How Long Does it Take to Move?

The time it takes to move depends on several factors, including the size of your home, the distance of the move, and how much time you can dedicate to the process. Moving is time-consuming, but creating a checklist can help you track important milestones and stay organized.

Here’s a general guideline to estimate how long your move might take. Keep in mind that unexpected delays can occur, such as weather issues, traffic congestion, last-minute changes in moving schedules, or delayed access to your new home. Having a backup plan or staying in regular contact with your movers can help manage such situations effectively.

Create a Moving Timeline

Develop a moving timeline outlining specific tasks to complete at various intervals:

• Two months before: Start planning, research movers, and gather packing supplies.
• One month before: Schedule movers, notify utility companies, and start packing non-essentials.
• Two weeks before: Confirm moving details, pack essentials, and clean the home.
• One week before: Complete final packing and prepare a moving day kit.
• Moving day: Ensure all belongings are ready for loading and perform a last walkthrough.

Move Planning and Preparation

Start planning as early as possible. Ideally, begin the process two months before moving day. Early preparation helps ensure a smoother experience.

Sort and Downsize

Declutter by sorting through your belongings and donating or discarding items you no longer need. This reduces the number of items to pack and simplifies the moving process. Aim to complete this step within one week.

Hire a Reputable Moving Company

Once you know your moving date, contact movers to compare rates and services. Booking at least six to eight weeks in advance helps you lock in your preferred company, especially during busy times like summer, holidays, or weekends.

Pack Your Belongings

Pack room by room, starting with rarely used items such as seasonal clothing, books, and kitchenware. Label all boxes clearly on multiple sides. Save daily essentials for last, packing them a few days before moving day. Begin packing about four weeks before the move and finish at least two days before the big day.

Essential Moving Day Tips

Be fully prepared for moving day with these essential tips:

• Have a moving day essentials box with items like toiletries, snacks, chargers, and important documents.
• Confirm arrangements with movers and ensure clear communication.
• Perform a final walkthrough to check for forgotten items.

Loading the Truck

Even if you hire movers, knowing how long loading takes helps with planning. Here’s an estimated timeline for professional movers loading different truck sizes:

• 10-foot truck: Less than an hour
• 24-foot truck: About four hours
• 26-foot truck: Approximately four and a half hours

Add extra time if your home has challenging access points like stairs or limited parking.

Storage Solutions Advice

If there’s a delay between moving out and moving in, consider renting a storage unit. This keeps your belongings safe and provides flexibility during the transition.

Arrival and Unloading

Unloading typically takes longer than loading since movers must place items in the appropriate rooms. Clearly labeled boxes speed up this process. Consider using a labeling system such as color-coding by room or numbering boxes and keeping an inventory list for quick reference.

Estimated unloading times:

• Studio or one-bedroom apartment: 2-3 hours
• Three- to four-bedroom house: About 7 hours
• Five+ bedroom house: 8-10 hours

Post-Move Checklist

After the move, use this checklist to settle in:

• Set up utilities and internet services.
• Update your address with banks, insurance companies, and the postal service.
• Register your vehicle if required.
• Meet your new neighbors and explore the community.

Unpacking and Settling In

With labeled boxes, unpacking should be manageable. Spread the task over several days if possible by creating an unpacking schedule with specific goals for each day. If you’re on a tight schedule, enlist family members and assign specific tasks. Aim to unpack one room or 10 boxes per day for steady progress.

Contact Luke’s Moving

Looking for a reliable moving estimate? Reach out to Luke’s Moving Services today! Visit our website to schedule a free estimate or send us an email for more information. Our expert team handles moves of all sizes and distances, helping you create a seamless moving timeline with ease!