If your circumstances allow you to pick the season and date when you move, you’re already one step ahead. When you can choose your move date, you have more control over how straightforward your move will be.
Picking the right moving date offers a number of benefits, so it’s important to know when the best time to move is for you. Of course, every move is different, yet there are a few variables to bear in mind to create the best moving circumstances possible.
When is the best season to move?
If your move is flexible enough where you can pick the season that you pack up and go, you’re in the minority – however, it does still happen. Here are the pros and cons of each season and what you can expect when you choose to move during these times of year:
Summer
Pros:
- The weather is nice
- You can use paid vacation days to organize the move
- The kids are out of school to help with the efforts
- Cons:
- Sometimes, the weather is too hot
- Higher mover company prices
- Low availability of useful moving supplies
Winter:
- Pros:
- Moving companies charge less
- Availability of movers is higher
- Cons:
- Cold, unpredictable weather
Spring and fall
- Pros:
- Reasonable mover prices
- Mild weather
- Cons:
- Disruption of the kids’ school year
What days of the month should I move?
Did you know that there are certain days in the month that are better for a move? There are also days that make for a less convenient move. If you have the freedom to pick the day of the month that you move house, you might even be able to get reduced moving costs.
The busiest moving days for a moving company are the first few days of the month and the last few days of the month. These are the days when rental leases end, so people who live in rental properties will need to move out and move in around this time.
Moving costs around these times of the month will be higher. Truck rental agencies also know that more people are moving during these times of the month, which means that DIY moves cost more around these periods as well.
If you can help it, avoid moving at the beginning or at the end of the month. You’ll have access to a wider range of supplies, and the rate for movers will be lower. Keep in mind that during the peak moving season of summer, you can expect costs to be on the higher end regardless of the time of month.
What day of the week should I move?
Picking the right day of the week is another crucial detail. Keep in mind that weekends are always going to be more expensive than weekdays, since demand for movers is higher on those days (because people are off work and can move more easily). If you can pick the day of the week for your move happen, aim for somewhere in the middle of the week.
What hour should I move?
Yes, even the hour you choose matters. Most moves take place in the morning, especially during the summer because you can get the job done before the hottest part of the day. If you’re completing a local move, you probably want to be in your new place by the end of the day, so it makes sense to start in the morning.
Choosing a morning move is often the best route to take, but you might get a discount if you choose a time of day that most people don’t pick, like the afternoon or the evening.
When to move
You may be able to get a notable discount on your move if you move:
- During the off-season (September-May)
- In the middle of the month
- On a weekday
- In the late afternoon or evening
The goal is to make your move as convenient as possible, and knowing these details can help make that happen. Having the freedom to choose when you move means you’re already starting off on the right foot, and you’re well on your way to having the most seamless – and streamlined – move possible.