How Long Does It Take to Move?

The moving process requires time for planning and preparation, packing, loading, transportation, unpacking, and settling into your new home. While the exact timeline will vary, on average it takes 2-8 weeks to complete a local move and 4-6 weeks for a long-distance one.

How Long Does It Take to Move? is the largest contributor to a move’s duration. Decluttering, arranging furniture, and organizing your possessions takes time. It’s essential to make a list of all the tasks that need to be completed and start early so you can plan accordingly. In addition to decluttering, packing, and sorting, it can also take a few days to find movers or a rental truck, handle administrative tasks like changing your address, and coordinate your services.

When it comes to packing and loading, the size of your apartment and how well prepared you are determines the speed of the process. On average, it takes a few hours to load a 3-bedroom home with movers and several more hours for a large 4-bedroom home.

What Size Moving Truck Do I Need? A Guide to Choosing the Right Fit

The distance of your move and weather conditions play a big role in the duration of the transportation phase. A coast-to-coast drive will naturally take longer than a move across the state. Travel delays due to traffic, road construction, or unforeseen circumstances can add days or weeks to the overall moving timeline. Be sure to calculate the driving time from both locations and factor in any stops you might have along the way.