When is the best time to move house? How to reduce costs and stress

Moving house can be both exciting yet stressful. However, did you know that by giving a bit of thought about when exactly when you move could significantly reduce the cost… and also minimise the chances of anything going wrong?

While it might seem like any day or month will do, certain days and seasons are better than others. In this blog, we’ll explore the best times to move house, including why some days of the week are more advantageous and why summer, despite its popularity, might not be the best time for everyone.

Best day of the week?

When planning your move, the day of the week you choose can influence the cost, availability of removal services, and your stress levels! Let’s break down the best and worst days to move.

Avoid moving on Fridays

While many people think moving on a Friday is ideal, it actually comes with several drawbacks:

• Higher demand: Fridays are the most popular moving day, meaning that solicitors and banks are busy and removal companies are in very high demand. This can lead to limited availability and reduces the chance of you getting your preferred removal company.
• Time constraints: If there are any delays or issues during your move, you might not have enough time to resolve them before the weekend. Banks and utility companies may also close early, complicating last-minute tasks.
• Stressful weekends: Whilst it is tempting to want the weekend to unpack, it can create pressure to get everything done by Monday and lead to tension and frustration. Let’s be honest, who finishes unpacking in two days anyway?

Optimal days: mid-week moves

For a smoother and more cost-effective move, consider relocating mid-week:

• Tuesdays and Wednesdays: These days tend to be less busy for removal companies, leading to more flexible scheduling. Moving mid-week also gives you a few days to unpack and address any issues before the weekend.
• Mondays and Thursdays: While not as ideal as mid-week, these days are still better than Fridays. Mondays offer the advantage of having the entire week ahead to handle any complications, while Thursdays allow for a relaxed weekend to unpack.

Best months of the year to move

The time of year you choose to move can significantly impact your experience. Each season comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s explore the best and worst months to plan your relocation.

Summer: popular but costly

Summer is the peak season for moving, and for several reasons:

• School holidays: Families with children often move during the summer to avoid disrupting the school year. This makes it easier for kids to transition to a new school without mid-year interruptions.
• Weather conditions: Warm weather and longer days make summer an appealing time to move, reducing the risk of rain or snow-related delays.
• The housing market: The moving process tends to be more active in the summer, providing more buying and selling opportunities.

However, moving in the summer comes with significant drawbacks:

• High demand and prices: Due to its popularity, removal firms charge premium rates in the summer. Most companies will not confirm a booking until customers have exchanged and have a firm completion date. Therefore, you might also face limited availability and have to juggle dates at the last minute.
• Heat and exhaustion: Moving heavy furniture and boxes in the sweltering heat can be exhausting. Professional movers are used to all conditions; however, your move could take longer in hot weather…and you may also need to provide your removal crew with some cold drinks!

Spring and autumn: balanced options

Spring and autumn offer a balanced alternative to the busy summer months:

• Mild weather: Both seasons typically provide mild weather conditions, reducing the risk of extreme temperatures or inclement weather.
• Lower demand: Removal companies are less busy compared to summer, leading to more availability, and sometimes, lower prices.
• Flexible scheduling: With fewer people moving, you have more flexibility in choosing your moving date and can avoid the rush and possibility of last-minute logistical problems.

Winter: cost-effective but challenging

Winter is the least popular time to move, but it can be advantageous for some:

• Potentially lower costs: Due to low demand, removal companies sometimes offer competitive rates and they normally have greater availability.
• Faster transactions: The housing market tends to slow down in winter, potentially leading to quicker transactions and better deals on homes.

However, there are notable challenges:

• Weather risks: Snow, ice, and cold temperatures can complicate your move, making it physically demanding and potentially hazardous.
• Santa season: Moving during the festive season can be stressful as this is often a busy time for many people and may interfere with your plans and celebrations.

Conclusion: timing is everything!

Choosing the right time to move can make a significant difference in your overall moving experience. By avoiding Fridays and considering mid-week moves, you can save money and reduce stress. Similarly, while summer is the most popular time to move, opting for spring, autumn, or even winter can offer cost savings and better scheduling flexibility.

When planning your move, take into account your needs and then factor in the pros and cons of each season and day of the week. With thoughtful planning and the right timing, you can ensure a smoother, more efficient move to your new home.

Happy moving! 🚚

Yeates – a family firm since 1910. We have been helping people move successfully for many years and we have lots of experience. So, if you are planning a move and would like a quote, along with plenty of help and advice throughout the process, then call Yeates Removals and Storage on 01275 872251 or 01934 900525. Alternatively email info@yeates.co.uk or visit www.yeates.co.uk