Moving in Southwest Florida
Moving in Cape Coral means planning around heat, humidity and hurricane season. Florida also has a specific law for movers. Under Florida Statutes section 507.03, each mover and moving broker must register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, which administers the state's Household Moving Services law. This guide covers choosing a mover, protecting belongings and what to do if something goes wrong.
Step 1: Check the mover's registration
Ask any mover or moving broker for their Florida registration and look it up with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services before you book. Be cautious with any company that cannot show it.
Step 2: Get written estimates
- Ask for an in-home or video survey.
- Get a written estimate listing labor, truck, packing, materials and extra charges.
- Ask whether the price can change, and what would change it.
- Ask what protection the mover offers for damage, and how claims work.
Step 3: Plan around storms
Hurricane Ian made landfall at Cayo Costa on September 28, 2022 with estimated maximum winds of about 150 mph. If your move falls between June and November:
- ask the mover about their policy if a storm forces a delay;
- keep important documents and medicines with you;
- check your insurance on the new home before moving in;
- after a storm, movers and storage can book up quickly.
Step 4: Protect belongings from humidity
Fort Myers averages about 3,353 hours a year with the wet-bulb temperature above 73°F. Humid air and a hot truck can damage wood furniture, books, photos and electronics. Pack carefully, keep the move short and turn on the AC at the new home before delivery. Avoid long stays in non-climate-controlled storage for sensitive items.
Step 5: Document
- Photograph furniture and valuables, including existing marks.
- Make a box inventory by room.
- Carry jewelry, documents and medicines yourself.
Step 6: Moving day and delivery
- Walk through with the crew lead.
- Check the inventory at loading and delivery.
- Note damage on the paperwork before signing.
Step 7: If something goes wrong
1. Note damage or missing items on the paperwork, with photos. 2. Contact the mover in writing and ask about the claim process and deadline. 3. Keep copies of everything. 4. Ask your insurer what it covers. Florida's Division of Consumer Services, in the Department of Financial Services, offers free help through its Insurance Consumer Helpline, 1-877-693-5236, if you have trouble with an insurance claim.
Step 8: Settle in
Rekey the locks, update your address and keep paperwork until any claims are resolved.
Records
Keep estimates, contracts, inventories, photos and claim correspondence together.
Utilities and keys
Schedule electricity, water and internet at the new home to start a day before the move, so the AC is running when the truck arrives.