With its longer days, warmer weather, and the kiddos being on school break, summer is typically a popular season for families to move. While there are indeed a lot of good reasons to move during this time of year, a summer move can also present a unique set of challenges, such as high temperatures, increased demand for moving services, and the added responsibility of coordinating around family vacations, holidays and other seasonal events.
If you’re planning a move during the summer months, a proactive approach can make all the difference. With the right preparation, you can minimize stress and ensure a smooth, efficient transition to your new home. The following tips offer practical guidance to help you stay organized, cool, and in control throughout your summer move:
Plan early & secure services in advance
One of the most crucial elements of a successful summer move is timing. Moving companies experience peak demand during the summer, making it potentially more difficult to secure trucks, labor, and storage options. To avoid scheduling conflicts and inflated costs, you should try to begin planning well in advance. Ideally, you should book your moving company at least six to eight weeks prior to your desired date. You can also consider scheduling your move during a weekday or mid-month when demand is typically lower.
Develop a comprehensive moving checklist’
Given the many details involved in a move, especially during a busy summer, a detailed checklist is essential for staying on track. Break down tasks by month, week and day to make the process more manageable. Your checklist should include actionable steps, such as notifying utility providers to arrange service disconnections or transfers, gathering important documents like medical and school records, submitting a change-of-address request with the USPS, and beginning the packing process—starting with non-essential items. You can also put together additional checklists specific to your children and pets and to help make your summer move as easy as possible on them as well.
Schedule moves in the morning to beat the heat
To avoid the most intense heat of the day, try to schedule your move during the early morning hours when temperatures are typically cooler. This can make the experience more comfortable and efficient—both for those using professional movers and those undertaking a DIY move. Be sure to dress in light and breathable clothing, and apply sunscreen as needed. Portable fans or cooling towels can also help to reduce the risk of overheating.
Stay hydrated & take regular breaks
Even when starting in the early a.m. hours, heat exhaustion can be a serious concern during a summer move. Whether you’re working with a moving crew or doing it yourself, make hydration a priority. Drink water every 30 to 60 minutes and opt for light snacks to maintain energy levels. Take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas and be alert for signs of heat-related illness, such as dizziness, nausea, or headaches. If symptoms occur, stop what you’re doing immediately and cool down.
Declutter before packing
Summer is an excellent time to lighten your load. The fewer belongings you need to transport, the easier and more cost-effective your move will be. Take this opportunity to sort through your possessions and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. Host a garage sale, list items on online marketplaces, or donate gently used items to local charities. Getting rid of unused and unwanted items not only streamlines the move but also offers a fresh start in your new home.
Safeguard heat-sensitive items
Summer heat can be damaging to certain belongings, such as electronics, toiletries, candles, and perishable goods. To avoid potential loss or damage, transport sensitive items in a climate-controlled vehicle. Do not leave valuables or electronics in a hot moving truck and be sure to use insulated containers or coolers for anything that might melt or spoil.
Leverage technology for better organization
Several digital tools are available to help streamline your move. Apps such as Sortly or Moving Checklist Pro can assist with inventory and task management, while services like TaskRabbit can help you find local assistance. Platforms like Nextdoor are useful for giving away or selling unwanted items to neighbors, and note-taking apps like Google Keep or Evernote can help you keep track of important information and reminders.
Though a summer move brings its own set of challenges, thoughtful planning and flexibility can make the experience both manageable and rewarding. From early booking and careful packing to proper hydration and strategic timing, these tips will help ensure a stress-free relocation process. Embrace the spirit of the season, stay cool, and enjoy the journey to your new home. Happy Moving Day!
Need more tips for your upcoming move?
Our Ultimate Moving Pack has checklists and worksheets to help ease the stress of packing and moving.
