Moving is an exciting time, but it can also be expensive. If you want to save money on your relocation, timing is everything. Whether you're moving down the street or across the country, there are ways to make the process more affordable.
In this guide, we'll uncover the best times to move to help you make budget-friendly decisions.
Best Season for Moving
The time of year you choose for your move can have a big impact on your budget. Demand for movers fluctuates throughout the year, leading to higher prices during peak season and potential savings in the off-season. Let's break down the advantages and disadvantages of each:
Peak Moving Season (May-August)
The summer months, particularly between Memorial Day and Labor Day, mark the busiest time of year for movers. Why the rush? Several factors contribute to this peak moving season:
- Family-Friendly: School's out, minimizing disruption for kids and making it easier for families to get settled before the new academic year.
- Good Weather: Generally, you can count on warmer temperatures and longer days, ideal for the physical work of moving.
- College Factor: Students moving in and out of dorms and apartments add to the overall demand.
But, peak season's popularity comes at a price. Expect higher moving costs and less flexibility in finding movers with availability on your preferred dates. If your schedule allows, opting for an off-season move can save you significant money and give you more flexibility with movers.
Off-Peak Moving Season (September – April)
Think of fall, winter, and early spring as the bargain-hunting months for moving services. You're likely to benefit from:
- Budget-Friendly Rates: Movers often slash prices to attract business during the slower season. This is your chance to save significantly!
- Flexible Scheduling: It'll be easier to book your move on the exact day and time you want, without competing with as many other customers.
- Greater Mover Choice: You'll have a bigger pool of moving companies to choose from, increasing your chances of finding the perfect fit for your needs.
January and February stand out as THE cheapest months to move. Research suggests you could save up to 30% compared to summer rates.
However, it's important to consider the potential downsides of moving during the off-season:
- Weather Challenges: Depending on your location, be prepared for the possibility of rain, snow, or ice if you're moving during the fall or winter months. These conditions can make loading and unloading more difficult, create safety hazards, and potentially cause delays in your moving schedule.
- Holiday Season Considerations: Moving during the holidays, especially from Thanksgiving through New Year's, can be hectic and pricier. Moving companies might be in higher demand, leading to increased rates and less availability. Factor in potential scheduling conflicts with travel plans and family gatherings.
Best Month for Moving
While seasons set the overall tone for moving costs, specific months hold the key to maximizing your savings. Let's break down the cost patterns:
- Most Affordable Months (January – March & September – November): Take advantage of the off-season! These months offer the best combination of low prices and decent weather in many locations. You'll find movers more readily available and open to negotiating rates.
- Mid-Range Months (April & May): Demand gradually increases as better weather arrives and the school year winds down. Expect slightly increased prices, but still with decent mover availability.
- Peak Months (June-August): Summer is the most popular time to move, but it's also the most expensive. If you must move during the summertime, plan well ahead! Book your moving services early to secure availability and potentially negotiate a better rate.
Did You Know? A survey by the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) revealed that nearly 50% of all household moves occur during summer (June, July, August). In contrast, the winter months (December, January, February) see only about 10% of moves.
Best Time of the Month for Moving
Now that we've touched on the cheapest time of year to move, what about the time of the month that's the cheapest? Believe it or not, you should also factor in the time of the month that you move as the middle of the month is usually the cheapest option. This is due to the fact that the majority of people execute moves at the beginning and end of the month, meaning moving companies will be particularly busy during those times. If you're able to execute your move toward the middle of the month, such as during the second or third week, the overall demand for moving services will be lower.
Best Day of the Week for Moving
Don't forget to factor in the day of the week that you move, if possible. While it's tempting to schedule your move on a Friday or a Saturday when it's easy to step away from work, you might end up paying more this route.
Instead, consider the advantages of scheduling your move mid-week (Monday through Thursday). Moving companies tend to be less busy during these days, which can translate to lower rates, more flexibility, and a wider selection of available movers.
Additionally, you might even encounter less traffic congestion, making the physical act of moving a smoother experience. Think of moving on a weekday as a smart way to potentially save money and streamline the moving process.
Best Time of the Day for Moving
Beyond the day itself, the specific time you start your move can further influence cost. While most folks opt for mornings or early afternoons, there are advantages to going even earlier – think 8 am to 10 am! Here's why:
- Cooler Temperatures: Especially crucial during summer, an early start means you and your movers tackle the physical labor of moving in milder weather, making the process more comfortable for everyone.
- Productivity Boost: Getting your move underway early grants you more daylight hours to unload, unpack, and begin settling into your new place. This can minimize the feeling of being rushed at the end of a long moving day.
- Less Traffic: Early mornings generally mean less congestion on the roads. This translates to smoother transportation of your belongings and potentially a faster – and therefore potentially cheaper – move overall.
Alternative Option: While early mornings are typically the most budget-friendly, some moving companies may offer discounts for evening or late-night slots due to lower demand. If your schedule doesn't allow for an early start, it's worth inquiring about these potential savings.
Other Considerations When You Planning a Move
While finding the perfect time to move is important for minimizing costs, there are other crucial aspects to plan for.
- Weather: If you haven’t already factored in weather to your move, make sure to consider it! This is especially true if you live in a cold climate — you likely won’t want to move in the dead of winter.
- Work Schedule: If you are in the middle of a particularly busy season at work, it could be worth the additional money to move on a weekend.
- Family Concerns: School-aged children might not be able to step away from school during certain points in the year. In this case, it could make sense to move in the summer.
- Distance: The distance of your move can greatly impact your overall costs. Long-distance moves generally require more resources, time, and planning, resulting in higher expenses compared to local moves that have lower prices.
- Size of Your Home: The size of your current home and the amount of belongings you need to move will significantly affect your moving costs. Larger homes, like 3-bedroom houses, and more possessions will require more time, labor, and resources to relocate than moving a 2-bedroom apartment.
- Additional Services: If you require additional moving services, such as packing and unpacking or storage solutions, these will add to your overall moving expenses. Consider whether these services are necessary for your specific situation and budget accordingly.
Choose Alliance Moving & Storage – Your Partner for a Smart, Stress-Free Move
Finding the cheapest time to move is a great way to control relocation costs. By carefully considering the season, month, day, and even the time of day, you'll empower yourself to make budget-savvy decisions.
At Alliance Moving and Storage, we understand the challenges of moving. That's why we combine affordable pricing with reliable service to ensure a smooth transition to your new home. Whether your move is across town or across the country, we're committed to making your relocation as seamless and cost-effective as possible.
Contact us today for a free moving quote and discover why Alliance Moving and Storage is the trusted choice for budget-conscious movers.
