Summer moving requires more planning than relocating during other seasons. That’s because summer is the peak moving season, and it tends to create safety and comfort issues when heat is involved.
Luckily, Wheaton has been making both local and long-distance moves simple and stress-free for decades, no matter the weather. We have the knowledge and experience to help beat the heat—read on for our best tips for moving in the summer.
Why Summer Is the Busiest Moving Season
There are many reasons why summer is the peak moving season. The summer school break is a popular time for families to relocate, minimizing disruptions when moving with kids. The longer days mean more daylight, maximizing your available moving hours. And leases tend to turn over in the summertime, so renters are busy moving into their next homes.
On the downside, summer relocations offer plenty of challenges. The heat makes physical exertion uncomfortable, difficult and sometimes even dangerous. And since everyone else is also moving in the summer, you may have difficulty securing a moving van on your desired moving date—and fees may be higher, too.
Summer Moving Tips
Book Early: Schedule Your Move in Advance
To secure your spot, reserve your moving company or truck rental 6 weeks or more before your move. We may be biased, but we highly recommend opting for a moving company over a DIY move. Professional movers are highly trained and experienced in moving even the heaviest or most awkward items, saving you stress and lots of sweat.
Request a free estimate to get in touch with your local Wheaton agent and see how we can help you secure your spot.
Beat the Heat: Time Your Move Smartly
The time of day you choose to move can greatly impact your summer moving experience. Plan to get most of the manual labor out of the way in the early morning or evening to avoid heat exhaustion and hot moving trucks. As a bonus, you may beat traffic this way, too.
Stay Cool and Hydrated
Accessories like cooling towels and portable fans can go a long way towards keeping your family and movers cool. Stock up on plenty of bottled water, and keep it on hand to grab whenever it’s needed.
Protect Heat-Sensitive Items
Some items are more sensitive to the heat or sun than others, including candles, electronics, food and medications. Use insulated containers or coolers to protect them whenever possible, or ask your Wheaton agent for tips and specialty supplies to help keep items safe.
Plan for Kids and Pets
Keep pets and kids safe and out of harm’s way on moving day. If you’re relocating locally, plan for daycare or pet boarding, or create a “comfort zone” in your home where they’ll be out of the way and taken care of. If you’re moving long-distance, plan for ways to keep your child or pet entertained with snacks, treats and fun diversions.
Avoid Last-Minute Surprises
Create a checklist for packing, loading and communication with movers to ensure your summer move goes off without a hitch. Wheaton has created a handy moving checklist using our decades of experience, which you can download and print off.
Confirm logistics with your moving company a few days before your move to ensure the entire team is on the same page and ready to get started.
Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is a real concern when moving during the summer. Watch out for its signs, including heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headache, muscle cramps and cool, clammy skin.
If you notice any of these signs in yourself, your family or a mover, determine whether first aid is sufficient or medical attention is needed. Generally, heat exhaustion can be treated by stopping all activity, moving to a cooler location and drinking water or a sports drink. If it’s not treated properly, it could escalate to heatstroke, which is when medical care should be sought.
Create a Stress-Free Moving Day Plan
Save yourself hassle on your moving day by planning it out well in advance. Pack an essentials bag with all your must-have items in one accessible location. Don’t forget to keep snacks, water and those cooling accessories somewhere they’re easy to grab.
Finally, don’t forget to prepare your mental state, too! Try calming breathing techniques, keep a flexible mindset and stay centered to cut down on stress throughout the day. Monitor your stress levels and take breaks when you feel overwhelmed or physically overheated.
Make Your Summer Move Simple With Wheaton
Summer relocations don’t have to be difficult—careful planning and preparation will help it go smoothly. But for an even easier experience, trust Wheaton with your move. Our professional movers have the training and experience to move your items with care and safety, no matter the weather.
Get your free Wheaton estimate and take the stress out of your summer move!
