Moving during the summer has its perks—longer days, low chances of rain, and a bit more time to settle into your new space without having to worry about school rush. However, it can get hot, and it does take time to plan and make the most out of your summer move. Here are some practical tips to help you stay on top of things.
Start Early or Wait Until Late
The heat during the summer can be brutal; no one wants to be packing boxes when its boiling hot outside. Have the intention of starting your move early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the heat is not at its peak. The cooler hours will allow you to make the packing process much smoother and less exhausting for you.
Stay Hydrated (and Keep Snacks Handy)
This step is important, but you would be surprised at how easy it is to forget. Keep water bottles close by—not packed in a box—and make sure everyone, including the movers, take regular breaks to keep hydrated. You can also consider having some easy, refreshing snacks like fruits and small snacks. It makes a big difference.
Dress Right
Make sure to wear breathable clothing instead of heavy clothing materials. Comfortable shoes are important as they avoid any injury to the foot. It is important to constantly apply sunscreen to protect from the high UV rays. Summer moving is all about staying comfortable—for you and for anyone helping out.
Protect Heat-Sensitive Items
Some items should not be exposed to heat. Electronics, candles, and certain food items can get damaged when left in a hot truck for a long time. Plan to move these items in a cooler car or have them packed with some cooling elements to keep them from overheating.
Secure Parking Space
Summer is a busy time for moving, and good parking can be a bit competitive. Make sure you’ve got a plan for where the truck will park—the closer to your door, the better. If you’re in a busy neighbourhood, arrange this in advance to save headaches on moving days.
Make Use of Fans
Got a fan or two handy? Place them strategically around the house to keep everyone comfortable and cool as they work. It’s not just about staying cool; it’ll keep the air circulating, which makes it a lot less stifling when you’re constantly moving around.
Consider Your Plants
If you’ve got plants, they can be especially vulnerable in summer heat. Transport them in your car if possible, and give them a bit of extra water before the trip. This will help keep your plants alive and safe during your moving process.
Have a Backup Plan for Kids and Pets
Kids and pets often do best when they’re kept away from the chaos. A summer move can mean restless kids and overheated pets, so try to arrange for them to stay with a friend or family member during the move; it will help you to keep the process much quicker, less stressful and smoother for you it also keeps them safe
Don’t Forget to Plan Utilities
Summer is peak time for air conditioning, so make sure your utilities are ready to go the moment you step into your new home. Getting there and realizing the power isn’t on? That’s a level of discomfort nobody needs, especially in the heat.
Pack Smart—Think Essentials
When you’re packing for a summer move, keep a separate essentials box with things you’ll need on hand immediately. Sunscreen, water bottles, phone chargers, and a change of clothes are all good picks. This will save you from opening a bunch of boxes just to find your toothbrush.
Don’t Rush—Plan Rest Time
Moving is a marathon, not a sprint. Factor in some rest breaks for yourself and anyone else helping out. Find a shady spot or a cool room to take five when needed. Not only will this keep you safer from heat exhaustion, but it also keeps everyone in a better mood.
Take Advantage of Longer Days
One of the best things about moving in the summer is the extra daylight. With more hours of sunlight, you can take your time unpacking or organizing things once you’ve arrived. Use this to your advantage to pace yourself and avoid unnecessary stress. Plus, more light means you can avoid rushing when it comes to setting up the essentials.
Use Proper Moving Supplies
In summer, quality moving supplies are essential. Sturdy boxes and packing materials can protect your items from both heat and humidity. Consider using plastic bins instead of cardboard for items that could be damaged by moisture. Bubble wrap and packing paper are also great for added protection, and make sure to tape boxes securely to avoid any surprises when you open them up.
Cool Down Your New Place Before Arrival
If you have access to your new home before the move, head over and get the air conditioning running or open windows to let in fresh air. It makes a world of difference to walk into a cool space after a day of moving. This simple step can help you and your movers stay comfortable while getting everything settled in.
Watch Out for Heat-Related Illness
Heat exhaustion is a real risk when moving in summer. Keep an eye out for signs like dizziness, heavy sweating, or nausea, both for yourself and others. If anyone starts feeling unwell, take a break in a cool spot and drink some water. It’s better to take a bit more time than to risk anyone’s health.
Keep Electronics Safe
If you’re moving any electronics, remember that extreme heat can damage them. Pack electronics in their original boxes if possible, and avoid leaving them in the moving truck for extended periods. Transporting them in your car where they can stay cool is ideal, especially for items like laptops, TVs, or gaming consoles.
Take Time to Clean and Declutter
Summer is also a good opportunity to declutter before you move. The fewer items you have to transport, the easier the process will be. Take the time to go through your belongings and decide what you really need. Donate, sell, or recycle items that no longer serve a purpose. Plus, having fewer boxes means less heavy lifting and a faster unpacking process.
Label Boxes Clearly
Labeling your boxes might seem basic, but in the hustle of a summer move, it’s easy to forget. Use bold markers to label each box with its contents and which room it’s headed to. This small step can make unpacking way less of a hassle and helps the movers know exactly where everything should go without needing to ask.
Plan for Ice Packs and Cold Towels
Consider packing a small cooler with ice packs and cold towels. These can be lifesavers when the temperature rises, offering a quick way to cool down. Just having a cold towel around your neck can help you feel refreshed and ready to keep going.
Have a Post-Move Plan
Once everything is at your new place, have a rough plan for settling in. Prioritize setting up essential rooms like the bedroom and bathroom first. After a long day of moving, having a place to sleep and a functioning bathroom is key to feeling comfortable. The rest can be tackled bit by bit over the next few days.
Summer moves come with their own set of challenges, but they can also be some of the best—the longer daylight hours mean more time to unpack and get settled. Plus, it’s an ideal time to explore your new neighbourhood once you’re all set up. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be off to a great start!
Planning a Move this Summer?
Vaz Power has been serving customers during the busy summer season for years. If you are planning a move soon and need a free consultation or help regarding planning and budgeting, please do not hesitate to talk to one of our friendly relocation consultants at 1300 875 197
