Relocating can be overwhelming, from decluttering your closet to booking a moving service. During this chaos, you may not give choosing your moving date the attention it deserves. However, selecting the ideal time to move houses can make this journey smoother.
In this article, we’ll discuss several moving periods, highlighting their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision. So, keep reading for all the details!
When Is the Best Time of the Year to Move?
Generally, fall and spring are the best times to move since the weather is usually mild. Not to mention, moving costs are typically lower compared to peak moving seasons, like summer.
Still, each season has its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s discuss them in further detail!
- Moving in Spring
While it fluctuates, spring weather is generally mild. Sure, you may want to avoid those April showers. However, early spring is typically warm during the day and cool at night. So, it’s a great time to start living in a new house.
Aside from tolerable weather conditions, moving in the spring has several advantages.
For starters, relocating companies are less in demand compared to the summer. That means you will find your desired date available.
Not to mention, spring is one of the best times of the year to list your house for sale. That’s especially true in April when homes sell for the highest price.
Despite these advantages, the flowering season still has some drawbacks. Moving involves a lot of cleaning and packing, which exposes you to dust. Your relocation journey can be more challenging, combined with pollen and other allergens found in the spring.
- Moving in Fall
Moving in the fall can be a strategic choice. It’s considered an off-season for movers. Consequently, it provides you with the flexibility to schedule your relocation day. You can also expect to pay a reasonable price since moving companies are less busy.
Excellent weather conditions are another reason fall is an ideal time to move. That’s because the hot temperatures start to wither away, replaced by cool, breezy days.
Aside from that, home buyers can get the best deals in October, as properties usually sell for lower prices. You’ll also have some time to settle in and prepare for the holidays.
That said, the harvesting season has some disadvantages. That’s especially true if you have kids since they’ll likely miss school during the move. Plus, moving in the late fall can be tricky due to rain.
- Moving in Winter
As you might have guessed, winter isn’t ideal for moving houses. The weather conditions can be extreme, from freezing temperatures to stormy nights. So, it may not be the best time to move with children.
Additionally, winter is packed with traditional holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year’s Eve. Consequently, finding an available moving date during that time can be tricky. Not to mention, it has shorter daylight hours. That can make your days feel less productive.
Movers are the least in demand during the cold season. Relocating at that time is the most cost-effective.
Winter provides flexible moving dates, excluding the holidays, since there is less competition. However, the biggest perk of moving in the winter is that you get to enjoy your summer!
- Moving in Summer
It comes as no surprise that summer is the peak moving season. For starters, school is out, making it the best time to move if you have children. The weather is generally safe—you don’t have to worry about slippery roads and other unsafe driving conditions. However, you want to avoid peak sun hours during the summer to limit harmful UV radiation exposure.
Summer days are also long, so you can get much cleaning and packing done. Plus, the housing market is busiest during the hot months. Americans typically buy more houses in the summer compared to other seasons. So, you can sell your property at a high price. However, moving companies are usually in high demand during the summer due to these advantages. That’s why relocating during the hot season can be costly.
Factors to Consider When Moving
While choosing the best season to move sets the stage for a smooth relocation journey, you should also consider other factors. These include:
- Weather Conditions
As you know, the weather fluctuates even during a season. That’s why it’s best to check local climate conditions before deciding on a moving day. As a rule, avoid accidents and avoid extreme cold, snowy days. Likewise, don’t travel during scorching summer days since overheating can damage your belongings inside the moving truck.
- Budget and Costs
Factors like the distance of your move and moving company expenses can impact your budget. Therefore, you need to consider picking a moving day during the off-season. Additionally, consider moving mid-month since there’s less competition, and movers will likely be more affordable.
- Personal Schedule and Commitments
School is another important factor to consider when moving because you don’t want your children to skip it. Your work can also shape your moving date. Avoid moving during a busy schedule since balancing your career and relocating can be overwhelming.
Conclusion
Although it varies depending on your circumstances, fall and spring are the ideal times to move. They’re the off-seasons so that the costs can be more affordable.
However, you should consider weather conditions, your budget, and your schedule before selecting a moving date. That way, you can pick the most suitable time for your needs and embark on a smooth relocation journey!
