850-374-5361

The Importance of Planning Your Move in Fort Walton Beach, FL

May 12, 2025

Moving is a big and sometimes daunting experience, and proper planning can make all the difference. Having a clear schedule helps reduce stress, ensures that important tasks aren’t overlooked, and allows you to focus on settling into your new home smoothly. Whether you are moving locally or long-distance, knowing how to prepare for a move in Fort Walton Beach will help keep everything organized and efficient.

 

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

Each move is different, but generally, preparing for a move should begin a minimum of eight weeks before your moving day to ensure you’re not scrambling at the last minute. The key to success is organizing your move into clear steps, so nothing gets left to the last minute. Here’s a moving timeline to help you plan for a move in Fort Walton Beach with ease.

 

8 Weeks Before Moving Day: Initial Planning

  • Arrange Moving Services – Contact Lambert Moving Systems to schedule your move and secure your preferred moving date.
  • Reduce and Organize – Go through everything you own and decide what to hold onto, give away, or list for sale.
  • Start Exploring Your New Home – If moving to a new city, check out area amenities, local schools, and services.
  • Create a Moving Binder – Gather essential documents, transaction records, and to-do lists in one place.

6 Weeks Before Moving Day: Logistics & Organization

  • Create a Moving Budget – Factor in moving costs, packing supplies, and potential storage fees.
  • Update Key Contacts – Notify your employer, financial institutions, and subscription services.
  • Collect Your Packing Materials – Buy strong boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers for labeling.
  • Book Support Services – Arrange for childcare or pet care if needed on moving day.

4 Weeks Before Moving Day: Start Packing

  • Submit a Change of Address Form – Notify the post office of your pending move.
  • Pack Non-Essential Items – Pack items you won’t need before the move, such as seasonal clothing and decorations.
  • Plan Utility Disconnections & Connections – Schedule utility shut-off and start dates for electricity, water, gas, and internet services.
  • Solidify Storage Plans – If you require short-term or long-term storage, make necessary arrangements.
  • Schedule Vehicle Maintenance – If driving to your new home, ensure your vehicle is in good condition.

3 Weeks Before Moving Day: Final Preparations

  • Organize Your Travel Plans – Arrange transportation and lodging options if needed for a long-distance move.
  • Gather Important Documents – Collect medical records, school records, and legal paperwork.
  • Plan for Special Items – Arrange for transport of pets, plants, and valuable or fragile items.
  • Sell or Donate Unwanted Items – Let go of extra items before your move.

2 Weeks Before Moving Day: Confirm Details

  • Reach out to Lambert Moving Systems – Confirm your moving day schedule and logistics.
  • Label and Inventory Boxes – Ensure all boxes are labeled by room for easier unpacking.
  • Pack an Essentials Box – Include toiletries, medications, important documents, and daily-use items.
  • Prepare Appliances – Get fridges, washers, and more ready to move.
  • Make Arrangements for Final Bills & Deposits – Pay off last bills in advance.

1 Week Before Moving Day: Final Tasks

  • Go Over Your Moving Day Details – Review final plans with Lambert Moving Systems and prepare an itinerary.
  • Disassemble Furniture – If possible, disassemble major furniture pieces.
  • Keep Valuables Safe – Set aside valuable items like cash and jewelry to bring with you.
  • Prepare the Home for Move-Out – Make sure your house is cleaned before leaving.

2 Days Before Moving Day: Last-Minute Details

  • Clear Out and Defrost Appliances – Leave doors ajar to avoid smells.
  • Prepare luggage with Immediate Needs – Pack what you’ll need right away.
  • Set Aside Items Not to Be Loaded – Do not load essential items like medications, valuables, or important documents into the truck.
  • Share Any Special Instructions with Movers – If needed, provide detailed instructions for delivery at the new home.

Moving Day: Let’s Get Moving!

  • Be Available for Movers – Stay on-site to answer questions and oversee the loading process.
  • Do a Final Walkthrough – Check every room, closet, and cabinet to ensure nothing is left behind.
  • Confirm Your New Home’s Address – Make sure to give your new address and any special instructions to the moving crew.
  • Document Meter Readings – Write down all meter readings prior to move-out.
  • Keep Essentials Handy – Keep all necessities on hand throughout moving day.

 

Why a Moving Timeline Matters

Using a clear moving timeline helps reduce last-minute stress, maintains your organization, and ensures a more efficient move. The more prepared you are, the smoother the transition will be into your new home. Having a step-by-step guide helps to remove any guesswork and helps you look forward to your new home.

 

Looking for Moving Timeline Assistance? Contact Lambert Moving Systems!

If you’re wondering how long it takes to prepare for a move in Fort Walton Beach or need assistance with any part of the process, Lambert Moving Systems is here to help. Our professional moving services remove the burden from your shoulders so you can pay attention to the important things. Reach out to us at 850-374-5361 or fill out our online request form for a free moving consultation and personalized timeline guidance!