Moving day is undoubtedly a significant event in anyone’s life.
Not only does it mark the culmination of weeks or even months of planning, but it also heralds the start of a new chapter in your life.
Whilst many people focus on packing and transport, one often overlooked aspect is picking the right moving date.
Several factors should be considered when deciding when to move, which we will discuss in this article.
By exploring these considerations, you’ll be better equipped to choose a day that fits your budget, schedule, and personal circumstances.
1. Budget Considerations
Your budget will play a key role in deciding when to move.
Weekends, bank holidays, and the summer months tend to be pricier times for removals, as many people choose these dates to coincide with their own time off or school holidays.
If you have a tighter budget, you could save money by picking a weekday.
Avoiding school breaks, especially in the busy summer, also tends to lower costs.
Remember that the cost of a removal service usually reflects the demand for that date.
The more in-demand a day is, the more you might pay.
So, if you’re flexible, choosing a quieter period can often help stretch your budget further.
2. Your Own Availability
It can be easy to lose track of all your commitments when moving house, especially if you have children starting at a new school or you’re about to begin a new job.
Make sure you consider any important events or deadlines before you settle on a moving date.
Booking a date that fits smoothly into your existing schedule will help reduce stress.
Trying to move during a busy work week when you simply don’t have the time may lead to last-minute changes or even the need for multiple trips, both of which can increase costs and complications.
3. Planning Ahead with Removal Companies
While your availability is crucial, a removals company’s calendar also significantly impacts when you can move.
Popular slots, such as Fridays and the summer holidays, fill up quickly.
If these are the only times you can move, it’s best to plan well in advance and secure your slot early.
Leaving it to the last minute can mean missing out on your preferred company or, worse, choosing a removals firm that might not meet your standards.
Booking your moving date as soon as you’ve decided on it is a good way to avoid disappointment.
4. What Time of Day to Move?
Once you’ve settled on the week or month you’d like to move, the next step is to think about the actual time of day.
Many people find that an early start works best.
By starting early, you allow yourself more time for any unexpected hiccups and are more likely to beat the worst traffic.
Moving in the morning also means you can schedule breaks when needed rather than rushing through everything in the afternoon or evening.
A calmer pace generally makes for a smoother move and a more pleasant experience overall.
5. Fridays: The Most Popular Day
Friday is famously the most popular day to move house.
It’s near the weekend, so you typically only need to take one day off work and can then use Saturday and Sunday to unpack or complete any finishing touches.
This popularity can be both a blessing and a curse.
Fewer interruptions to the broader chain reduce the likelihood of delays.
On the other hand, more competition means removal companies book up quickly, and traffic on certain routes can be heavier.
Planning ahead is especially important if a Friday move is a non-negotiable for you, as these tend to be booked well in advance.
6. Midweek Moves
While many people favour Fridays, moving on a weekday, especially Tuesday or Wednesday, has its own benefits.
Demand is often lower, which can mean more choices regarding removal slots.
You’ll also typically pay less than you would for a Friday or weekend move.
If you can spare the time off work, a midweek move can be a good option to minimise stress and costs.
Removal teams will likely have more time to dedicate to your move, and you’re less likely to be caught in traffic.
Some households find that taking an extra day or two off work during the week helps them settle in quickly.
7. How Far in Advance Should You Book?
The answer to this question will very much depend on the season.
Summer holidays, bank holidays, and Fridays throughout the year are hectic, so try to give your chosen removals company as much notice as possible, ideally, at least four to six weeks.
If you plan to move during a quieter period, you may be able to book at shorter notice, but it’s always wise to err on the side of caution.
A well-planned booking not only helps you secure your ideal moving date but also gives you plenty of time to organise packing, sort through belongings, and tie up any loose ends without feeling rushed.
Choose Curtiss & Sons for a Smooth Move
Once you’ve decided on the moving date that suits you best, the next step is to pick a removals company you can trust. Curtiss & Sons, established in 1871, has held the Royal Warrant for over 80 years and continues to serve the Portsmouth community with dependable removals and storage solutions.
You’ll benefit from our many years of experience by placing your move in our capable hands.
We also offer a variety of secure storage options if you need somewhere to store your belongings during the move.
Give us a call today to find out how we can help make your moving date as straightforward as possible.
Alternatively, fill out our quick enquiry form, and one of our friendly team members will be in touch to discuss your requirements.
Whether you’re moving next week or in a few months, we look forward to helping you settle into your new home smoothly.
