Summer is the most popular time of the year for Chicagoans to do their relocation. So if you have decided to move during peak moving season, here are a few things you should know.
When is peak moving season?
Summer is the peak moving season in Chicago and most parts of America. Did you know 70 percent of all U.S. moves take place between Memorial Day and Labor Day? Since May through September are the months when movers are in highest demand, it’s important to book a moving company in advance. In many cases, top Chicago moving companies are booked out for several months. So don’t wait until the last minute to hire local movers in Chicago: You may find yourself with limited options and restricted dates.
Why is summer the busiest moving season in Chicago?
There are many reasons why summer is the peak season for local moves in Chicago. Here are the most common reasons:
- Families with kids in school prefer to move over the summer, when school is out. Moving during the school year can interrupt a students’ academic progress and disrupt their after-school activities.
- Chicago in winter is known to be extremely cold and snowfall is a common feature. This can make moving during winter a very unpleasant experience.
- In many places, leases begin and end during the summer. This spurs movement, especially among renters in Chicago.
- Summertime is prime moving time on and around Chicago college campuses, where leases tend to line up with the academic calendar.
- All of this is why, as spring arrives, you suddenly see “For Sale” signs pop up around your neighborhood. Which in turn is why home sales around Chicago reach peak levels during the spring and early summer period.
Here are 10 top tips for moving during summer
- Pick a date and a mover ASAP
When it comes to moving during summer, those who hesitate are lost. Book your moving company as soon as you can, ensuring you get the date and the movers you want.
- Look for discounts
Summer is an expensive time to move in Chicago. High demand prompts moving companies to raise rates. Good news: Sometimes you can find discounts to offset rising costs.
- Move in the middle of the week or month
Because demand drops at midweek and mid-month, these are more affordable times to move. If you’re looking for the best rate, try these “off” times rather than a weekend at the end of one month or the beginning of another.
- Avoid holidays
Peak moving season includes several holidays – Memorial Day, July Fourth (Independence Day) and Labor Day – which are expensive times to move. Why? Limited availability of movers and heavy traffic on the roads can create delays. If you must move during summer, avoid holidays.
- Hire child care for moving day
Moving is hectic enough, especially during peak moving season, without adding active toddlers and wailing infants to the mix. Make the day easier by arranging
for a babysitter. Asking a family member, friend or sitter to mind the little ones during a move just may preserve your sanity.
- Travel light to cut costs
The equation is simple: The more things you move, the more your move costs. In general, more items equal a longer move, which equals a larger bill. One of the benefits of moving is it presents an opportunity to purge things you don’t need. Set aside some time before your move to sell, donate or throw out stuff you no longer need.
- Get ready for the drive
If you’re planning to move yourself, understand that you’re more likely to hit heavy traffic when moving during summer. Consider these preparation strategies: Servicing your vehicle before moving, test-driving the rental truck before taking it on the freeway, planning your route and watching for low bridges and overpasses. A little planning on the front end can avoid headaches down the road.
- Stay cool
Peak moving season is hot. Remember to pack a small cooler of bottled water and
snacks for your move. Cold washcloths can be life-savers during extreme heat. Wear light clothing and bring a portable fan.
- Keep electronic items cool
Electronics such as computers, tablets and gaming consoles shouldn’t be tossed into a box bound for the moving truck as they can be easily damaged in high temperatures. These items require temperature-controlled environments so make sure you pay attention to expensive-to-replace electronics and pack them accordingly. You could also turn on the air-con in the vehicle during the transit to help keep the environment cool.
- Hire a pet sitter
Moving with a pet can add an extra layer of anxiety to what is already a stressful exercise. There tends to be a lot of open doors on moving day and lots of distractions, so it is important to ensure that your dog or cat does not get loose. A good tip to help keep your pets safe at their new home is by arranging for a pet sitter to keep an eye on them for the day. Alternatively, you could set up a temporary playpen for your dog or a kennel for your cat with lots of water and toys to keep them occupied.
Are you planning to move during summer in Chicago?
Relocating during peak moving season is easier when you have professionals on hand to do the heavy lifting. Our team at Mighty Moving is ready to help you with your local move in Chicago. Get a free moving quote online or give us a call at 855-699-8999 to start planning your move!