Moving can be an exciting and nerve-wracking time. While you’re going to a new home with new opportunities, it’s also overwhelming to get all of your stuff packed up and moved. It’s no wonder why so many people get movers to take care of the job for them. If it’s workable within your budget, it’s definitely worth considering, since it can make the move go much smoother. If you do decide to hire movers though, make sure to get a price quote ahead of time so you know what to expect. Whether you’re moving with the help of your loved ones or hiring movers, we have some additional tips to help things go better in the heat of summer.
Summer can be a popular time to move. This time is generally easier for families who have kids since they don’t have to move school districts during the time. Some people may even have jobs that allow them a little more freedom in the summer. So, we can see why many people opt to move this season. However, do be aware there are a few holidays that fall over the summer, and if you move over the holiday, the movers could be pricier. The other thing to consider is the heat. You will want to take a few extra measures to ensure a move that goes off without a hitch.
Let’s Talk About That Heat
There are a few things you can do to make the move less miserable in that hot summer sun. First, if you can, get the AC going in your new place. If you’re going to wait until the day of, bring a fan or two with you so you can get them going ASAP when you arrive. Second, think about the time of day you’ll be moving. If you do it in the early AM, it should avoid the blasting afternoon heat. Next, consider what type of things can help keep you and/or your movers cool and refreshed throughout the move. Bring some cold bottles of water and sports drinks along. You may even consider bringing portable fans with misters or cold, wet towels. And don’t forget to apply the sunblock!
Think About Your Moving Day Outfit
No matter what the temperature is outside, you’ll want to wear the right shoes. Flip flops aren’t safe or practical moving day attire. But a lightweight, summery outfit can help you stay cool during the move. Although, we’d suggest not wearing a dress, since it’s not the best attire when you’re trying to lift and move boxes around. For one thing, dresses can easily get caught on things.
Make a Plan for Your Kids and Pets
You should have a plan for your kids and pets. You want to make sure that your pets and kids don’t get too hot. Make sure that everyone is cool enough and getting enough hydration. If your kids and pets will be with you, don’t let them hang out in the sun too long. Make sure that they find some shade or go indoors where there’s AC or a fan available. You can also consider asking a loved one to take care of your kids or pets during the move.
Take Special Care of Anything That is Sensitive to Heat
You may have certain items in your house that are more sensitive to heat. If so, take extra care with these things. It could be your records, electronics, candles, or even your houseplants. Make sure that you mark any boxes that have sensitive items in them and keep them cool enough until you can get them into your new home.
Plan Ahead
This can’t be said too often. Do as much planning as you can in advance. This is true no matter what season you’re moving in. If you’re hiring movers, line that up a couple of months in advance if you can. If you’re in charge of handling packing, then get your boxes packing paper, and bubble wrap weeks before. Start packing up the items you don’t use as often, then continue to pack as the days get closer. Go through your items weeks in advance so you can get rid of anything you don’t want to pack up. When packing up, make things easier for you by marking the boxes of what’s inside and labeling any loose cables so you know what they go to.
Remember to think about the actual moving day too. There are items you’ll need right away, those should go into boxes that say “open ASAP” or something along those lines. These will be items like your toiletries, hand towels, daily kitchen supplies, TP, etc. Also, make yourself an overnight bag with a couple of outfits so you have a few things already picked out to hold you over for the next few days as you unpack. In addition, remember to put stuff like your cellphone chargers and anything else you’ll want to have readily available in there. It’s also a good idea to keep sensitive documents on you until you can get them filed at your new place.
These are just a few tips to help you make your move go better. We know it’s a lot of work, but it will be worth it once you get unpacked and settled into your new place.
