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The Importance of Planning Your Move

May 12, 2025

Moving is an exciting but often overwhelming experience, and proper planning can make all the difference. Following a well-structured timeline helps reduce stress, makes sure nothing gets missed, and helps you transition into your new home with ease. Whether you are moving locally or long-distance, knowing how to prepare for a move will help you stay on track.

 

How Much Time Should You Set Aside to Prepare for a Move?

Every move is unique, but generally, preparing for a move should be planned out two months ahead to give yourself plenty of time for all your moving tasks. The key to success is organizing your move into clear steps, so nothing gets left to the last minute. Take a look at a moving timeline to help you plan for a move effectively.

 

8 Weeks Before Moving Day: Initial Planning

  • Arrange Moving Services – Contact Lambert Moving Systems to book your move and reserve the move date that works best for you.
  • Reduce and Organize – Go through everything you own and decide what to hold onto, give away, or put up for sale.
  • Start Exploring Your New Home – If moving to a different city, check out area amenities, school options, and services.
  • Create a Moving Binder – Gather essential documents, receipts, and moving checklists in one place.

6 Weeks Before Moving Day: Logistics & Organization

  • Create a Moving Budget – Factor in moving costs, all necessary packing materials, and any storage charges.
  • Notify Important Parties – Update your address with your employer, financial institutions, and subscription services.
  • Purchase Moving Supplies – Get durable moving cartons, packing tape, bubble wrap, and labeling tools.
  • Arrange Extra Help – Arrange for childcare or pet care if needed on moving day.

4 Weeks Before Moving Day: Start Packing

  • Complete Address Change Paperwork – Inform the post office of your pending move.
  • Begin Packing Non-Essentials – Pack items you won’t need before the move, such as seasonal clothing and decorations.
  • Plan Utility Disconnections & Connections – Set up disconnect and connect dates for electricity, water, gas, and internet services.
  • Solidify Storage Plans – If you require short-term or long-term storage, make necessary arrangements.
  • Prepare Your Car for the Move – If driving to your new home, ensure your vehicle is in good condition.

3 Weeks Before Moving Day: Final Preparations

  • Plan Moving Day Travel – Book flights, hotels, or rental vehicles if needed for a long-distance move.
  • Assemble All Key Documents – Get all essential records together.
  • Plan for Special Items – Make a plan for moving pets, plants, and valuables.
  • Downsize Before Moving – Reduce what you have to move.

2 Weeks Before Moving Day: Confirm Details

  • Reach out to Lambert Moving Systems – Verify the final details with your movers.
  • Label and Inventory Boxes – Label and organize boxes to streamline unpacking.
  • Pack an Essentials Box – Include toiletries, medications, important documents, and daily-use items.
  • Prepare Appliances – Defrost any extra freezers, disconnect major appliances if you can, and secure loose cords.
  • Make Arrangements for Final Bills & Deposits – Ensure all outstanding payments are made before moving.

1 Week Before Moving Day: Final Tasks

  • Reconfirm Move Day Arrangements – Review final plans with Lambert Moving Systems and put together a schedule.
  • Take Furniture Apart – If possible, take apart beds, desks, and large furniture.
  • Safeguard Your Most Important Items – Pack jewelry, cash, and important paperwork in a personal bag.
  • Arrange a Deep Clean – Arrange for a deep clean of your current home if needed.

2 Days Before Moving Day: Last-Minute Details

  • Prepare Fridge and Freezer – Leave doors ajar to avoid smells.
  • Fill Luggage with Must-Haves – Include clothing, personal care items, and anything needed for the first few days.
  • Set Aside Items Not to Be Loaded – Set aside high-value or irreplaceable items and any medications.
  • Give Clear Delivery Instructions – If needed, offer specific drop-off directions.

Moving Day: Time to Go!

  • Be Available for Movers – Remain at the property to monitor and oversee loading.
  • Perform a Final Walkthrough – Inspect all areas to confirm nothing is forgotten.
  • Confirm Your New Home’s Address – Provide the moving team with your new address and any special instructions.
  • Take Final Utility Readings – Write down all meter readings prior to move-out.
  • Keep Essentials Handy – Carry important documents, valuables, medications, and chargers with you.

 

Why Following a Moving Timeline is Important

Sticking to a detailed moving timeline helps cuts down on moving anxiety, helps you stay on track, and ensures a more efficient move. The more prepared you are, the better your moving day will go. Following a moving plan helps to remove any guesswork and helps you look forward to your new home.

 

Want Expert Help with Planning Your Move? Contact Lambert Moving Systems!

If you’re trying to figure out how long it takes to prepare for a move or need assistance with any part of the process, Lambert Moving Systems is here to help. Our skilled team make your move hassle-free so you can pay attention to the important things. Reach out to us at 888-480-9120 or use our website contact form for a free moving consultation and personalized timeline guidance!