When Is the Best Time to Move? Avoid Costly Mistakes with This Insider Guide

If you’re planning a move and asking yourself when is the best time to move, you’re definitely not alone. The timing of your move can make a big difference in how much it costs, how stressful it is, and even how smoothly things go. Whether you’re moving across town or across the state, picking the right time to move can help you avoid a lot of headaches.

At U & Me Moving and Storage, we’ve been helping people move in Southeast Florida since 1923. That’s over 100 years of experience, and we’ve seen what works, and what doesn’t. This guide will walk you through what to consider when choosing the best time to move, so you can make a smart decision and avoid costly mistakes.

Why the Timing of Your Move Matters

Moving isn’t just about getting boxes from one place to another. It’s also about planning things out so you save money and avoid last-minute stress. When you move can affect:

• How much you pay – Prices change depending on how busy movers are.
• How easy it is to book movers – Some dates fill up fast.
• Weather – Hot or stormy weather can make moving harder.
• School and work – You may want to avoid moving in the middle of the school year or during a busy time at work.

Knowing when is the best time to move helps you plan better and avoid extra costs or delays.

Best Time to Move: What to Expect Each Season

If you’re trying to figure out the best time to move, looking at the seasons is a smart place to start. Each time of year has its own pros and cons, depending on your budget, schedule, and even the weather. Below, we break down what you can expect if you’re planning to move in the spring, summer, fall, or winter, especially here in Florida.

Spring: A Good Time Before Things Get Busy

Spring is one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to moving. In Florida, the weather is warm (but not scorching), and the busy summer rush hasn’t started yet. This means you can often find better prices and more flexible scheduling.

Why is spring a good time to move? For one, the weather is usually mild, which makes moving boxes and furniture a lot more comfortable. You’re also more likely to find professional moving companies like U & Me Moving and Storage available during the days you want, without having to book months in advance.

Pros of moving in spring:

• Comfortable temperatures make moving less exhausting
• Easier to schedule with moving companies
• Prices are often lower than peak summer rates

Cons to watch out for:

• School is still in session, so timing might be tricky for families with kids
• Occasional rain showers could delay your move

Who should move in spring? Spring is a great time for couples, retirees, or anyone with a flexible schedule who wants to avoid the summer crowds and possibly save some money in the process.

Summer: Peak Moving Season

If you ask most people when they plan to move, they’ll probably say summer. It’s the most popular time of year to relocate, especially for families. School is out, many homes are bought and sold in the summer, and people have more free time.

But is summer the best time to move? It depends. While it’s convenient, it’s also the busiest and most expensive season for moving. Demand goes up, and so do prices. If you plan to move in summer, it’s important to book your movers early.

Pros of moving in summer:

• Kids are out of school, which makes the transition easier for families
• Longer daylight hours give you more time to unpack and get settled
• Ideal for aligning with lease renewals or home sales

Cons to keep in mind:

• Prices are at their highest due to high demand
• Movers get booked quickly, sometimes months in advance
• Florida’s summer heat and humidity can make moving physically challenging

Who should move in summer? Summer is best for families with school-aged children, college students, and people tied to school or work calendars. Just be sure to plan ahead!

Fall: A Great Mix of Savings and Flexibility

Fall often flies under the radar, but it might just be the best time to move for many people. After the summer rush dies down, things start to calm, making fall a sweet spot for flexible scheduling and better prices.

Why is fall a smart time to move? Moving companies usually have more openings, and they may offer discounted rates compared to summer. Plus, the weather in Florida is still pleasant, just watch out for hurricane season.

Pros of moving in fall:

• Movers are more available and may offer discounts
• Fewer people are moving, which means less traffic and more options
• Still warm weather without the intense heat of summer

Cons to consider:

• Fall is hurricane season in Florida, which can bring delays or cancellations
• Some school calendars make fall moves harder for families

Who should move in fall? Fall is perfect for individuals or couples without school-related restrictions. It’s also great for retirees, remote workers, or small businesses looking for a budget-friendly move.

Winter: The Most Affordable Time to Move

Winter is the quietest season in the moving world, which makes it the most budget-friendly time to relocate. While snow and ice might be an issue in other states, that’s not something most Florida residents have to worry about.

Is winter the best time to move if you’re trying to save money? Absolutely. Winter is considered the off-season for most moving companies, so you’ll usually find the best deals and the most flexibility in scheduling.

Pros of moving in winter:

• Lowest moving rates of the year
• Movers are usually more available and may offer faster service
• Less competition for storage units or rental trucks

Cons to be aware of:

• Holiday schedules can make planning more complicated
• Kids are in school, which could disrupt their routines
• Days are shorter, so there’s less daylight for loading and unloading

Who should move in winter? Winter is ideal for people who aren’t tied to school calendars, like singles, couples, or businesses. If your top priority is affordability and flexibility, winter might be your best bet.

Quick Comparison: Best Time to Move by Season

Season	Best For	Things to Watch Out For
Spring	Flexible movers, mild weather	Rain, school still in session
Summer	Families, students	Higher prices, limited availability
Fall	Budget-conscious movers	Hurricane season, school conflicts
Winter	Cost savings, flexibility	Holidays, shorter daylight hours

What’s the Best Month to Move?

