It’s April 6th, and while the spring breeze feels great, there is a clock ticking in the background. If you’re planning a move in the next few months, you’re about to run headfirst into the "Summer Rush." From June through August, the world of relocation turns into a high-stakes game of musical chairs. If you haven’t secured your spot early, you might find yourself without a seat: or a truck.
At Get It Gone, we see it every year. Families wait until the kids are out of school, and suddenly, every professional mover in the city is booked solid for six weeks straight. But don't sweat it. We’ve put together this quick-start guide to help you navigate the local moving scene like a pro, ensuring your transition is as smooth as possible before the heat (and the demand) really cranks up.
Why the Summer Rush is a Big Deal
In the moving industry, summer is our "peak season." Roughly 60% to 70% of all moves happen between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Why? Because the weather is reliable, school is out, and it’s the most popular time to sell a home. This creates a massive bottleneck.
If you’re looking for movers during this window, you’re competing with thousands of other people. Booking at the last minute in July is a recipe for stress. By starting your preparations now, in April, you’re giving yourself a massive competitive advantage. You get to choose your dates, you get the best crews, and you don’t have to settle for a "truck-and-two-guys" operation that might not show up on moving day.
Step 1: Secure Your Date Now
The golden rule for summer moving is to book your mover as early as possible. We usually recommend reaching out at least 8 to 12 weeks in advance for summer dates. If you’re moving mid-week, you might have a bit more wiggle room, but if you’re eyeing a Friday or Saturday in late June, you need to act fast.
When you call around, don't just ask if they're available. Ask about their experience with local movers specifically. A local move has different logistical challenges than an interstate one: think narrow streets, tight parking, and apartment building rules. You want a team that knows your neighborhood inside and out.
Step 2: The Great Declutter
One of the biggest mistakes people make is moving stuff they don’t actually want. Every box you pack, tape, and carry is energy spent. Before you even buy your first roll of packing tape, go through every room in your house.
If you haven’t used it in a year, it probably shouldn't make the trip to the new place. This is the perfect time to look into junk removal and moving services. By clearing out the basement and the attic now, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what actually needs to be moved. Plus, a decluttered home is much easier for a mover to walk through when they come over to give you a hand with the planning.
Step 3: Get Your Inventory in Order
Once you’ve purged the junk, it’s time to take stock of what’s left. This is where most people trip up. They underestimate how many boxes they have or forget about the heavy treadmill in the basement.
Having a solid inventory list is crucial for a smooth day. It helps the movers bring the right equipment and the right size truck. If you aren't sure how to start, check out this guide on 7 mistakes you’re making with your moving inventory. Getting this right in April saves you a massive headache in June.
Step 4: Do Your Homework on the Moving Crew
Not all moving companies are created equal. Since you have the luxury of time right now, use it to vet your potential partners. Look for a mover that has a reputation for reliability and straightforward communication.
Before you sign anything, it’s smart to know what to look for. We’ve put together a list of 10 things you should know before you hire to help you weed out the amateurs. In the summer rush, many "pop-up" companies appear to take advantage of the high demand. Sticking with an established name ensures your belongings actually make it to the new house in one piece.
Step 5: Logistics and "Summer Proofing"
Moving in the summer heat is a different beast than moving in the cool spring air. You need to think about the logistics that are unique to the season:
- The Heat Factor: Plan to start your move as early as possible. A 7:00 AM start time might sound brutal, but it’s much better than carrying a dresser at 2:00 PM when it’s 95 degrees outside.
- Utility Switch: Make sure your electricity and AC are turned on at the new house the day before you arrive. There is nothing worse than moving into a home that has been baking in the sun all day with no air conditioning.
- Parking Permits: If you’re moving into a busy urban area, parking for a large moving truck can be a nightmare. Check with the city now to see if you need to reserve space or get a temporary permit.
- The Crew’s Wellbeing: Professional movers are pros, but they’re also human. Having a cooler of cold water or Gatorade ready for the team goes a long way when they’re working hard in the sun.
Step 6: Specialized Moving Needs
Are you moving a whole house or just a small apartment? Or maybe you're helping a family member downsize? Every move has a different flavor.
- If you’re moving from a large family home, you might need house movers who specialize in handling large furniture and delicate items.
- If you’re moving into a high-rise, look for apartment movers who are used to navigating freight elevators and strict loading dock schedules.
- For those helping an older relative, senior moves 101 is a great resource for managing the emotional and physical aspects of a downsize.
Be the Early Bird
The "Early Bird gets the Worm" saying has never been more true than in the moving industry. By taking care of these steps in April, you are setting yourself up for a stress-free summer. You won't be the person frantically calling movers on a Tuesday morning because your original company ghosted you. You’ll be the one sitting on your new porch with a cold drink, watching the sunset, while the rest of the world is still struggling with bubble wrap.
If you’re ready to get a head start, don't wait. Whether you need furniture movers for a few heavy pieces or a full-service team to handle the whole job, the time to reach out is now.
Final Quick Checklist:
- Declutter: Toss, donate, or sell.
- Research: Find a reliable mover with good local reviews.
- Inventory: List everything so there are no surprises.
- Book: Secure your dates before the end of April.
- Plan: Think about the heat, the AC, and the parking.
Moving doesn't have to be a nightmare. It’s just about being prepared. So, take a look around your living room, grab a notepad, and let’s get it gone!