Moving Tips

Top 5 Things to Know Before Moving This Summer

There’s no time like summer to start fresh—unless you wait too long to book your mover. While everyone else is basking in the sun, a hidden competition for the best moving slots is already underway. Don’t wake up in July scrambling for a moving crew when you could be settling into your new home. The secret? Planning ahead, making smart decisions, and knowing what matters most when the pressure’s on. Scroll down to see the five things you must know before moving this summer—and lock in your date with Academy Movers now.

1. Book Your Movers Early

Summer is the peak moving season, with 45 percent of all U.S. relocations occurring between May and August. Industry trackers call June 1 and June 30 the two single busiest days of the year for load-outs, followed closely by August 1. That crush of demand ripples through every market. 

Because truck inventory and trained labor are finite, average booking windows stretch from two weeks in February to six-to-twelve weeks once summer calendars open. Fridays at month-end disappear first; add a three-day holiday weekend and even reputable moving companies can be forced to decline overflow jobs, pushing anxious customers toward unvetted subcontractors who may mishandle treadmills or miss insurance filings.

A proactive eight-week timeline keeps you ahead of that crunch:

• 8 weeks out — survey & scope. Schedule an in-home or virtual walkthrough, flag any specialty items. Written estimates locked in now still reflect shoulder-season pricing.
• 6 weeks out — logistics & permits. Reserve building elevators, loading docks, or curb lanes; city clerks in Scottsdale and Bellevue both require five-business-day notice for street-use signage during peak months.
• 4 weeks out — packing prep. Gather sturdy wardrobe boxes and eco-friendly packing materials, then pre-label off-season clothes and rarely used items. Getting a head start on packing not only keeps things organized but also reduces billable crew hours on moving day.
• 2 weeks out — fine-tune access. Confirm parking space numbers, gate codes, and HOA rules, and finalize any professional moving crew assignments so dispatch can send the right lifting gear.

Why sweat these details? First, late reservations can cost 20–30 percent more and second, slotting services piecemeal often means three arrival windows instead of one. A cohesive schedule lets expert movers in Utah field the same bonded team for household goods, erasing layered mark-ups and reducing the risk of driveway gridlock. Moreover, consolidating dates improves insurance coverage: one master bill of lading tracks every carton, slate, and firearm cabinet from origin to destination, simplifying any valuation claims.

2. Heat, Humidity, and Weather Can Affect Your Move

Summer temperatures in Phoenix can soar above 110°F, while Seattle and Surrey might see unpredictable rain or sticky humidity. Extreme weather not only challenges your comfort but can also put your belongings and health at risk. Improperly packed electronics may overheat in the truck. Artwork and wooden furniture can warp or crack if exposed to moisture or heat for too long.

Critical weather-related considerations:

• Timing – Moving early in the day helps avoid the harshest afternoon sun and keeps crews safe.
• Hydration and Rest: – Ensure everyone has access to water and shaded rest breaks.
• Packing Materials – Use temperature-resistant and moisture-proof packing materials for electronics, artwork, and musical instruments.
• Protective Measures – Consider special wrapping or climate-controlled storage if your move spans several days or involves sensitive items.

Pro tips for weather-proofing your move:

• Monitor the Forecast – Stay updated on local weather in both your origin and destination.
• Keep Essentials Handy – Pack a cooler with drinks and a personal bag with sunblock, hats, and lightweight clothing for move day.
• Communicate with Your Movers – Inform them of any items that require extra care due to temperature or moisture.

Expert movers in Utah know that careful planning and the right materials make all the difference when battling summer heat and humidity.

3. Summer Is Peak Season for Scams and Rogue Movers

High demand doesn’t just bring out the best companies—it also attracts unlicensed operators and moving scams. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Better Business Bureau both warn that complaints about moving fraud spike each summer. Common red flags include requests for large deposits, lack of a physical address, and vague or incomplete contracts. Here’s how you can identify trustworthy professional movers in Utah:

• Licensing and Insurance – Legitimate movers will provide their U.S. DOT number (for interstate moves) or provincial/state registration on request.
• Physical Address – A real business will have a physical office you can visit or verify online.
• Transparent Estimates – Reputable movers offer written, itemized estimates—never just a verbal quote.
• Consistent Branding: – Company names, logos, and contact details should match on all documents and trucks.

