A Helpful Guide to Timing Your Move

Published: July 15, 2024

Moving to a new home is an exciting yet often stressful experience. One of the most crucial aspects of a smooth relocation is timing. Knowing when to start planning, when to pack, and when to schedule your move can make a significant difference in reducing stress and ensuring a successful transition. Here’s a helpful guide to help you time your move perfectly.

Start Planning Early

The earlier you start planning, the better. Ideally, begin planning at least two to three months before your moving date. This gives you ample time to organize your belongings, schedule moving services, and handle any unexpected issues that may arise. Key steps include creating a moving checklist to outline all the tasks you need to complete before moving day and budgeting your move to determine how much you can spend on packing supplies, moving services, and any other expenses.

Choose the Best Time of the Year

The time of year you choose to move can significantly impact the cost and ease of your move. Peak season, from May to September, offers ideal weather conditions and the convenience of kids being out of school but comes with higher costs and limited availability of moving services. Off-peak season, from October to April, provides lower costs and more availability of moving services, though it brings the potential for bad weather and school disruptions for children.

Optimal Days of the Week

Mid-week moves, typically from Tuesday to Thursday, are generally less expensive and less hectic compared to moving on the weekend, which are from Friday to Monday. Moving services are often at lower rates during weekdays due to lower demand. If possible, take a few days off work to handle the move during the week and avoid moving during holidays, as it can be more stressful and expensive.

Best Time of the Month

The beginning and end of the month are typically busier for moving services. If your schedule allows, aim for the middle of the month to get better rates and availability. Coordinate moving with your lease end date if you’re renting, and avoid the first and last week of the month, which are often more expensive and busy.

Preparing for the Move

Preparation is key to a successful move. Eight weeks before moving, start decluttering by going through your belongings and deciding what to keep, donate, or discard. Begin packing items you use less frequently, such as seasonal clothing and decor, and notify important parties like your utility companies, bank, and other essential services of your move. Four weeks before the move, confirm your moving date with your moving services, continue packing non-essential items and labeling boxes by room, and arrange for time off work around the moving date. Two weeks before moving, pack a suitcase with essentials for the first few days in your new home, reconfirm details with your moving services and moving team, and prepare appliances by defrosting the fridge and disconnecting the washer and dryer if applicable.

Moving Week

The week leading up to your move is crucial. Three days before moving, ensure all boxes are packed and labeled, double-check all moving arrangements, and settle any outstanding bills while closing local accounts. On moving day, stay organized by keeping important documents and valuables with you, be present to direct your moving team and answer any questions, and do a final walkthrough of your old home.

Post-Move Tips

Once you’ve moved into your new home, there are a few more steps to ensure a smooth transition. Start by unpacking essential items and gradually unpacking room by room. Notify the post office, banks, and other important contacts of your new address and take some time to explore your new neighborhood and settle in.

Timing your move effectively can make a world of difference in reducing stress and ensuring a smooth transition. By planning early, choosing the best time of year, and following a structured timeline, you can make the moving process a positive and efficient experience. Remember, the key to a successful move is staying organized and flexible, allowing you to adapt to any challenges that come your way. Happy moving!

For help with your move, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Northern NJ or call us today at (973) 554-3431.