When is the Best Time to Move? Your Full Guide

You’ve spent weeks packing, organizing, and coordinating logistics, but now, as you stare at the towering stacks of boxes, you wonder - did I choose the right time to move? The answer isn't as simple as marking a date on the calendar. From cost fluctuations to weather conditions and moving company availability, the timing of your move can have a bigger impact than you might expect.

While most people focus on hiring the right movers or packing efficiently, choosing when to move is just as crucial. The right timing can mean lower costs, smoother logistics, and even an easier transition into your new home. Whether you're aiming for budget-friendliness, good weather, or minimal disruptions, this guide will help you determine when the best time to move is, based on your unique circumstances.

And if you need help with planning, our How to Plan Your Relocation article can help you out.

The Season Makes a Difference: Pros & Cons of Moving in Each Season

Timing your move isn’t just about picking a random date, it’s about understanding how seasonal demand, weather conditions, and market trends affect the moving process. Each season offers distinct advantages and challenges, so let’s break them down:

Moving in Summer: High Demand, High Cost

It’s no surprise that summer is the busiest time of year to move. School’s out, homes are selling, and schedules are more flexible. In fact, around 70% of moves happen between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

• Best for: Families with school-age children, job relocations that require a mid-year start.
• Challenges: Moving companies charge premium rates due to high demand, and availability can be limited. Plus, let’s face it, lifting heavy boxes in 90°F heat isn’t fun.

Moving in Fall: Lower Costs & Ideal Weather

Once summer’s peak moving season winds down, fall becomes one of the best times to relocate. Moving companies have more availability, rates drop, and the weather is mild which makes it easier to handle physically demanding tasks.

• Best for: Budget-conscious movers, those looking to buy a home at a better price.
• Challenges: Shorter daylight hours mean less time to move, and if you have kids in school, mid-semester moves can be tricky.

Moving in Winter: The Most Affordable Option

If saving money is your top priority, winter is hands-down the cheapest season to move. With demand at its lowest, moving companies often offer discounts and more flexible scheduling. However, the downside? Unpredictable weather.

• Best for: Those with flexible schedules, renters looking for deals, and anyone who doesn’t mind the cold.
• Challenges: Snow and ice increase the risk of delays. If you’re in a city like Boston or Chicago, be prepared for slick roads and potential last-minute rescheduling.

Looking to move on a budget? Check out our Budget-Friendly Moving Tips for College Students for smart ways to cut costs, without cutting corners.

Moving in Spring: Balanced Timing & Home-Selling Perks

Spring is the perfect middle ground between winter’s lower prices and summer’s convenience. Early spring, particularly March and April, offers mild weather, lower moving rates compared to summer, and a booming real estate market which is great for those buying or selling a home.

• Best for: Homebuyers, renters looking to beat the summer rush, those who want moderate weather.
• Challenges: Prices start rising as summer approaches, and April showers can make moving day messy.

If you're moving to NYC (aka joining our community!), check out our guide on The Best Time to Move to NYC for expert insights on choosing the right time to relocate.

Timing Tips: Best Month, Week, & Day to Move

Even beyond choosing the right season, the specific month, week, and time of day you move can impact everything from cost to convenience. Here’s how to get your moving date right for the best experience:

Best Month to Move: September - April

If you’re looking for lower prices and better flexibility, September through April is the best window to move. Since demand is lower, moving companies offer better deals, and you’re more likely to get your preferred time slot. Our local moving services can help you take advantage of off-season savings while ensuring a smooth transition.

Why it works: Fewer people move in the fall and winter, meaning less competition and lower costs.
What to avoid: If you live in a college town (e.g., Boston, Austin, or Ann Arbor), steer clear of late August and early September (if you can), when students flood the rental market and moving trucks become scarce.

Best Week to Move: Mid-Month, Mid-Week

Want to avoid peak moving chaos? Move in the middle of the month. Most leases start at the beginning or end of the month, which means moving companies are booked solid during those times.

Why it works: Tuesday through Thursday moves are often cheaper and less rushed than weekend moves.
What to avoid: First and last weekends of the month. This is when movers are in highest demand, and rates can spike.

