few examples:

• Tools: Box cutter, scissors, hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, work gloves
• Basic Supplies: Trash bags, paper towels, all-purpose cleaner, lightbulbs, batteries, flashlight
• Personal Items: Changes of clothes, toiletries, snacks, medications, phone chargers, entertainment

Don’t forget any specific must-haves for your situation — electronics, pet supplies, camping gear, or hobby items. The contents will be unique, so take a thoughtful moment to consider your expected ‘open first’ needs.

How to Pack It Properly?

Use a distinctive, brightly colored bin or crate clearly labeled “OPEN FIRST” on all sides.

This makes it impossible to miss amongst your other boxes and bins. When packing the contents, place heavy tools and supplies on the bottom and layer lighter personal items on top. Any fragile objects should be well-padded with dishtowels or clothing.

Group similar items together in reusable bags or containers, leaving spaces between objects for easy access later.

Make an itemized list to refer back to if anything seems missing. Finally, use large X’s, bright stickers or spray paint on the exterior to mark it as your top priority box.

Keep It Accessible

When loading for your move, ensure the ‘open first’ box is one of the very last items packed into the truck.

Then, position it near the front of your storage unit for seamless retrieval upon arrival. With your essentials close at hand, you can focus on more enjoyable tasks like organizing your space!

A pro tip? Consider stocking a backup ‘open first’ box if your storage unit functions as an extended home base or workstation during the transition. Running low on supplies? Just open the second box.

Keep It Fresh

Over time, the contents may need replenishing as batteries drain, snacks expire, etc. Do a quick inventory check periodically and swap out any depleted items.

This keeps your essentials box truly essential! You might even designate it as a small toolbox once fully set up, stocked with a basic DIY kit for assembling furniture or hanging shelves.

Make It Fun

For families using a storage unit as temporary housing, packing the ‘open first’ box can be a fun hands-on activity!

Assign kids simple tasks like decorating the exterior or choosing their favorite snacks to include. Giving children a role generates excitement about the move and ownership over their new space.

Access Made Easy

Careful packing sets the stage for a successful storage unit experience. With a centralized ‘open first’ box stocked according to your needs, you’ll breathe easier knowing comforts are accessible from day one.

Whether for long-term storage or an in-between lifestyle, this simple hack helps bring order to chaos when every other belonging is packed away.

Trust Cross Canada Moving and Storage to handle the heavy lifting, while you focus on a seamless transition into your temporary living situation!