A practical Southwest Florida moving timeline

Six to eight weeks before

Define the move before requesting estimates. List every address, service, access condition, specialty item, and deadline so each mover prices the same job.

• Create a room-by-room inventory.
• Separate art, antiques, wine, pianos, safes, and oversized pieces.
• Ask both properties about elevators, gates, docks, parking, and certificates of insurance.
• Request written estimates from properly registered companies.

Three to four weeks before

Select the mover after comparing scope, not only price. Read the cancellation terms, valuation choices, storage terms, and possible extra charges before paying a deposit.

• Confirm the exact legal business name.
• Book elevators and reserve loading areas.
• Arrange utilities, mail forwarding, and insurance changes.
• Decide what will move with you personally.

One week before

Walk through the inventory again and report changes in writing. Confirm arrival window, crew and truck plan, addresses, phone numbers, payment method, and weather policy.

The day before

Charge phones, photograph valuable items and property conditions, secure documents and medications, empty prohibited items, and create a clearly marked essentials group that will not go on the truck.

Move day and delivery

Review paperwork before loading, keep copies with you, perform a final walkthrough, and check the inventory and visible condition of belongings at delivery before the crew leaves.