Most families and home owner prefer moving in the summer for many obvious reasons such as nicer weather to move in, kids are off school, and usually homes seller better in the summer. But what if we told you there are many advantages to moving in the fall and winter seasons?
Moving in Fall and Winter vs. Summer: Why Cooler Months Might Be Better for Your Move
Moving to a new home is a big job, but it can also be a fun and exciting adventure! Whether you’re moving to a new town, a new state, or just down the street, there’s a lot to think about—what to pack, how to get there, and when to move.
Did you know the time of year you move can make a big difference?
Many people choose to move in the summer, but there are some really good reasons why moving in the fall or winter might be smarter—and cheaper! Let’s explore the differences between summer and fall/winter moves, and find out why moving during the cooler months might be the better choice for your family.
Summer Moves: Popular, But Busy
Why People Move in the Summer
Summer is the most popular time of year to move. There are a few good reasons for this:
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Kids are out of school, so it’s easier for families to change schools
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The weather is warm and sunny (most of the time!)
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People take time off work during summer, making it easier to plan
But just because it’s popular doesn’t always mean it’s the best time to move.
The Problem with Summer Moves
Because so many people move during the summer, moving companies get very busy. That means:
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Movers can be fully booked weeks in advance
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You may not get the moving date you want
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Prices go way up during peak season
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It’s harder to find deals or discounts
Also, hot weather can make moving harder. Carrying boxes in the heat can be tiring and sweaty work!
Fall and Winter Moves: Cooler, Calmer, and Cost-Saving
Why Moving in the Fall or Winter Can Be Better
Fall and winter are the off-season for moving. Fewer people are packing up their homes during these months, and that means big benefits for you!
Let’s break it down:
1. Lower Moving Costs
This is one of the biggest reasons to move in fall or winter. Since not many people are moving, moving companies lower their prices to attract more customers.
This could mean:
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Cheaper rates for the moving truck
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Less cost for hiring movers
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More chances to find discounts or special offers
You could save hundreds of dollars just by picking a fall or winter moving date.
2. More Availability
Because summer is so busy, movers get booked up fast. In the fall and winter, moving companies have fewer customers, so they can give you:
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More time to talk and plan
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Better choices for your moving day
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Flexible schedules if you need to change your date
You’ll also have more time to ask questions and get help with packing or heavy items.
3. Cooler Weather
Moving in hot, sticky summer weather can make you feel tired fast. In fall and winter, the air is cooler, which can be nice when you’re carrying boxes or going up and down stairs.
You’ll probably sweat less, drink less water, and feel less worn out at the end of the day.
4. Faster Travel
During the school year, there are fewer people on vacation, so highways and roads may be less crowded. That means your move might be quicker and smoother.
Moving trucks also don’t get as hot inside, which helps protect items like electronics, candles, and food from overheating.
5. Easier to Get Help
Because the fall and winter seasons are quieter, your friends or family may have more free time to help you pack or move. They’re not off on summer trips or dealing with school breaks.
What to Watch Out For in Fall or Winter Moves
While fall and winter moves have a lot of good things going for them, there are also a few things you need to plan for:
1. Shorter Days
It gets dark earlier in the fall and winter, so you might need to start your move earlier in the day. Make sure you have flashlights or lamps if you’re still unpacking after dark.
2. Cold or Snowy Weather
In some places, winter can bring snow or icy roads. Be ready for:
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Slippery sidewalks
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Delays due to snowstorms
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The need for winter coats, gloves, and boots
Ask your movers if they’ve worked in snow before. Most good companies know how to stay safe and protect your belongings.
3. Holiday Timing
The fall and winter seasons include holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. Try not to schedule your move too close to the holidays, unless you enjoy a little holiday chaos!
Tips for a Successful Fall or Winter Move
Here are some smart tips to help your cooler-season move go well:
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✅ Check the weather forecast often so you’re not surprised
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✅ Dress in layers so you can stay warm without getting too hot
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✅ Clear paths from your house to the truck if there’s snow or ice
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✅ Have extra towels or blankets to protect furniture and boxes
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✅ Pack an emergency box with snacks, gloves, flashlights, and warm drinks
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✅ Call movers early, even in the off-season, to make sure you get your top choice
Summer Move vs. Fall/Winter Move: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Summer Move | Fall/Winter Move |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Higher (peak season) | Lower (off-season) |
| Mover Availability | Low (busy season) | High (more flexible) |
| Weather | Hot, sometimes too warm | Cool or cold, more comfortable |
| Scheduling | Harder to find a date | Easier to pick your day |
| Traffic | More vacations/travelers | Fewer road delays |
| Packing Help | Friends often busy | More likely to get help |
Final Thoughts: Is Fall or Winter the Right Time for Your Move?
If your family has a choice about when to move, consider a fall or winter move. It can save you money, give you more choices, and help your move feel less rushed and stressful.
Of course, every family is different. If school schedules or work make summer the only option, that’s okay too. But if you can plan for a cooler month, it might make your moving day even smoother.
No matter when you move, planning ahead, staying organized, and working together as a team will help your family settle into your new home with ease.
Happy moving—and stay warm if you’re moving in winter!


