Written by: Madeline Blake
Date:

Moving an entire household can be a complex task. It needs to be planned, sometimes months in advance. And so, it’s handy to know when is the peak moving season. That way, you can understand what to expect and when it will be the hardest time to find quality movers. That is especially important when moving on short notice. So, here are some of the busiest times. And some tips on what you can do to find movers during peak season. 

Why is the peak moving season so important?

There are many reasons why you would want to know when the peak moving season is. The month or day of your move can impact many aspects of it, from the availability of moving companies to their prices. That is the most evident when moving long distance as those kinds of moves need to be scheduled in advance. And are not always as straightforward as local relocations. Movers will often need more than a day to handle your entire relocation, which can be quite difficult in peak season. 

summer is the peak moving season

The peak moving season is from April until September

Summer months are considered the peak moving season

According to some estimates, around 40 million people move each year in the United States. Which makes for a lot of busy days for moving companies. About 80% of those people move between April and September. Due to such a high demand for what amounts to less than half a year, it’s sometimes difficult to find movers. This period is definitely the peak moving season. And if you, like most other people, plan on moving in that period, make sure you plan accordingly. Especially if you are moving a business. As peak season can significantly disrupt your moving schedule. It can cause even more downtime for your business.

How does peak moving season affect you

There are many different ways in which peak moving season can affect your relocation. From how easy or difficult it will be to find quality moving companies, even when moving locally. To how much all of that is going to cost you. But, there are even more, both negative and positive aspects of moving during the peak moving season. From the increase in moving scams to favorable weather that makes relocation easier. 

moving during peak moving season

There are many ways in which peak moving season can affect your relocation

Moving prices are usually higher during peak moving season

Just like with almost anything else – higher demand usually means a higher price. And it’s the same with moving companies. The sheer amount of work that they have during summer means that they can afford to ask more for their services. And you will usually be willing to pay more to move during nice weather. If you are moving for work and can claim moving expenses, then it’s no big deal. But, if you are moving out of your own budget, then this can make or break it. So, make sure you have enough money in your budget. And do your research before committing. 

It’s much harder to find movers during peak moving season

Once you know that you will be moving, it’s time to start looking for moving companies. And it’s sometimes difficult to find quality movers even when it’s not peak moving season. So, it’s that much harder to find an available date during the summer months. Even for a simple local relocation. So, it’s essential to book movers in advance. And grab your date before someone else does. Otherwise, you might end up having to move on your own. Or even worse, with a shady moving company. 

Moving scams are more prevalent when there’s high demand

Even though moving scams are not as frequent as many people believe, they still exist. And it’s important to stay vigilant. Even more so during peak moving season. As it becomes more difficult to find movers, you will start to see more and more shady moving companies. Those can be your local “entrepreneurs” trying to make some quick cash. Or even outright scammers who will empty your moving budget. Sometimes even without delivering on their promises. So, to protect yourself, make sure that you only hire verified movers. Check if they are licensed and registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. And make sure to keep your both eyes wide open. Check their website, visit their offices, and make sure to read the moving contract twice. 

How to successfully move during peak season?

There’s a good reason why 80% of people choose to move during the peak moving season. The weather is nice. And it’s usually holiday season. So, there are plenty of off days that can be used. But, if you want to find quality movers without a hassle, it’s wise to start checking things off your moving checklist as soon as possible. The more time you have, the easier it will be to find and book movers. And you won’t have to worry about finding a date.

book movers early in peak season

It’s essential to book a moving date as early as possible

Book movers early

As we already said, it’s best to book your moving date as early as possible. You should start browsing moving companies as soon as you know that you will be moving. Don’t feel awkward booking your moving date a couple of months in advance. It’s the best way to grab a good date before it’s gone.

Know what to look out for

If you are unable to book your moving date a couple of months in advance, you should know what to look for. And what to look out for. It doesn’t matter if you are moving on short notice or just forgot to book a date. The weekends are, obviously, the busiest days. Even when it’s not peak season. So, it’s doubtful that you will find an available weekend during peak moving season. So, focus your attention on workdays. They will still be mostly booked. But you’ll have a much better chance of finding an opening.

The beginning and end of the month are also quite busy. And morning slots are the most sought for. So, if you can, try and look for an afternoon slot in the middle of the month. Also, avoid days before and after Memorial Day Weekend, as they are some of the busiest days for movers. But, days after Labour Day are usually a little less busy. 

days to book during peak moving season

Workdays are usually less crowded during the peak season

Conclusion

Peak moving season is between the months of April and September. They are both the busiest and best suited for moving. So, make sure to book your movers in advance if you can. If not, try and look for afternoon slots during the middle of the month. Avoid weekends as workdays see a little fewer people moving.