Summer Move Insights: Essential Advice

Published: July 15, 2024

A summer move can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you’re relocating to a new city, upgrading to a larger home, or downsizing, navigating a move in the heat requires careful planning and preparation. Here are eight essential tips and insights to help you make your summer move as smooth as possible.

1. Plan Ahead for Your Summer Move

One of the most crucial aspects of a successful summer move is planning ahead. Start planning at least 6-8 weeks before your moving date. Create a checklist of tasks such as packing, changing your address, scheduling moving services, and notifying utilities. Planning early gives you time to handle unexpected issues and reduces last-minute stress.

2. Beat the Heat

Summer moves often mean dealing with hot weather, so it’s essential to stay cool and hydrated. Schedule your moving activities early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the hottest part of the day. Provide plenty of water and snacks for yourself and your moving team. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, and consider using cooling towels or fans to stay comfortable.

3. Declutter Before You Pack

Summer is an excellent time to declutter and downsize your belongings before the move. Sort through your items and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. A lighter load means less packing, transporting, and unpacking. Selling unwanted items can help offset moving costs.

4. Stay Organized

Organization is key to a smooth move. Use a color-coded labeling system for boxes based on rooms or contents. Keep important documents, such as moving contracts, leases, and contact information, in a designated folder or binder. Create a moving inventory list to track your belongings and ensure nothing gets lost or left behind.

5. Prepare Your New Home

Before moving day, make sure your new home is move-in ready. Arrange for utilities to be turned on, especially electricity and water before you arrive. Clean key areas such as bathrooms, the kitchen, and bedrooms so that you can settle in comfortably upon arrival. If possible, visit your new home beforehand to familiarize yourself with the layout and plan where furniture and boxes will go.

6. Notify Important Parties

Don’t forget to update your address with important parties and organizations. Notify your bank, employer, subscriptions, and any service providers (such as internet or cable companies) of your upcoming move. Forward your mail through the postal service and update your address on official documents and accounts.

7. Take Care of Yourself and Your Family

Moving is physically and emotionally demanding, especially in the summer heat. Take breaks as needed, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. If you have young children or pets, arrange for their care during the move to reduce stress for everyone involved. Consider hiring a babysitter or pet sitter on moving day to ensure your children and pets are safe and well-cared for while you focus on managing the logistics.

8. Celebrate Your New Beginning

Once you’ve successfully moved into your new home, take time to celebrate and unwind. Treat yourself to a meal at a local restaurant, explore your new neighborhood, or simply relax and enjoy your new surroundings. Moving is a significant milestone, and celebrating your accomplishment can help you transition smoothly into this new chapter of your life.

Moving during the summer can be a rewarding experience with the right preparation and mindset. By following these eight essential tips and insights, you can navigate your summer move with confidence and ensure a seamless transition to your new home. Happy moving!

For more information and help with the summer move, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Los Angeles or call (323) 430-9060 today.