Moving day is finally here. After weeks (or months) of planning, packing, and coordinating, the big day has arrived—but what exactly should you expect? Whether you’re working with a professional crew or managing parts of the move yourself, knowing what will happen hour by hour can help reduce stress and make the process smoother.
This comprehensive guide outlines a step-by-step timeline so you’ll feel prepared, in control, and confident when moving day rolls around. If you’ve hired movers in Savannah GA or are considering specialty moving services for valuable items, this article will also help you understand how to coordinate with your moving team.
Table of Contents
Early Morning: Final Prep and Team Arrival (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM)
The day starts early—especially if your movers are scheduled for the morning. Before the team arrives:
- Dress comfortably in weather-appropriate clothes.
- Eat a good breakfast and hydrate—you’ll need energy.
- Remove any last-minute items from drawers or closets.
- Keep your “Essentials Bag” nearby (wallet, keys, chargers, important documents, medications).
If you’ve hired professional movers in Savannah GA, expect a call from the team leader when they’re en route. When the crew arrives, they’ll introduce themselves, confirm the move details, and do a quick walkthrough of your home.
Tip: Point out any fragile boxes, special handling items, or furniture that won’t be going.
Morning: Loading Begins (9:00 AM – 11:30 AM)
Once everything is confirmed, the crew will begin loading your belongings onto the truck. If you’re working with a reputable moving company, each item will be carefully padded, wrapped, and secured to prevent damage.
Tasks typically completed during this time:
- Disassembly of large furniture (beds, tables)
- Wrapping fragile items or artwork
- Labeling and logging boxes (especially for specialty moving services)
- Navigating narrow hallways or stairs if needed
If you’re relocating items that require extra care—like a piano, antique mirror, or high-end electronics—this is when the specialty moving services team will take over. These professionals use custom crating, dollies, and protective padding for delicate or valuable items.
Midday: Truck Departure and Transit (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM)
Once everything is loaded, the crew will confirm the inventory and destination address before departing for your new home. If you’re moving locally, this trip may only take a short while. For longer moves, they may make scheduled stops.
What you can do during this window:
- Double-check all rooms, closets, attics, and garages.
- Take photos of the old home for your records (especially if you’re renting).
- Clean or hire a cleaner to tidy up before handing over the keys.
- Ensure pets and children are safely transported or staying with friends/family.
Note: Most professional movers in Savannah GA allow you to follow the truck or will give you real-time updates via phone or text.
Early Afternoon: Arrival at Your New Home (1:30 PM – 2:30 PM)
Once the truck arrives, your movers will do a second walkthrough of your new home. This is your opportunity to:
- Show them where large furniture will go.
- Confirm the layout (e.g., which room is the office or nursery).
- Clarify any items that need extra care during unloading.
You can speed up the process by:
- Posting signs or using labels on bedroom doors.
- Having a floor plan printed or drawn out.
- Keeping pets and kids in a safe room or supervised outside.
If you opted for specialty moving services, the team may take extra time to reassemble custom items or ensure temperature-sensitive pieces are handled first.
Afternoon: Unloading and Reassembly (2:30 PM – 5:00 PM)
Now begins the unloading phase. Your movers will begin bringing in boxes, furniture, and large items, often starting with heavier objects. Beds, dressers, and appliances are usually unloaded first.
Common steps during unloading:
- Furniture placed in the appropriate room
- Items unwrapped and inspected for any damage
- Reassembly of beds, tables, and cribs
- Appliance setup if included in the services
At this point, you’ll appreciate working with trained movers in Savannah GA, especially if stairs, elevators, or tight hallways are involved. It’s also helpful to have cold water or snacks available for the team—it goes a long way!
Late Afternoon: Final Checks and Sign-Off (5:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Once everything is unloaded, the team will ask you to do a final walkthrough. This is your opportunity to:
- Ensure nothing was missed or forgotten
- Check boxes for damage or missing labels
- Make sure furniture is placed where you want it
- Confirm specialty items are intact and properly assembled
The crew will also ask for your signature on the final paperwork, and you’ll usually pay the remaining balance at this time (unless prepaid). This is also the moment to leave a tip if you feel the team went above and beyond.
Tip: Many customers tip 10–20%, especially if the move was complex or handled with exceptional care.
Evening: Settling In and Unpacking (6:00 PM and Later)
Congratulations—you’re officially in your new home! While the physical move is done, there’s still some work left to do. Most people won’t unpack everything the same day, but you’ll want to tackle the essentials.
Focus on:
- Setting up beds and linens
- Unpacking bathroom and kitchen necessities
- Charging devices and locating Wi-Fi details
- Arranging a simple meal or takeout
If you hired specialty moving services, your most sensitive items—like heirlooms, sculptures, or wine collections—should already be set up or safely stored. Take a deep breath and begin organizing at your own pace.
Conclusion:
Knowing what to expect on a moving day helps turn what can feel like a chaotic, stressful event into a well-orchestrated transition. From early morning prep to final walkthrough, each step of the day can run smoothly if you’re organized, clear with your movers, and realistic about timelines. If you’re moving within Georgia and want peace of mind, trust experienced movers in Savannah GA who offer full-service support—including specialty moving services—for those items that need extra care.
When you plan your move with professionals, the only thing left to do is settle in, unpack, and enjoy your new home.