Dos and Don’ts of Moving in Warmer Months

Dos and Don’ts of Moving in Warmer Months

Did you know that most moves occur between Memorial Day and Labor Day? The apparent reason is that school is out and families are more flexible with their time.

But there are other reasons: you don’t have to battle icy weather, especially if you live in a state where bad winter weather is consistent. Moving in warmer weather has plenty of advantages. You just want to take time to think through a plan and begin your move earlier in the day so you do not have to deal with summer’s heat.

To avoid a sweaty and exhausting summer move, hire professionals for heavy lifting and focus on other tasks. For more summer moving tips, see our dos and don’ts.

Moving This Summer: Here’s What You Need to Know

Do expect to pay more

Because summer is the height of the moving season, you can expect to pay more for your move. It’s the most expensive time to move. Everything from moving containers to moving companies is in high demand during the summer months (also known as “peak moving season”).

The reason? The weather is generally favorable for moving, and there are fewer holidays to consider. During the summer, families with school-age children often choose to move so children can be settled and ready to step into a new school by the fall. College students also move in and out of their dorms at the start and end of summer.

Do start the move early in the day

Beat the heat by starting your move early in the day! Beginning your move in the morning means you have a greater chance of beating the heat! This is when temperatures and humidity levels tend to be lowest. Start around 8 a.m. or earlier, and you’ll reap the benefits of an easier move and also wrapping up your move sooner. Check availability with your moving company. They will know exactly how to get you to your new home with less summer stress.

Don’t wear heavy fabrics and inappropriate clothing

Don’t worry about being super stylish during a summer move. Wear breathable clothes that are flexible and comfortable. Moving in the summer heat means wearing light weight clothes like cotton tops. But a real must-wear is flat, closed toed shoes with socks. You want to make sure you protect your feet. Flip-flops just won’t work. Remember, moving involves lots of walking, lifting and standing, so think comfort!

Don’t forget water bottles for yourself and the movers

Make sure you stay hydrated. Don’t just load up on sweet drinks with caffeine. You will want to have plenty of water on hand for you and your team. Most moving companies will have plenty of water, but it is wise to keep water bottles where you can grab one at any time. Be sure to offer water to movers and helpers along with energy snacks. Your group will be more than grateful!

Avoid Moving During a Holiday Weekend

Once you set your plan in place, you will want to double check availability with your moving company. Keep in mind that moving on or near a major holiday is much more expensive, so choose a weekend that works for you and is financially wise.

If you do move on a holiday weekend, you need to plan for heavy traffic. Days like July 4th also involve holiday traffic, parties, and parades. Those can make a normal move much harder.

Turn the AC on in your new home

Make sure your air conditioning is working and turned on in your new home in advance. To avoid issues, check all your utilities in advance. If you are moving across the state, then you may want to ask your real estate agent if he or she can drop by the house and make sure the AC is running and the home is pleasant. Moving closer by? Just switch the AC on the day before the move to cool down your home.

Extra Note: Thinking ahead is one of the most important things you can do during a summer move. Believe it or not: portable fans help to circulate air and keep your team cooler. Anticipate heat but welcome a nice cooler day if it is on the weather map!

Set a fan near the entrance of the home and/or where your movers will be loading and unloading the truck. Portable fans are inexpensive and can be found at nearby home stores like Home Depot, Lowes, and Walmart. 

Don’t forget to put perishables in coolers

If you are moving within a few miles, then be sure to pack your coolers well and move them to your new home. You can even do this the day before your big move and have some of your kitchen set up and ready to go with cold water and sodas. If your move is longer, most coolers are cold enough to keep things fresh for a longer period of time. Salvage everything from milk and juices to veggies and fruits. 

Do keep electronics cool

Most movers like for you to take as many electronics with you as possible. Summer months are hot, and leaving computers in cars or moving vans can spell trouble. So use extra caution when packing and moving electronics. Electrical items, such as smartphones, laptops, TVs, and appliances, often do not perform well in hot conditions. Therefore, place electronics on the moving truck last, and remove them first upon arrival. It is best to pack them in waterproof bins and bags to protect against any potential damage.

 

Moving During Summer Months Takes Planning

Interview and hire movers several months before the move, and make sure you begin packing your boxes and bags at least one month in advance. To assist with creating and following a moving timeline, make sure you have a customizable moving checklist that includes a personal task list, email reminders, telephone numbers of utilities, and even coupons for lunches and dinners out! Stay organized during your moving process,s and you will see your move go quickly and easily. 

Don’t forget the Sunscreen

More than likely you will be outside a good portion of the day directing movers and working to unload items from your car. If this is the case, you will want to applying sunscreen. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends choosing a water-resistant sunscreen with broad-spectrum coverage as well as one that has an SPF of 30 or higher. Make sure to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before heading outside.

Are You Ready for a Summer Move?  

Moving in the summer heat is much easier when you have professionals to help with the heavy lifting. Make sure your relocation company is licensed and insured, so you can rest assured that your move will be in good hands.

If you do choose to do a DIY move plan way in advance to make sure you have a truck available and ready when you are.

With a remarkable history dating back to 1925, Lambert Moving Systems has established itself as a trusted family-owned and operated business. Over the years, we have built a solid reputation for delivering exceptional moving services to countless satisfied customers. When you choose Lambert, you are choosing a company with the highest quality of service. Call or Schedule an Appointment to experience relocation excellence!