Moving boxes kit
A mixed-size box kit so heavy things go in small boxes.
Moving to Houston: packing and first-week essentials
Templates by The Hire Power™ · Opportunity looks good on you
A move goes smoother when the paperwork and the packing run on two separate lists. This page covers both: the official accounts to set up in Houston, then the supplies that make packing and the first night easier.
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Set up these accounts first
Start or transfer service a week or two before move-in when you can. Providers depend on the exact address, so confirm with your landlord or seller.
- Electricity: compare providers on Power to Choose
- Water: Houston Public Works utility billing
- Gas: CenterPoint Energy
- Library card: Houston Public Library
More on deposits, payment options and bill help is in our Houston budgeting and utility bills guide. Get a library card soon after you move; it unlocks free computers, Wi-Fi and online career tools (see the library guide).
Packing supplies
Use small boxes for books and dishes so no box is too heavy to lift. Label every box with the room it goes to.
Packing tape with dispenser
A dispenser makes taping dozens of boxes much faster.
Bubble wrap roll
For dishes, frames and anything that rattles.
Packing paper
Cheaper filler for dishes and glasses than bubble wrap.
Moving blankets
Protect furniture and truck walls from scratches.
Moving day
Sliders, straps and a hand truck reduce trips and back strain, especially with stairs.
Furniture sliders
Move a dresser or couch across a floor without lifting it.
Mattress bag
Keeps a mattress clean in the truck or in storage.
Color-coded moving labels
Label each box by room so helpers know where it goes.
Box cutter
For opening boxes at the new place without digging for scissors.
Lifting straps
Shoulder straps help two people carry heavy items.
Folding hand truck
Stacks of boxes in one trip; folds flat for storage.
The first-night box
Pack one clear bin you open first: sheets, towels, phone chargers, medicine, toilet paper, a few tools, snacks and paper plates.
Household tool kit
For taking apart bed frames and putting them back together.
Clear storage bins with lids
A first-night box: sheets, chargers, meds, toilet paper and a towel.
Keep the move organized
The Hire Power™ store has a relocation move planner and a new-city checklist for deposits, due dates and the "who did I call" list. If you are job hunting in your new city, start with Finding work in Houston.
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