In general, the best months to move are October through April. These are the slower, off-peak months. Moving companies usually offer lower prices and have more open dates during this time.

On the other hand, June through August is the busiest and most expensive time to move. If you want to avoid high costs and tight schedules, it’s best to avoid these months when possible.

Best Time of the Month to Move

Most people focus on the season or month they want to move, but have you ever thought about which part of the month is best? Surprisingly, even this small detail can affect how much your move costs and how smoothly it goes.

So, when is the best time of the month to move? If you can, try to plan your move for the middle of the month, ideally between the 10th and the 20th. Why? Because most leases and home closings start or end on the 1st or the 30th/31st. That means the beginning and end of the month are the busiest times for movers, and the most expensive.

Here’s what makes the mid-month move a smart choice:

• Lower prices: Since demand is lower during the middle of the month, many moving companies offer better rates or discounts.
• More availability: Movers, trucks, and even storage units are easier to book during this slower period.
• Less stress: You’ll avoid the rush of last-minute movers all scrambling for the same dates.

Is moving mid-month really worth it? Absolutely. If your schedule allows for flexibility, a mid-month move can help you save money, reduce wait times, and give you more options when it comes to choosing the exact day and time you want to move.

Best Time of the Week to Move

When choosing the best time to move, don’t just look at the calendar, look at the day of the week, too. Believe it or not, the day you move can make a big difference in how smooth and affordable the process is.

What’s the best day of the week to move? If you can take a day off work, the best days to move are Monday through Thursday. Most people prefer to move on the weekend because they’re off work, but that means movers are busiest, and often more expensive, on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Why weekdays work better:

• Better rates: With less demand, many companies offer weekday discounts.
• More flexible scheduling: You’re more likely to get your preferred time slot.
• Faster moves: Fewer people are moving during the week, which means less traffic, fewer elevator delays in apartment buildings, and less wait time overall.

Can I still move on the weekend if I have to? Of course! Just make sure to book well in advance, especially during the summer months. And be prepared for slightly higher rates. If your schedule is flexible, though, weekdays will give you more bang for your buck.

Best Time of Day to Move

Now that you’ve picked the season, the part of the month, and the day of the week, it’s time to think about what time of day you should move.

What’s the best time of day to move? The answer is simple: as early as possible. Starting your move in the morning sets you up for a more efficient, less stressful day.

Why mornings are best:

• Cooler temperatures: Especially in Florida, the heat picks up quickly. Starting early helps you beat the midday sun.
• More energy: Movers tend to be more alert and energized earlier in the day, which helps things go faster and smoother.
• More daylight: Starting early gives you plenty of time to unpack and settle into your new space before it gets dark.

Can I move in the afternoon? Yes, but there are a few things to consider. Afternoon moves can feel rushed, especially if there are delays earlier in the day (which can happen if your movers had another job before yours). You’ll also be working during the hottest part of the day, which can be uncomfortable and tiring.

Tip: If you’re moving into an apartment or building with an elevator, check if your building requires you to reserve a time slot. Early appointments are usually easier to book and give you more time to complete your move without going overtime.

Recap: The Best Time to Move by Month, Week, and Day

• Best Time of the Month: Mid-month (10th–20th)
• Best Time of the Week: Monday through Thursday
• Best Time of Day: Early morning

By planning your move during these less busy times, you’ll have a better chance of locking in lower prices, getting help from top-rated movers like U & Me Moving and Storage, and having a smoother moving day overall.

Whether you’re moving across town or across the state, our experienced team is here to help you plan, pack, and move with confidence, no matter what day you choose.

Need help picking the best time to move? Contact U & Me Moving and Storage today and let’s build a moving plan around your schedule.

Think About Your Life Schedule, Too

Besides looking at the calendar, think about what’s going on in your life. You might want to plan your move around:

• A job change
• The end of a lease
• A home sale closing
• Kids starting or finishing school

The more your move fits in with what’s already going on in your life, the smoother things will go.

What’s the Best Time to Move Based on Your Priorities?

Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

If saving money is your top priority: Move in the winter, during the week, and in the middle of the month.

If you want more flexibility and better service: Spring and fall are great choices. Movers are less busy, so you get more attention.

If you have school-aged kids: Summer may still be the best time, but book early to lock in a spot.

If you want help from a trusted moving company: Book ahead, especially if you’re planning a summer move. Companies like U & Me Moving and Storage fill up fast during the busy season.

Advice from the Pros at U & Me Moving and Storage

We’ve helped thousands of families and businesses move across Florida and beyond. Our team knows how to make your move simple, stress-free, and safe, no matter when you decide to go.

Here’s what we offer:

• Over 100 years of trusted experience
• Local and long-distance moving
• Professional packing and careful handling
• Flexible storage options
• Honest pricing and dependable service

If you’re still wondering when is the best time to move, we’re happy to talk through your options and help you pick the right time.

Final Thoughts: When Is the Best Time to Move?

So, when is the best time to move? It depends on what matters most to you, budget, schedule, weather, or convenience. While fall and winter usually offer the best deals, summer might still be your go-to if you’re working around school or work schedules.

No matter what time of year you choose, the most important decision is picking a mover you can trust.

Ready to schedule your move? Contact U & Me Moving and Storage to get started. We’ll help you figure out the best time to move and make the whole process as easy as possible.