Published: May 01, 2025

Spring vs. Summer Moving: Which Season Is Best for You? 

Moving to a new home is an exciting journey, but choosing the right season can make all the difference. Spring and summer are the two most popular times for moving, each offering its unique advantages and challenges. Timing your move wisely can reduce stress and save money. Whether you’re considering mild spring weather or summer’s extended daylight hours, this guide will help you decide the best time to move.

Spring Moving: Pros and Cons

Pros of Moving in Spring

• Lower Costs: Since peak moving season begins in late spring, early spring moves are often at lower rates. This means you can take advantage of less demand, which often translates to discounts on moving services and other related costs.
• Mild Weather: Spring temperatures are cooler than summer, making moving more comfortable. The moderate climate helps prevent overheating, allowing you to stay energized and focus on packing and settling into your new home.
• Increased Home Availability: Many homeowners list properties in spring, giving buyers and renters more options. This wider selection increases your chances of finding a home that fits your needs, like more space or a certain neighborhood.
• Flexible Scheduling: Moving services have better availability in early spring, making it easier to get your preferred date. With more options available, you have more flexibility to plan your move around your personal schedule and needs.

Cons of Moving in Spring

• Unpredictable Weather: Rain showers and storms can make the moving process more challenging. The weather can change quickly. You may need to adjust your plans or deal with delays if the weather turns unfavorable on moving day.
• School Year Disruptions: Families with children may find it inconvenient to move in the spring in the middle of the school year. This could disrupt your child’s education and social life, requiring additional effort to manage school transitions.
• Allergy Season: If you suffer from seasonal allergies, moving in spring could be uncomfortable. You may find it harder to focus. The pollen and allergens in the air can exacerbate symptoms, making the entire moving process more difficult.
• Mud and Mess: Rain or melting snow can quickly turn your move into a muddy mess, making it hard to keep things clean. You may need to spend extra time cleaning and managing the mess, which can add stress to an already busy moving day.

Summer Moving: Pros and Cons

Pros of Moving in Summer

• Better Weather Conditions: Summer’s dry, sunny days reduce the risk of rain delays during your move. This means you’re less likely to face unexpected weather interruptions, allowing for a more predictable and efficient moving day.
• More Daylight Hours: Longer days provide extra time for loading, unloading, and unpacking. With more daylight hours, you can complete all of your moving tasks at a steady pace, making the overall process feel less rushed and less stressful.
• Easier School Transitions: Families with children can move without interrupting the school year. Moving during summer vacation ensures that your children can adjust to their new home without the added pressure of school responsibilities.
• Higher Availability of Homes: Summer is a peak time for home sales, giving buyers more choices. With more properties on the market, you have a higher likelihood of finding a home that fits your specific needs, like location, size, or budget.

Cons of Moving in Summer

• Higher Moving Costs: Summer is the busiest moving season, leading to higher prices for moving services. The demand for moving companies is at its peak during this time, so booking in advance might still not guarantee the best rates.
• Hot Temperatures: Heat and humidity can make the moving process physically exhausting. If you’re not careful, the intense heat can quickly sap your energy, making it harder to stay focused and productive during the moving process.
• Limited Availability: Moving services book up quickly, requiring advanced scheduling. Because summer is such a popular time for moving, you may find it challenging to secure the date or company you prefer without booking well in advance.
• Increased Traffic and Delays: Summer travel and events can cause heavy traffic and slow down your move. The influx of tourists, vacationers, and events can create congestion, causing delays and making your move take longer than expected.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Spring and Summer

• Your Budget: If cost is a primary concern, moving in early spring may be the best option. By avoiding the peak summer months, you can often secure better rates for moving services. Moving companies are less busy in spring, which means they may offer discounts or flexible pricing. This can lead to significant savings, especially if you have a tight budget.
• Weather Preferences: Those who prefer cooler temperatures for moving may favor spring, while those who want to avoid rain might opt for the summer months. Spring is ideal for those who enjoy mild weather, but it’s important to consider the possibility of rain. Summer offers more consistent sunny days but can come with higher temperatures and humidity.
• Home Buying/Selling Plans: The housing market is most active in late spring and summer, offering more options but also more competition. This increased competition can lead to higher prices, making it important to be prepared for potential bidding wars. However, the higher availability increases your chances of finding the perfect property.
• Family and School Schedules: Families with school-aged children may find summer more convenient to avoid disrupting their education. Summer moves allow kids to settle into their new home without missing school. It also gives families time to adjust. However, for those looking to move before the school year ends, spring may provide the best timing.

Tips for a Smooth Move in Any Season

• Book Early: Regardless of when you move, securing moving services in advance ensures better rates and availability. Booking early also gives you more flexibility in choosing your moving date. It can help you avoid last-minute stress.
• Plan for Weather Conditions: For spring moves, prepare for rain with waterproof packing. In summer, stay hydrated and avoid peak heat. Pack an emergency kit with essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen for a smoother move. 
• Declutter Before Packing: Lighten your load by donating or selling items you no longer need. This will not only reduce the number of items you need to move but also help you organize better. It’s a great way to start fresh in your new home. 
• Label Boxes Clearly: Organize your belongings to make unpacking easier. Using color-coded labels for each room can save time and effort during the move. Clearly marked boxes will help you know exactly where to place each box.
• Have a Backup Plan: Unexpected weather or scheduling conflicts can arise, so be flexible with your plans. Have an alternate moving date in case of unforeseen delays. Being prepared for the unexpected will help keep stress levels low.

The best time to move depends on your personal needs, budget, and flexibility. If you’re looking for lower costs and cooler temperatures, spring is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize longer daylight hours and school-friendly transitions, summer may be the better option. Regardless of when you’re moving, careful planning and early preparation can make your relocation seamless and stress-free!

Looking for a reliable company to assist with your move? Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Central NJ or call us at (732) 800-5569.