Moving to Lafayette can be exciting, but it also comes with a lot to plan. From booking movers to setting up utilities and securing insurance, missing a step can lead to serious headaches. This 30-day moving guide breaks down each essential task so you can move into your new home smoothly and efficiently.
Day 30: Book Your Movers
Start by scheduling your movers early, especially if you’re moving during Lafayette’s festival season in spring or hurricane season in the fall. Trucks book quickly, so call local pros like Moovers or La Fontaine, or secure a U-Haul in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
Day 20: School Registration
If you have children, check the Lafayette Parish School System (LPSS) zone maps and complete registration paperwork early. Magnet academies have strict deadlines, and early submission ensures your child is enrolled without delays.
Day 15: Secure Your Insurance Binder
With the 2026 Act 480 stated value policies, insurers are taking longer to underwrite policies. Obtain your insurance binder at least 15 days before closing to allow enough time for your lender to issue a “clear to close.” Waiting until the last few days can delay your closing.
Days 14–7: Set Up Utilities
Lafayette has unique utility setups depending on your location:
- City limits: Set up LUS trifecta—power, water, and LFT Fiber (municipal internet).
- Outside city limits: You may need Slemco or Entergy for power, and different water providers.
Knowing your utility providers in advance prevents delays and ensures your home is ready upon move-in.
Pro Tip: LFT Fiber Internet
LFT Fiber offers 100% fiber-optic service with high upload and download speeds, making it ideal for smart homes. Expansion is ongoing, so more areas of Lafayette Parish will soon have access.
Day 10: Change Your Address
Update your mailing address with USPS and online retailers like Amazon. This ensures packages and housewarming gifts arrive at your new home, not your old one.
Day 7: Prepare the First-Night Box
Pack a clear bin with essential items: toilet paper, phone chargers, sheets, and a coffee maker. On moving night, this box ensures you can settle in without searching through multiple boxes for necessities.
Day 3: Final Walkthrough
Perform a thorough inspection of your new home. Check that agreed-upon repairs are complete and that nothing was damaged during the seller’s move-out. Ensure the property is in the condition you expected before closing.
Day 0: Closing Day
Bring your ID and cashier’s check to finalize the purchase. After signing, the keys are yours.
Homestead Exemption Tip
File your homestead exemption at the courthouse after receiving your recorded deed. This can reduce your property taxes by up to $75,000 of your home’s value, but it must be filed after closing. Some title attorneys provide forms at closing, but you can also request them from the Tax Assessor’s office.
Final Thoughts
Moving is a lot of work, but with this 30-day checklist, you won’t miss a step. Planning ahead for movers, school registration, insurance, utilities, and the final walkthrough ensures a smooth transition into your Lafayette home in 2026.
