Moving is overwhelming at any time of year, and choosing the right time can be tricky. Should you go with the flow during the summer and spring when everyone is moving … or should you go against the grain and move during the winter?
Even though the cold season is usually the less desirable one, it provides more benefits than you might think.
Instead of immediately jumping into the “sunny” wagon, let’s discuss why moving during the winter may just be your best option!
Lower Costs for Moving Services
During the summer, many long-distance moving companies are frequently fully booked. Since it’s a popular time of year to relocate, moving companies jack up their prices due to heavy demand.
There’s a flip side of that coin, however — they lower their prices during the winter months to attract more customers. If your number one priority is to spend less money and get the best deals, you should consider moving during colder months. The cost-effectiveness will also allow you to utilize more of their services. In the summer you may only be able to afford the transportation, while in the winter you could afford both transportation and packing — or simply keep some extra cash in your pocket.
Moving at any time of year is an expensive process, and adding extra costs to it will only increase your stress.
Less Competition for Housing
There’s nothing worse than rushing to make a major decision like finding your home. It can be challenging to find the right house even in ideal conditions, let alone during summer when the competition is immense. So rather than having to settle on the apartment or the house you aren’t excited by, take your time choosing the option that is most beneficial for you in the winter season.
Another great perk is the cheaper rent. Just like moving services lower their prices to attract more customers, homeowners and landlords will usually lower prices in the winter months to attract more buyers and renters. Along with that, storage containers are also cheaper to rent during the offseason. Homeowners looking to downsize or who want storage space in between moves will be thrilled to find lower costs. That can be a great option if you are in the need of additional storage.
After the peak buying season concludes at the end of September, prices remain low through January and February.
Availability of Moving Services
Summer is the most hectic season for professional movers. Even if you seek to arrange the move a month in advance, moving firms soon book up. During the winter, though, moving timetables are more flexible. Because fewer people move during the colder season, it is a great time to schedule a relocation.
Those who are willing to endure the cold have the flexibility to schedule a move at any time. Even if you have to relocate at the last minute in the midst of winter, moving staff will almost certainly be accessible.
The best and cheapest time period is from late September through April — moving rates fall drastically in that range. With more options available, you won’t be rushed to choose a moving company that isn’t the best fit for you. Take your time and find the one that best fits your budget, offers all the services you need, and has a trustworthy reputation.
More Time Off of Work
Only those who have moved know how overwhelming and time-consuming the whole process is. Usually, you have to take some time off of work and spend your invaluable vacation time moving.
Also keep in mind that no matter how frugal you are, moving always comes with a lot of expenses. Missing work can sometimes leave you struggling for money, so taking the time off isn’t always the best idea.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. Many businesses close around the holiday season, which gives you the time and opportunity to use that time to relocate. Because of the holidays surrounding the winter months, you will have more time to schedule your move without taking off of work.
This way you won’t miss a paycheck and you’ll save those vacation days — not a bad trade-off for many.
Schedule Your Winter Move
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to relocate, this is it! Don’t allow the cold weather to keep you from settling into your perfect new home. Instead, take advantage of the cold time of year to save a little money. After all, relocating is already a costly endeavor.
Although the weather isn’t ideal this time of year, it’s preferable to overpaying and settling for a property that you’re not happy with. Plus, you can use plenty of tips and tricks to make your winter move less stressful.
