With kids out of school, warm weather, and the home buying season at its peak, most people prefer moving during the summer. An estimated 13% of relocations occur during the summer compared to the less than 8% witnessed in other months. Unfortunately, apart from the high moving costs occasioned by the peak season, you should also prepare to deal with the inclement hot summer weather.
Packing boxes and lifting furniture under the scorching sun isn’t an easy task. Below are a few tips for easy moving during summer.
Hire Movers Ahead of Time
Deciding whether you should move DIY or hire professional movers should be the first thing on your to-do list, whether you are relocating during summer or winter. While moving DIY is cost-saving, hiring professional movers saves time, energy, and effort. Therefore, if your moving budget allows, opt for moving companies.
That said, you should hire movers ahead of time for various reasons. For starters, the summer period is a peak season, meaning most moving companies are overbooked or offer highly-priced services. Therefore, you should make smart reservations, such as booking early, to avoid hefty fees. Booking late is among the many common mistakes that you should avoid.
Schedule an Early Morning Move
The best way to beat the scorching summer heat is to plan your relocation for the early morning. You should avoid moving in the afternoon, especially if the old or new home is in a hot climate. When planning your summer move, scheduling an early morning move is best.
Generally, the sun’s UV rays are strongest between 11 am and 3 pm. Therefore, moving during this period isn’t prudent. An early morning move ensures that you enjoy a cooler, probably 10 degrees difference, moving conditions.
Pack Accordingly
You should mind the intense summer temperatures when packing your belongings. Most importantly is keeping track of items considered vulnerable to high temperatures. Unique items, such as vinyl records, books, photographs, clothing, antiques, linens, and some electronics, can warp when exposed to intense temperatures.
If you are relocating locally, pack them last into the track. This ensures that you unpack them first. For a long-distance move, consider carrying them in your car to prevent damage from uncontrolled temperatures.
Choose the Right Clothing
You should adhere to several clothing rules when dressing for the summer move. For starters, you should wear something lightweight and loose-fitting made from a breathable fabric. Cotton and linen clothes absorb moisture and sweat faster, ensuring that you stay dry during the process.
You should also prefer light-colored clothes in whites and neutrals as they reflect light. Dark colored or black clothes absorb sunlight, increasing your body temperature. Lastly, avoid clothes made from synthetic fabrics, such as polyester and rayon.
Have Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is generally important during summer. Unfortunately, most people overlook the importance of replenishing body fluids during the moving day. Relocating is overly stressful and sweaty, and the last thing you want to experience is the impending symptoms of heat stroke or dehydration.
Stock your cooler with water boxes the night before. Make sure you have enough ice to fill your cooler and share with others helping with the move. You should as well consider offering hydrating freezer pops to the moving team.
Be Aware of Symptoms of Overheating
Extended exposure to high temperatures is very dangerous. If you didn’t manage to move early in the morning, afternoon temperatures can take a toll on your moving team. Therefore, you should be wary of the signs of heat-related conditions. Common symptoms of overheating include:
- Migraine headaches
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Dizziness and fainting
- Muscle cramps and seizures
- General confusion
If anybody in your moving team shows these signs, seek immediate help.
Schedule an Advantageous Moving Date
Moving during the summer is certainly expensive. As mentioned, increased prices result from high demand for professional moving services. Even though many people plan their moves during this period, you should use every opportunity to save on moving costs. Scheduling a beneficial moving date is a smart way to lower overall costs.
That said, start by scheduling your move midweek. Most people prefer moving Friday, Saturdays, and Sundays. This means movers will most likely negotiate their weekday deals. You should also pick a date away from the start or end of the month. Those who rent prefer moving during this period when rental leases end.
Don’t Get Scammed
The surge in demand for moving services presents an opportunity for malicious persons to prey on unsuspecting clients, especially senior citizens. Therefore, you should choose your moving company cautiously to avoid being scammed. Ensure that the company has a solid website, company calls are answered with the company’s name, have company branded trucks, and doesn’t require full payment or large deposits upfront.
The Bottom Line
Moving during the summer has its fair share of pros and cons. However, you shouldn’t rely on the discounted rates for late fall, early spring, or winter. If you must relocate due to employment reasons, a school for kids, or family issues, the above tips can facilitate a seamless move.
