How Long Does It Take to Move?

Moving isn’t just about packing up boxes and bribing your friends with pizza to help with the heavy lifting. It’s a multi-step process that takes time, planning, and a good bit of patience. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, knowing how long it actually takes to move can help you avoid last-minute chaos.

How long does it really take to move?

For most people, moving takes 6 to 8 weeks from start to finish, according to experts. Of course, timelines can vary by factors like:

• Home size
• Distance (local moves take 1–2 days; cross-country can take 1–2 weeks for transit alone)
• How much stuff you’ve stashed away over the years
• How early you start preparing

If you’re buying or selling a home, toss in a few more weeks for inspections, paperwork, and waiting for the stars to align (aka closing day).

When should you think about using storage?

Here’s where self storage becomes your secret weapon. It’s a total game-changer if:

• You need to declutter before showing your home.
• Your move-in date is later than your move-out date.
• You’re downsizing and need time to decide what to keep or donate.
• You just want to pack away seasonal gear, hobby stuff, or extra furniture while you settle in.

Most folks find that reserving a unit 2–3 weeks before their move gives them enough flexibility to start packing room-by-room without feeling overwhelmed. It also buys you breathing room if your move-out and move-in don’t sync up perfectly (a common issue).

A Moving Timeline You Can Actually Use

Here’s a quick breakdown:

6–8 weeks out: Start organizing, sorting, and decluttering. Make piles: keep, store, toss, donate.

4–6 weeks out: Reserve your storage unit and moving help. Start packing things you don’t use daily (think: holiday decor, winter coats, waffle maker).

2–4 weeks out: Pack room-by-room. Store anything you won’t need in the next month. Label like a pro.

Final week: Load up your storage unit with the extras. This gives you space to clean and makes moving day faster.

Tips to Keep You on Track

• Start small: One drawer a day beats panic-packing the night before.
• Use storage to tidy as you go: It keeps your space (and brain) clear.
• Label every box: Future you will say thank you.
• Don’t overpack your car: Move items in batches.
• Think of your storage unit as your “backup closet”: Keep it in reserve during your move-in process. You can retrieve and unpack things slowly on your schedule.

No matter where you’re headed, moving takes time, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. With a little planning (and a storage unit for the overflow), you can move at your own pace, stay organized, and enjoy the fresh start.