When Is the Best Time to Move Long Distance

October 23, 2018 / Posted in Moving Basics
Anastasia Hill

Apart from being the next fashion icon, Anastasia is also a freelance writer and expert on moving (and packing clothes).

When is the best time to move? There is no universally correct answer to this question. Many factors will influence the final decision, from personal circumstances to the sheer logistics. Sometimes, you might not even have that much of a choice. With that being said, let’s do our best to unravel that notorious mystery of how to know when to move.

a watch on the hand
Some seasons are better for the move than the others

When Is the Best Time to Move? There Are Plenty of Variables in This Equation

We know what you’re wondering right off the bat – when do most people move?

Well, most US citizens are packing up their bags and taking this big leap somewhere between mid-May and mid-September. It makes perfect sense because, let’s face it, no one wants to haul boxes in the middle of a snowstorm!

Most Americans move between Memorial Day and Labor Day

The sun’s out, the days are long, and there’s just something about that summer vibe that makes big changes feel a little less stressful. Plus, if you’re relocating with kids, they’re out of school, making it the perfect time to pack up without disrupting their routine (or yours). So, whether it’s the warmer weather or the chance to start fresh before fall, it’s considered the peak season when it comes to long-distance moving.

A BETTER WAY FOR MOVING! GET A QUOTE

The Right Month and Season Depend on Your Circumstances

While most people might find a reason to move during the warmer months, that doesn’t mean you’ve got to join the party. Interstate relocation is never easy, or cheap for that matter, and there will be plenty of circumstances surrounding it that will influence the final decision of when to move.

Are you moving for a job? Are you relocating alone or with your family? Are you relocating on a low budget? There are so many aspects to think about. Sometimes, you will have to compromise between convenience and lower costs. However, the good news is that there’s always a way to adjust. But when it comes to the weather and the prices of long-distance moving services, the fall and spring months are ideal.

girl sitting on the floor and thinking
The timing will very much depend on your circumstances

Why Are Spring and Fall Months Ideal for Cross-Country Moving?

Climate is the main reason why relocating during the fall or spring should be considered. With both seasons, the temperatures are still high enough but not scorching, which will make the whole process a lot more comfortable.

The only thing you’ll have to worry about is moving in the rain, which can create some difficulties. The biggest challenge here is the fact your belongings might get wet during loading, and the roads might be more slippery. However, as with anything nowadays, there are plenty of relocation hacks that can help you navigate rainy days.

But let’s not forget about the relocation budget! As spring and fall are not peak seasons, the moving and auto transport company you end up working with might just pull up some quotes that will be more than pleasant to hear.

Kids at school
If you don't have little ones, the spring and fall months are ideal

Are There Any Benefits to Relocating During the Colder Months?

Although you may get chills down your spine when you even think about relocating your home in the winter months, this is the best period to do it if you’re working with a lower budget. The market demand for renting and buying apartments is at its lowest, and you could get some great deals.

As for the long-distance movers, this is their off-season and due to the lower demand, you might just get some stellar prices for packing services and any other help you might need.

Obviously, the drawback is the low temperatures, snowfall, and overall extreme weather. But when you’re working with an experienced relocation and car shipping company such as Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving, even these obstacles can be avoided in order to have a safe move.

When Is the Moving Season?

As we’ve already discussed, most people are hiring cross-country movers between mid-May to mid-September. This timeframe reaches its peak in July and August, as there’s a slight warm-up in June and a declining trend in September.

Why is it like this? Well, first of all, most people choose these months because they can get days off from work, and they use it to handle this big task. Second, the kids have a long summer break and it is easier for them to adjust to the new surroundings and get to the new school fresh, without any relocation stress. The last perk is, of course, the beautiful weather without any rain or snow.

a palm three
Warm weather and many free days to spare make summer ideal for relocation

Why Relocating in Summer Can Be a Good Thing, and Why It Can Be a Bad Choice?

As we’ve already mentioned, the days you can spare during the summer to organize the move can help you have a stress-free relocation, with plenty of time to do each task on your to-do list. If you’re doing it for the first time, you might not even know how much work goes into the whole ordeal. Here are just a couple of things you’ll need to do:

  • Declutter your home,
  • Stock up on packing materials,
  • Contact a long-distance moving company,
  • Clean the current home,
  • Pack everything.

Here Are the Drawbacks of Relocating in the Summer

While you might love the heat of the summer, it can make it quite challenging when it comes to strenuous tasks such as loading and unloading furniture. To be on the safe side, avoid all the heavy lifting in the hottest parts of the day – leave those tasks for the morning or the evening.

You should also try to isolate things that might be heat-sensitive, like plants and electronics. But maybe the biggest drawback of them all is the fact that the prices are definitely not working in your favor during the warmer months. The demand is huge, and the costs reflect that.

area view of phoenix
Scorching temperatures can create some serious issues, so make sure you're safe

What If You Don’t Have a Choice?

Although it would be nice to have the choice, sometimes you can even ask yourself – when is the right time to move out? For whatever reason, if that is the case, there are a few useful relocation tips to prepare and organize everything, even if it’s last minute. The key is to schedule your tasks, hire services as soon as you find out, and be mindful of the climate, as well as the budget you’re working with.

How to Optimize the Relocation Process According to the Weather

Every weather requires some adjustments. For example, if you are moving during summer, you should do your best to avoid extreme heat – it’s not a good thing for anyone involved in the relocation, nor for your belongings. Protect yourself from dehydration, and keep a water bottle nearby. Always take extra caution in placing and packing heat-sensitive items. On the flip side, if you’re relocating during winter, you should always stay warm and protected from the elements.

girl holding a to do list
Every period of the year is good for a move if you do it with a plan

The Final Countdown – Timing Everything Just Right!

The answer to this question is not simple – like with most big decisions in life, it depends! The key is to match your move to your priorities – whether that’s cost, weather, or simply making the transition as smooth as possible.

No matter when you decide to make the big move, Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving is here to help! Our expert team will ensure that everything – from your beloved furniture to that prized car – arrives safely and on time. Contact us today to make this transition a breeze!

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