Why Summer Moves are Better + 8 Tips for Moving in the Heat

Are you torn between moving in the summer or winter? The answer depends on where you are moving from and where you are moving to. Unless you’re in an abnormally hot place (yes, we mean hotter than Florida), we suggest trying to move during the summer. We understand that moving can cause major upheavals in your life, especially if you have a family or are starting a new job. Handling a stressful move can take a lot out of you. That’s why we’re here to provide some tips that will help make your summer moving process as easy as possible.

Couple looking out window

The summer is the most popular time of year to move for good reason. Why might you ask? Well, the weather’s a good place to start. While it can get very hot in some parts of the country, that still beats moving when there is ice and snow on the ground. If you’re concerned about the heat, there are steps you can take to prevent heat exhaustion. 

First, be sure to secure a moving truck with air conditioning. You should also consider a climate-controlled storage unit to cut down on your time in the heat. 

Next, try not to move in the middle of the day if you know it’s going to be hot outside. Plan your move to start early in the morning and take a break when temperatures reach their peak. While this approach may take longer, it will keep you and your assistants from working up too much of a sweat. 

children leaning out of car on a sunny day during a move

Finally, before you start your summer move, take a few minutes to read through these moving tips.

  1. If you’re relocating for a job, try to sign a short-term lease while you search for a permanent place to call home.
    Short-term leases in small spaces are easy to come by during the summer. This tip is especially helpful when you’re moving to a new city that you’re not familiar with. Before settling on where you’re going to live, take some time to get to know the area. You want to find a neighborhood that’s suited to your needs. For example, if you have kids, then choosing a neighborhood in a good school district should be a priority. You should also think about your commute time. If you can get a place near your new job, you can cut down on time spent away from home. If your short term lease is in a small space, store items you don’t need access to daily in a storage unit. Units at HideAway are climate-controlled, secure, and inexpensive. 
  2. When moving in the summer you need to be careful with certain items that you put into a moving truck.
    The cab of a moving truck will be air-conditioned, which should keep you comfortable. But the storage area of the truck won’t be. That means that temperatures can climb into the triple digits quite quickly. Try to pack your heat-sensitive items, like electronics, last. Packing those belongings last means they’ll get to the air conditioning first. 
  3. Pack well in advance of your moving date.
    Moving is stressful enough without having to rush in the heat. Start by packing things that you know you need, but you don’t need right now.
  4. Since it’s the summer, pack up your winter clothes and holiday decorations.
    The more you pack before your move date, the easier that the moving process will be for you.
  5. Make sure that you stay hydrated.
    Even if you do most of the work in the morning and evening, summertime temperatures can still be taxing. Heat exhaustion or stroke are both possibilities when you are doing a physical job in the heat. Be on the lookout for signs of heat-related illnesses. There are a few ways to combat this, chief amongst them is to stay hydrated. Water is good, but sports drinks that have sugars and electrolytes are better. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing, and avoid moving during the hottest part of the day.
  6. Don’t forget to change your address with any companies that you do business with.
    This isn’t so much a summer moving tip as it is a general moving tip. We suggest informing the post office of your address change at least a month before moving. This will ease your transition to a new place so you won’t have to worry about your mail not showing up. You might consider using a P.O. box for a month or two while you look for the right permanent home for you and your family.
  7. Consider hiring a moving company.
    Moving is hard work, and during the warmer months, it’s even harder. If your budget allows for it, you might hire professionals to handle the moving process for you. Is hiring movers a significant expense? It is, but considering the amount of hard work that it will save you, it’s an expense that is worth paying if you can afford it.
  8. If your schedule allows it, try moving during the week.
    Moving on weekends is what most people do because it’s convenient. However, you can expect to pay more to rent a moving truck, or to hire movers because the demand is higher. If you are between jobs or have some vacation days, moving in the middle of the week will save you money.
couple holding packed boxes on a sunny summer moving day

Moving is stressful, but if you plan properly, you can ease the tension. Whether you’re relocating for a new job or finding a place for your family, moving in the summer is a great choice. Save yourself some time and money, and don’t fight the elements.