Best Time of Day to Move: Early Morning (7-8 AM)

If you’ve ever packed and moved in blazing summer heat, you know why early mornings are best. Starting at 7-8 AM has multiple benefits:

Why it works:

• Cooler temperatures make physical labor easier.
• You maximize daylight hours for unpacking and organizing.
• Movers are fresh and more efficient early in the day.

What to avoid: Late afternoon moves can run into evening traffic, delay unloading, and leave you unpacking well past midnight.

If you're moving valuable or delicate items, consider our packing services to ensure everything is securely packed and ready to go.

Practical Considerations Before Choosing Your Moving Date

Even with the best season, month, and time of day in mind, your personal schedule and lifestyle should guide your final decision. Here’s how to match your move to your needs:

Work & Job Flexibility

Weekday moves are often cheaper and less chaotic, but can you take the time off? Before picking a date, check if your employer offers a moving day benefit. Some companies provide paid time off specifically for relocations. If not, consider scheduling your move before a weekend so you have extra time to settle in.

School Calendars & Family Schedules

If you have kids in school, the timing of your move matters.

Summer moves: Popular because they avoid school disruptions, but expect higher moving costs.
Winter break moves: Great for local relocations since students won’t miss school, but weather can be tricky.
Spring/fall moves: A balance between mild weather and lower costs, but may require mid-year school transitions.

What to avoid: Moving during final exams or major school events can add unnecessary stress to the entire family.

Weather & Seasonal Conditions

Saving money by moving in winter sounds great, until you’re carrying furniture over icy sidewalks. While off-season moves are budget-friendly, always consider your local climate:

Cold-weather states: Snow, ice, and freezing temps make winter moves tough. Consider spring or fall for better conditions.
Hot climates: If you’re in Arizona, Texas, or Florida, summer moves can be brutally hot. Early mornings or cooler months are better.
Rain-prone areas: Moving during the rainy season (e.g., Pacific Northwest, Southeast U.S.)? Have waterproof packing materials ready.

Pro Tip: Always check the extended weather forecast before your move and have a backup plan for extreme conditions.

Quick FAQ: Smart Moving Timing Tips

How far in advance should I book movers during peak season?

• Summer (May–September): Book 8–12 weeks ahead to secure your preferred date. Movers fill up fast during this time.
• Off-Peak (October–April): You can often book 4–6 weeks in advance, with more availability and better pricing.
• Last-Minute Moves: Some movers have cancellations, so call around if you're in a pinch—but expect to pay extra.

Can I save money by moving at night?

Yes, but proceed with caution. Some companies offer discounts for late-night moves, especially in big cities. But reduced visibility, tired movers, and building restrictions (e.g., noise ordinances, elevator access) can make night moves tricky.

Is it worth paying peak season rates for better weather?

If you have kids in school, valuable furniture, or concerns about winter road conditions, summer’s higher cost might be worth the convenience. But if your schedule is flexible, spring and fall moves offer the best balance of price and weather.

The Bottom Line: Choosing the Right Time for YOU

After breaking down the best seasons, months, weeks, and days to move, here’s the truth: the best time to relocate is whenever it works for your life, budget, and schedule.

Instead of chasing the "perfect" date, focus on:

1. Your budget - Can you take advantage of off-peak rates, or do you need a summer move?
2. Weather conditions - Is extreme heat or icy weather a concern in your area?
3. Your family’s needs - Will your kids need a school break, or do you have work flexibility?
4. Real estate factors - Will moving in a slower market help you negotiate a better home price?

Wondering how relocation might impact your happiness? Our article on Are People Happier After Relocating explores how a move can be a fresh start in more ways than one.

Your Moving Success Formula:

Smart timing + strong organization + the right moving team = a smooth, stress-free relocation.

Whether you're braving a winter move or tackling the summer rush, making informed decisions will set you up for success.

Need help choosing your moving date? Our team can provide expert guidance and handle the logistics to ensure a seamless transition.

Not sure if hiring movers is worth it? Our guide on Why You Should Hire a Professional Relocation Company breaks down the benefits of working with experts for a stress-free move.

But if you’re ready to take action - Contact us today!