What You Need to Know About Moving During Peak Season

Moving is already a stressful process, but doing it during peak season? That’s a whole different challenge. The period between May and September is the busiest time of year for movers. Families relocate before school starts, college students transition into dorms, and the weather is ideal for moving trucks to hit the road. If you’re planning a move during this time, here’s everything you need to know to make it as smooth as possible.

1. Book Your Movers Early

During peak season, moving companies are in high demand. If you wait until the last minute, you’ll either struggle to find availability or end up paying premium prices. Ideally, book your movers at least 8 weeks in advance. If you’re moving in June, July, or August, plan even earlier; 10 to 12 weeks ahead is ideal.

Pro Tip:

• Get at least three quotes from different moving companies.
• Check reviews and ensure they are licensed and insured.
• Ask about cancellation policies in case your plans change.

2. Prepare for Higher Costs

‍The high demand for movers means higher prices. Expect to pay anywhere from 20-30% more than you would in the off-season. Moving companies charge more for labor, truck rentals, and fuel during the summer months.

‍Ways to Save Money:

• Move mid-week or mid-month – Most people move on weekends and at the beginning/end of the month.
• Be flexible with your moving date – If possible, let the moving company choose a less busy day.
• Declutter before the move – The less you move, the less you pay.

3. Beware of Moving Scams

‍Unfortunately, peak season attracts shady moving companies looking to take advantage of desperate customers. Common scams include:

• Lowball estimates that lead to last-minute price hikes.
• Holding belongings hostage until you pay additional fees.
• Fake moving companies disappearing with your deposit.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Verify your mover’s USDOT number on the FMCSA website.
• Avoid companies that only accept cash or demand large upfront deposits.
• Get everything in writing – including costs, services, and estimated delivery dates.

4. Consider Alternative Moving Options

‍If professional movers are out of your budget or unavailable, consider:

• Moving truck rentals – U-Haul, Budget, and Penske offer self-drive options.
• Portable storage containers – Companies like PODS and U-Pack drop off a container for you to load at your own pace.
• Freight shipping services – If you don’t need immediate delivery, freight companies can be a cost-effective option.

5. Plan for the Heat

‍Moving during peak season also means dealing with hot weather. High temperatures can make the process exhausting and even dangerous.

‍How to Stay Cool and Safe:

• Start as early in the morning as possible.
• Keep plenty of water and snacks on hand.
• Wear light, breathable clothing and use sunscreen.
• Have a cooling station with fans or a shady area for breaks.

6. Pack Smart to Avoid Stress

‍Because peak season moves are often rushed, packing efficiently can save you headaches.

‍Best Packing Strategies:

• Label everything clearly – Movers will be handling multiple jobs in a day, so make sure your boxes are marked with your name and room destination.
• Pack an essentials box – Include chargers, toiletries, snacks, and important documents so you don’t have to dig through boxes on your first night.
• Use quality packing materials – Summer heat can weaken cheap tape, and fragile items may be at risk if packed improperly.

7. Account for Traffic and Delays

‍Summer is also road trip season, which means highways are crowded with vacationers, construction zones, and potential traffic delays.

‍How to Prepare for Travel Woes:

• Check traffic patterns and plan your route accordingly.
• If hiring movers, confirm their estimated delivery window.
• If driving a rental truck, factor in fuel stops and rest breaks.
• Have a backup plan in case delays push your arrival into late evening or the next day.

8. Confirm Everything the Week Before

‍Things can change quickly in the busy season. Movers may have last-minute adjustments, rental trucks may be overbooked, or unexpected circumstances may arise.

‍What to Confirm:

• The exact date, time, and location with your moving company.
• Rental truck or storage container delivery schedules.
• Your new home’s availability – ensure utilities are set up and the space is ready.
• Parking permits if needed for moving trucks.

9. Prepare for Temporary Housing If Needed

‍With high demand, there’s a chance you may experience delays in closing dates, lease start dates, or move-in times. Have a backup plan in case you need to stay in a hotel, Airbnb, or with friends for a few days.

‍Options to Consider:

• Book a hotel with flexible cancellation policies.
• Check if your moving company offers temporary storage.
• Keep extra clothes and essentials in a separate bag in case of unexpected delays.

10. Stay Calm and Expect the Unexpected

‍Even the best-laid plans can face hiccups. Movers may run late, traffic may cause delays, or weather conditions could complicate things. The key is to stay flexible and patient.

‍Mindset Tips for a Stress-Free Move:

• Focus on what you can control.
• Have a sense of humor about mishaps.
• Accept that minor delays and adjustments are part of the process.

Final Thoughts

Moving during peak season requires early planning, flexibility, and patience. With high demand, increased costs, and potential delays, it’s important to book movers early, prepare for extra expenses, and have a backup plan in place. By following these steps, you can reduce stress and make your move as smooth as possible, even in the busiest months of the year. If you’re gearing up for a peak-season move, start planning today. The sooner you get organized, the smoother your transition will be.