Moving in the summer: tips and checklist

Are you planning a summer move? The longer days and warmer weather offer a great opportunity to get settled into your new home. But the heat and busy schedules can add extra pressure. 

However, with the right planning, you can handle the heat, stay organized, and make the move a success. Check out these summer moving tips to make your move smoother and less stressful!

Plan ahead

Summer is a popular time for moving, so it’s important to start planning early. Begin by booking your moving company or renting a truck as soon as you can. The earlier you secure your spot, the better chance you have of getting the date and time you want. Many people take advantage of summer moves. It means availability can get tight, especially on weekends or at the end of the month.

In contrast, winter moves are less common due to colder temperatures, unpredictable conditions, and holiday commitments.

Search reliable movers

If you’re hiring movers, research reputable companies and read reviews to find the best one for your needs. A little time spent on this step can make a huge difference in ensuring a smooth summer moving. A few recommendations:

1. Look for companies that are licensed, insured, and have a solid track record. 
2. You can also ask friends or family for recommendations if they’ve had a positive experience with a moving company. Especially during hot moving, it’s crucial to have professionals who know how to handle the heat. 
3. Also look for movers who are committed to transporting furniture safely and efficiently.
4. When reading reviews, pay attention to the details. Positive reviews about summer moves should mention reliability, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings. 
5. On the flip side, watch out for recurring complaints like delays, damaged items, or poor customer service.

Additionally, check if the company offers any guarantees for your items during transit. Some heat movers provide added insurance options that can give you peace of mind in case something gets damaged. Be sure to ask about these before signing any contracts.

It’s also worth getting multiple quotes. Some movers charge by the hour, while others offer a flat rate based on distance or the size of your summer move. Having a clear understanding of pricing will help you avoid any surprise fees later on.

Make a checklist 

Creating a checklist is one of the best ways to stay organized and reduce stress during your summer move. A detailed to-do list will help you keep track of important tasks and ensure nothing slips through the cracks. Here’s a checklist to guide you through the process:

6 weeks before summer moving

• Start packing non-essential items (e.g., books, seasonal clothes, decor).
• Arrange for any special services (e.g., storage, cleaning services).
• Notify your employer about your move and any time off that is needed.
• Contact schools or daycare to transfer records or notify them of your change in address.

4 weeks before moving

• Create a summer moving day plan and share it with everyone involved.
• Start packing up more frequently used items, leaving essentials for last.
• Schedule time for any repairs needed on your old home (if applicable).
• Confirm all moving details with your moving company (date, time, costs).
• Begin notifying service providers (internet, cable, insurance) of your summer move.

2 weeks before moving

• Pack up your kitchen and other frequently used areas. You can use spring moving tips to stay more organized.
• Label boxes clearly with the room and contents for easy unpacking after the summer move.
• Clean out your fridge and dispose of any perishable items.
• Set up a change of address with the postal service.
• Notify banks, insurance, and subscription services about your new address.
• Confirm parking permits for the moving truck.

1 week before moving

• Pack your essentials bag with everything you'll need for the first night in your new home after moving (clothes, toiletries, documents).
• Disassemble furniture or any large items if needed.
• Double-check the summer moving schedule and confirm with movers or helpers.
• Take inventory of your packed boxes to ensure nothing gets lost.
• Do a final sweep of your old home to check for forgotten items.
• Clean your old home (if renting, you might want to schedule a cleaning service).

Moving day

• Have snacks, water, and drinks ready for the moving crew.
• Do a walk-through of your old place to ensure everything is packed and ready for summer move.
• Provide clear instructions for unloading at the new place.
• Do one final check of your old home to ensure nothing is left behind.
• Keep important documents (e.g., lease agreements, ID, moving contract) with you at all times.

By creating a timeline and breaking down the tasks week by week, you’ll avoid any last-minute rushes and ensure your summer moving goes smoothly. 

Handle the heat

The summer heat can be exhausting. This is especially true if you’re moving heavy furniture or carrying boxes up and down stairs. 

To keep cool and stay safe, try to plan your summer move during the cooler hours of the day. Early mornings and late evenings are ideal for tackling the bulk of your move. 

If you’re moving with seniors, avoid the hottest part of the day when the sun is strongest to ensure their comfort and safety. Make sure to have plenty of water available and take regular breaks to stay hydrated throughout the move. If you’re hiring movers, ensure they have access to drinks and shade during hot moving.

Stay organized

It is one of the keys to a smooth move. Start by decluttering your home before packing. Get rid of items you no longer need. This will not only make your summer move easier but also help you settle into your new place faster.

• As you pack, label your boxes clearly with their contents and the room they belong to. This simple step will save you time and frustration when unpacking. Consider using color-coded stickers or markers to make things even clearer.
• Don’t forget to pack an essentials box with items you’ll need immediately, like toiletries, clothes, and important documents. Keep this box with you during the summer move, so you don’t have to dig through multiple boxes to find what you need.

Protect your belongings

The summer heat and hot moving can sometimes cause items like electronics or delicate furniture to be damaged. To protect your belongings, use moving blankets, bubble wrap, or packing paper for fragile items. For electronics, make sure they are packed securely in their original boxes if possible.

If your summer moving involves transporting plants, be mindful of the temperature. Keep them in the shade and water them before the move to help them stay hydrated. Extreme heat can stress or damage plants, so take extra care by planning the transport carefully. Also try to limit their exposure to direct sunlight during the move.

The best choice for summer moves

Move 4U expert movers offer a full-service summer moving experience. We ensure a seamless and stress-free summer move. From packing and transportation to logistics and unloading, we handle every detail with care. Trust your move to the professionals!