Published: July 01, 2025

How to Stay Cool During Your Summer Move

Planning a summer move? You’re not alone. Summer is the busiest time of year for moving, thanks to long days, school breaks, and generally better weather. But while the season is great for logistics, the heat can turn moving day into a sweaty, stressful challenge. The good news? With the right prep and a few smart strategies, you can beat the heat and make your move smoother, safer, and a lot more comfortable. Here are nine must-know tips to stay cool, calm, and collected during your summer move.

1. Schedule Your Summer Move Early in the Day

Temperatures are typically cooler in the morning, so try to start as early as possible—ideally before 8 AM. Not only will you avoid the peak heat hours (usually 11 AM to 4 PM), but you and your moving team will be fresher and more efficient, too.

Bonus Tip: Avoid weekends if you can—they’re the busiest and hottest move days.

2. Dress for the Weather

What you wear can make a big difference. Stick to lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials. Choose light-colored clothes to reflect the sun, and wear a wide-brimmed hat or sunglasses to protect yourself outdoors.

Don’t forget: Closed-toe shoes are a must for safety—no flip-flops on moving day!

3. Stay Hydrated (Seriously)

This one’s non-negotiable. A summer move means you’ll be sweating more than usual, especially if you’re lifting boxes or constantly going inside and outside. Keep a cooler stocked with cold water and electrolyte drinks like Gatorade or coconut water.

Tip: Set reminders on your phone to take water breaks every 30 minutes—even if you’re not thirsty.

4. Use Fans and A/C Wisely

If your utilities are still on, blast the air conditioning while you’re packing or loading. You can also place box fans near doorways to keep air circulating throughout the home.

Pro Hack: Keep one room air-conditioned and use it as a cooling station to take breaks.

5. Pack a “Stay Cool” Essentials Bag

Make a personal moving-day survival kit to help you stay comfortable. Include items like:

• Reusable water bottles
• Sunscreen
• Cooling towels
• Hand-held fans or misters
• Snacks that won’t melt in the heat (think protein bars, dried fruit)

Having everything in one easy-to-reach bag saves time and keeps you moving efficiently.

6. Protect Heat-Sensitive Items

Not everything likes the heat. Electronics, candles, toiletries, plants, and food can all suffer in high temperatures. Pack these last, move them in air-conditioned vehicles if possible, and unpack them first. Consider placing sensitive items in insulated bags or coolers to minimize heat damage.

7. Take Care of Pets and Kids

Moving is stressful for little ones, especially during a summer move. Make sure pets and kids stay cool, hydrated, and out of the action.

Ideas:

• Set up a designated “cool zone” for them indoors
• Drop them off with a friend or relative for the day
• Make sure pets have plenty of water and aren’t left in hot vehicles

8. Use Portable Storage

One of the smartest hacks for a summer move? Skip the chaos of moving everything in one day and use a portable storage container from UNITS® of Northeast Massachusetts instead. These weather-resistant containers are delivered right to your driveway, letting you load at your own pace—early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler.

Why It Works:

• Avoids rushing in the midday heat
• Gives you time to stay organized
• Great for temporary storage if move-in/move-out dates don’t align

Once you’re packed, the container will be picked up and delivered to your new home. No rental trucks, no tight timelines—just a cooler, more manageable way to move.

9. Plan for Rest and Recovery

Don’t underestimate how exhausting a summer move can be. Schedule rest breaks, and have cold drinks and snacks ready when the work is done. Once you’re in the new place, take a cool shower, turn on the A/C, and order takeout—you’ve earned it.

A summer move might come with a few extra challenges, but with the right planning and a heat-conscious approach, you can tackle moving day with ease. Stay hydrated, dress smart, and keep your cool—literally and figuratively. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, these tips will help you survive (and maybe even enjoy) your summer move. 

For the easiest way to move in the summer, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Northeast Massachusetts or call (978) 800-8648!