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The Importance of Planning Your Move in Opelika, AL

May 12, 2025

Moving is an adventure that can be a stressful experience, and careful planning can make all the difference. Following a well-structured timeline helps reduce stress, guarantees all details are handled, 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 Opelika will help make the process more manageable.

 

How Long Does It Take to Prepare for a Move?

Every move is unique, but generally, preparing for a move should begin a minimum of eight weeks before your moving day 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 rushed right before moving day. Here’s a moving timeline to help you plan for a move in Opelika effectively.

 

8 Weeks Before Moving Day: Initial Planning

  • Arrange Moving Services – Contact Lambert Moving Systems to schedule your move and lock in your ideal move date.
  • Reduce and Organize – Sort through your belongings and decide what to take with you, donate, or list for sale.
  • Get to Know Your New Area – If moving to a different city, look up nearby amenities, local schools, and community services.
  • Organize a Moving Binder – Gather essential documents, receipts, and moving checklists in one place.

6 Weeks Before Moving Day: Logistics & Organization

  • Set Up a Moving Budget – Account for Moving expenses, all necessary packing materials, and possible storage expenses.
  • Update Key Contacts – Update your address with your employer, financial institutions, and subscription services.
  • Gather Packing Supplies – Purchase sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers for labeling.
  • Arrange Extra Help – Set up care services for kids or pets if needed on moving day.

4 Weeks Before Moving Day: Start Packing

  • File a Change of Address – Alert the post office of your imminent 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.
  • Confirm Storage Needs – If you require short-term or long-term storage, book your storage unit.
  • Get Your Vehicle Ready – If driving to your new home, double-check your car's condition and perform any necessary maintenance.

3 Weeks Before Moving Day: Final Preparations

  • Plan Moving Day Travel – Arrange transportation and lodging options if needed for a long-distance move.
  • Gather Important Documents – Get all essential records together.
  • Arrange for Special Items – Arrange for transport of pets, plants, and valuable or fragile items.
  • Host a Garage Sale or Donate Items – Lighten your load by getting rid of unwanted belongings.

2 Weeks Before Moving Day: Confirm Details

  • Reach out to Lambert Moving Systems – Confirm your moving day schedule and logistics.
  • Label and Inventory Boxes – Mark boxes for easy identification.
  • Pack an Essentials Box – Include toiletries, medications, important documents, and daily-use items.
  • Get Appliances Ready – 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 plan out your moving day timeline.
  • Break Down Large Items – If possible, disassemble major furniture pieces.
  • Keep Valuables Safe – Pack jewelry, cash, and important paperwork in a personal bag.
  • Clean Your Home – Arrange for a deep clean of your current home if needed.

2 Days Before Moving Day: Last-Minute Details

  • Empty & Defrost Freezer and Fridge – Let appliances air out.
  • Pack Suitcases with Essentials – Pack what you’ll need right away.
  • 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 – Stay on-site to answer questions and oversee the loading process.
  • Complete a Final Walkthrough – Inspect all areas to confirm nothing is forgotten.
  • Verify Your Delivery Address – Share your new address and important notes with movers.
  • Take Final Utility Readings – Record utility numbers to avoid billing issues.
  • Carry Essential Items with You – Bring must-haves with you for easy access.

 

Why Following a Moving Timeline is Important

Following a structured moving timeline helps cuts down on moving anxiety, keeps you organized, and makes your move go smoothly. The more prepared you are, the better your moving day will go. 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 Opelika or could use a hand with moving details, Lambert Moving Systems is here to help. Our skilled team take the stress out of moving so you can focus on what matters most. Contact our office at 334-610-7755 or use our website contact form for a complimentary planning session and custom moving timeline!