The Legal and Technical Expertise of a General Contractor Expert Witness

Listen- moving in Florida isn’t exactly the same as moving anywhere else. Between that 1000% humidity, and the constant threat of a surprise thunderstorm mid-move, you gotta know what you’re doing down here to get the job done right. I’ve bounced around from Miami to Fort Lauderdale to the north and back again, and if I’ve learned anything, it’s that you gotta move smart, not just get the job done. Here are the real-deal, no-BS tips to make your Florida move chill, sunny, and maybe even fun.

1. Watch The Weather- 4 Seasons in One Day

Florida weather doesn’t play around. One minute it’s sunshine, the next minute you’re in a Category 2 storm trying to move your mattress. I’ve literally moved during a tropical storm once. Check the 10-day forecast religiously and avoid hurricane season if you can (June to November). Even if skies are sunny- have plastic tarps and shrink wrap ready. You can buy giant plastic furniture covers at Home Depot for cheap. Your future dry couch will thank you.

Also, move in the morning. Afternoon showers are almost guaranteed in the summer. It’s like clockwork—3 p.m. and boom: rain..

2. Hydrate or Else Honey

10 Expert Tips to Make Your Florida Move Stress-Free

This isn’t New York. Down here, you sweat walking to your car in your own driveway. Moving boxes in 90-degree heat with 80% humidity? That’s a medical trauma waiting to happen.Stock your fridge with water bottles, coconut water, and snacks with electrolytes and carbs. Don’t mess around. Be careful not to enjoy too many cafes before you hydrate as well.

3. Know the Building Rules

If you’re moving into a condo or apartment anywhere with more than four floors, you better know their move-in policy. These buildings have rules like strict move-in time windows, service elevator bookings, and deposit requirements.

Be sure and schedule the service elevator way in advance. Some buildings only allow moves during weekdays, 9 to 4. And if you try to move without reserving the elevator? You’ll get shut down by security faster than you can say “sorry sir.”

4. Rent the Right Truck For Your Move

U-Hauls and moving trucks in Florida take a beating. Don’t get stuck in a vehicle with broken air conditioning while sitting in I-95 traffic or a bad tire.

When you pick up the truck, check that:

  • A/C blows cold

  • Tires look solid

  • The back doesn’t smell like wet dog and is without damage

Also, always opt for the bigger truck than you think you need. We all have more stuff than we remember—especially if you’re moving with someone who’s a hoarder.

5. Skip the Cardboard Boxes

Cardboard + humidity = soggy mess. Your boxes will sweat before you do. If you’re moving during the summer (aka most of the year here), invest in reusable plastic bins or rent moving crates. They stack easier, survive Florida weather, and you can toss them in the back of your car without worrying they’ll collapse. If this didn’t convince you then know that roaches love cardboard. If you’ve lived in Miami, you know they don’t pay rent but still show up at your home like they own the place.

6. Pack for the Climate

This ain’t Boston, honey. You do NOT need three boxes labeled “Winter Gear.” Toss it now.

Pack with Florida in mind. That means:

  • Leave the coats in storage or donate them

  • Protect your electronics from heat (they’ll bake in the truck this must stay in the AC with you)

  • Double-bag any toiletries or cleaning products—leaks are are what we want

7. Use the "Miami Bag" System for Fast Access

Here’s a trick I picked up after my third FL move: pack a separate bag (or two) with just your immediate essentials. I call it the “Me Bag” because it’s the one thing you’ll carry through hell.

Your Me Bag should include:

  • Toothbrush and toiletries

  • A fresh outfit or two (something breathable!) Don’t forget a change of shoes and socks

  • Chargers, wallet, keys

  • Swimsuit and sunscreen (because you deserve a post-move beach day)

Label it and keep it in the front seat of your car. Do NOT let the movers take it by mistake.

8. Know Your Neighborhood Vibe

Each Florida city and neighborhood has its own flavor. Moving to Wynwood? Expect noise, murals, and late-night tacos. Coral Gables? More trees than people and a 5-minute rule for anything after 10 p.m. Moving to Miami- expect traffic to the clubs and to blink and pay $100. 

Local tips:

  • If your new place is near a canal or lake, ask about gator sightings (no joke). This happens now and again.
  • In some spots, you’ll need hurricane shutters. Check before storm season and don’t cheap out on this life saver.
    Parking is an issue. Some apartment complexes require permits or have assigned spots that they will tow from. Figure this out ahead of time

Get to know your block before move-in day. Ask neighbors, join the Whatsapp group, whatever it takes.

10 Expert Tips to Make Your Florida Move Stress-Free

9. Celebrate Like a Local After the Last Box Is Done

Once everything’s moved, the last box is in, and you’ve showered the move off you- you need to celebrate.

Here’s how a real FL girl does it:

  • Hit Versailles or La Carreta for croquetas and cafecito if you’re in the 305.

  • Grab a Publix sub along the way

  • Hit the beach with a beer and your favorite people.

You just survived a Florida move. You earned this. Grab that book and work on your tan babe.

Final Thoughts from FL Lover

Moving in Florida is different. It’s hotter, sweatier, and often more complicated than you expect- but it’s also full of sunshine, palm trees, and the chance to hit the reset button in paradise on life. Remember to keep your cool, roll with the rain, and pack like a local. From one Miami girl to another: welcome home, chica. You’re gonna love it here. Wait until you meet the locals!