When Is the Best Time of Year to Move?

Both local and long distance moves can be stressful, but there are certain times of the year, month and week that are better to move into your new home. Regardless of whether you hire movers or are doing the move yourself, moving companies and rental truck agencies typically charge lower rates and have more resources available during these times.

Best Months to Move

The best months to move are November and December. This is when moving companies are the slowest, as kids are in school and most people don't want to move during the holidays. Avoid the summer months, as those are the most expensive times to move.

Plan your move to take place mid-month in order to get the lowest prices. The beginning and end of month are typically the busiest times for movers, as many leases are up at the beginnings of months.

Best Days to Move

The best days of the week to move are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Most people plan their moves for the weekend, so most moving companies will likely have the fewest reservations during the week. You could also get a better price by avoiding a weekend move.

While these are general tips for moving, there are other special considerations to be made for when to plan your move, including children, weather and holidays.

Best Times to Move if you Have Children

Most believe that the best time to move if you have children is in the summer, when they are out of school and can help. Also, with all the commotion going on, you won't have to worry about picking them up from school and helping them with homework. Moving in the summer also gives them time to adjust to their new home and neighborhood before they begin at their new school.

However, some believe that moving during the middle of the school year is the best time. The thought is teachers will be able to give your children more attention than they would at the beginning of the school year. Also, your children might be able to meet new friends more easily than they would if you moved in the summer. Of course, each child is different and only you know what is best for yours.

Best Seasons to Move Based on Weather

Depending on where you live and where you are moving to, weather might play a big part in deciding when you should move. While the weather can be unpredictable, there are certain seasons in parts of the country that are the best time to move. Spring and fall are typically the best seasons to move, as summer can be extreme in some parts of the country, while winter can be extreme in other parts. However, summer is the most expensive time to move.

Best Times to Move Based on Holidays

Consider holidays and how much traffic will be on the road when planning your move. During most holidays, there is more traffic than during other parts of the year. This could cause some major headaches. Also, if you are moving to an area where you do not know anyone, you might want to avoid moving right before major holidays. Moving at other times will give you time to meet new people and build a feeling of community for holiday celebrations.

While it is best to move during these times, sometimes that is not a possibility. If your move date is flexible, keep these suggestions in mind when planning your move.