Moving can be a hassle, especially if you’re moving to a location far from where you currently live. Because of this, it’s best to plan your move ahead of time. However, if you’ve ever moved before, you know that when you move can affect your whole moving process – especially if you’re hiring a moving or shipping service. With this in mind, it’s essential to know the best season, month, and even day to move!
What Is the Peak Moving Season?
Summer is traditionally known as a popular time for moving. Usually, the peak moving season starts in April and lasts until September.
There are many reasons why most relocations happen in summer. After graduation, students move to other cities, families relocate while their children are on summer breaks, and military workers often change their location due to work command in the spring or summertime. Workers who have seasonal jobs also switch locations throughout the summertime. It is much easier to move in the warmer seasons than in winter.
How Does Peak Moving Season Affect Your Plans to Move?
Considering how sensible it is to move while the weather is fair, you may think that it’s smart to move during peak moving season. However, moving services are typically more expensive during peak moving season due to high demand. High demand also means there will be fewer companies available to help you with moving.
Because of this, you could end up spending way more on moving services during peak moving season. This premium could be up to 30% more expensive than normal. So, if you want to hire the best services and get them at an affordable price, it’s not a good idea to move during the peak moving season.
When Is the Best Time to Move?
Although there is a defined moving season, it is hard to say when is the best time to move. Every case is different. Depending on your current location and the region you’re moving to, the best time to move can be different. Usually, it is recommended to arrange your relocation during the off-season. Starting in late September and mid-spring, there is a big chance to move without rushing and breaking a budget. Most shipping services have loose schedules compared to the summer season, and moving rates are comparably low.
If you’re worried about moving before weather becomes an issue, the most reasonable months to move would be August and September. These months typically have fewer people who are moving and the weather isn’t too severe.
What Is the Best Day of the Week for Moving?
Sunday is the best day for moving in terms of traffic, while Friday is the worst. However, weekdays are cheaper when hiring a moving service. The best weekdays to move would be Tuesday to Thursday.
What Is the Worst Time to Move?
In terms of months, May is the worst time to move. This is the absolute climax of peak moving season, so moving services will be fully booked and traffic will be at its worst.
What Factors Are Important When Moving?
When you’re moving out, there are four main factors you need to consider:
- Housing availability
- Moving budget
- Personal situation
Housing Availability
First off, you have to consider the availability of housing at the location you want to move to. If you’re moving somewhere rural, there may be limited options for available housing. If you’re moving to a very urban area, it will probably be hard to find an affordable, comfortable place quickly. Either way, you will want to secure a place as soon as possible – which means you might have to move earlier than necessary. Planning ahead will help you get everything moved on time.
Moving Budget
Of course, moving will cost you some money. The only question is how much you can afford to spend. If you’re working with a very tight budget, you may be able to move with the help of a vehicle and some friends or family. However, this only applies if you’re moving to a reasonably near location.
If you’re moving to a location that is more than a short drive away, the best way to manage your budget is by securely packing your belongings and having them shipped via freight carrier. This way, you only need to bring the most sensitive belongings when you go to your new home. However, if you have a large budget, your best option is to hire a professional moving service.
In general, the best way to save money is to plan weeks, or even months, ahead. This way, you can schedule services for the exact dates you want. Plus, you might even get cheaper prices!
Personal Situation
Finally, your personal situation will dictate when you need to move. If you’re moving for work or school, you might be forced into moving during the peak moving season.
However, if you secure housing ahead of time (for example, employer-provided housing or a school dorm), you may be able to move before peak moving season really hits. Just try to take into account the factors that you can’t control, and try to work around them.
How to Survive the Moving Season?
Regardless of the season, investigation and planning won’t hurt. Before booking any services, ask for advice from a real estate agent or another expert that knows the region’s specifics. The busy season can be completely different in two other parts of the country. Knowing tricks and arranging the moving procedure will save you time and money.
Hiring a shipping service would be a better option than a do-it-yourself move-out. There are plenty of services for every need and budget. Some services even allow you to compare quotes before booking a shipment.
One of the quickest ways to find the best freight carrier for your needs is to use a freight marketplace like GoShip, which helps you compare freight carriers in terms of services and price ranges.
Visit GoShip now and get an instant online quote for your freight needs!