Summer is the peak time for people to move. This is when families with school-going kids prefer to move. Weather-wise too it is a good time – little chance of rain, no need to wear woolens and long hours of daylight. The popularity of this season for moving means that there are financial (and other) pitfalls you need to be aware of while planning your move.
10 Summer Moving Tips
- Summer is peak moving season so you need to plan as far ahead as possible. The best moving companies are often booked weeks, if not months, in advance. You can’t afford to entrust all your possessions to a moving company that is less than the best.
- Try to move mid-week. Weekends in summer are especially busy and movers are under less pressure on weekdays. That also means you may be able to negotiate better rates. Avoid Memorial Day weekend and in July steer clear of the end of the month which is when moving companies are most in demand.
- With the high demand for moving services and the rush on the road during summer, you need to be flexible in your scheduling – delays may happen even with the best movers. So, be prepared for delays and make sure you plan accordingly.
- Even if you are using professional packing services, there will always be personal possessions that you want to keep with you. Pack these up yourself and get them out of the way before the Packers start. If you plan to do your packing, make sure you budget enough time – there is always more to pack than you think.
- Talking of packing, do you need to take everything from the old house? Find out what you don’t want or need and have a garage sale. Donate the things that do not sell to charity. Also check out junk hauling options available.
- You are moving in summer when it’s hot. Lots of things in the home are heat sensitive. From candles to electronics, clocks, DVDs and more, these items could get damaged in a hot moving truck. Ask your packers for advice or carry these things with you in the car.
- Have the utilities turned on at the new house so that you have air conditioning and lights available when you arrive.
- If the kids are old enough to help with the move, give them specific assigned tasks. This will keep them occupied and out of the way. If the kids are too young, arrange for someone to look after them on moving day as it can be dangerous for little kids to move around unsupervised.
- Don’t forget to make arrangements for keeping your pets fed, hydrated and comfortable during the move. Larger animals are especially prone to heat-related ailments.
- If you feel the effects of heat, think of how much worse it is for the movers. It is always nice to ensure that everyone has water throughout the move.
Also Read: Moving Tips for a Quick Local Move
Moving a family with all its belongings to a new location is always a complex logistical exercise. Basic tips like these will help you plan your move and avoid many hassles. However, no two families or moves are the same and for the best guidance relating to the specifics of your move, you need the services of a professional moving service. Whether you need local or long-distance relocation services, the experience and expertise of a professional moving company will ensure that your move is as smooth, comfortable and safe as possible.