Consequences of choosing the wrong mover:

• Lost or Damaged Belongings – Rogue operators may disappear with your property or hold it hostage for extra fees.
  
• Legal Headaches – Uninsured moves leave you with little recourse if something goes wrong.
  
• Financial Loss – Large, nonrefundable deposits or “final bills” far above the estimate can strain budgets.

Protecting yourself from summer moving scams requires diligence and careful research before you commit to any moving company. Start by reading recent customer reviews on independent platforms such as Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau. Pay close attention to patterns in the reviews—consistent complaints about delays, damaged property, or unexpected charges are all red flags. 

Next, always check the credentials of any mover you are considering. For interstate moves within the United States, use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s mover search tool to confirm the company’s registration and safety record. In Canada, consult your provincial consumer protection agency to verify that your chosen movers are licensed and in good standing. 

Do not hesitate to ask for documentation, including proof of insurance, all required licenses, and a clear, written contract outlining the services and costs. Legitimate professional movers in Utah or any region will have no issue providing these details. Review the contract carefully, making sure every promise is put in writing and there are no hidden clauses.

Be cautious of movers who demand large, upfront deposits or only offer vague estimates without conducting a proper assessment of your belongings. Secure communication and transparency at every step are essential for your protection. By taking these proactive measures, you significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to summer moving scams and ensure your transition is handled with integrity and care.

4. Summer Moving Means Special Logistics for Families, Businesses, and Students

No two moves are exactly alike, especially during the summer when timelines can be tight and coordination is crucial. Families must plan around school calendars and childcare. Businesses face the challenge of minimizing downtime. College students might be juggling leases, internships, or moves to entirely new cities. Understanding these unique pressures—and how professional movers can help—can make all the difference.

Families:

• School Transitions – Arrange moves to avoid overlaps with the school year. Notify schools in advance for transfers and secure transcripts and records.
• Childcare – Secure care for young children and pets on move day to ensure safety and efficiency.
• Packing Strategy – Let kids decorate and label their own boxes for a smoother adjustment.

Businesses:

• Minimize Downtime – Schedule moves outside normal business hours or over weekends when possible.
• IT and Equipment – Plan ahead for safe transport and setup of computers, servers, and sensitive files.
• Clear Communication – Inform employees, clients, and vendors of move timelines well in advance.

Students:

• Short Leases – Many student moves happen at the start or end of summer; book moving services and storage early to beat the rush.
• Shared Spaces – Coordinate with roommates to avoid duplicate efforts and confusion.
• Travel Plans – Plan move-in and move-out dates around flights, internships, or orientation schedules.
  

5. Packing and Prep Take Longer Than You Think

Packing is almost always the most time-consuming part of any move. During the busy summer season, underestimating the amount of time or materials needed can lead to chaos, lost items, or even damage. Industry research suggests the average three-bedroom household needs at least 50–60 hours to pack properly, not including disassembly or special prep for fragile items.

Key packing tips for summer moves:

• Create a Timeline – Map out each room and set deadlines for completion.
• Gather Materials Early – Stock up on boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers well in advance. Stores often run low during peak moving months.
• Sort and Declutter – Donate, sell, or recycle unwanted items before you pack—less to move means less stress.
• Label Everything – Use detailed labels and color-coding to streamline unpacking and avoid confusion in your new space.
• Plan for Essentials – Pack an “open first” box with daily necessities—medications, toiletries, chargers, snacks, and key documents.

Choosing professional movers in Utah and neighboring states ensures you have the expertise, supplies, and support to pack efficiently, reducing stress and saving valuable time.

Make Your Move Count—The Academy Movers Advantage

Summer moves are a rite of passage for many families and businesses, but they’re also filled with unique challenges that demand careful preparation and trustworthy partners. From early booking and weather planning to scam prevention, family logistics, and packing strategy, a successful move depends on clear information and dependable service. 

With a track record of reliability, community commitment, and comprehensive moving solutions, Academy Movers stands out among professional movers in Utah. If you’re ready to move with confidence and make a positive impact in your community, contact us today for a custom quote and discover the difference that purpose-driven moving can make.