When is the cheapest time to move?

When you’re moving on a tight budget, it’s only natural that you will be looking for good ways to reduce the moving cost. And while there are proven tactics that can help you save some money on your move (see here), one such effective cost-saving strategy to pay less when moving house is to choose the cheapest time to move out.

Interestingly enough, the moving date can affect the final moving bill more than you think. For example, quotes may differ by season, month, weekday, or start time. Availability and pricing vary by route, market, and service needs, so none of these choices guarantees a lower bill.

So, when is the cheapest time to move house? Read on to find out.

SEASON of the year

Summer can be a busy period for movers. the weather is fine (except maybe for the sweltering summer heat), children are out of school for the summer break and most families with children can move without any disruption of the school year. Summer is also the time when most people take days off work to go to vacation… or to move to a new home.

And because summer is the busiest time for moving, the demand for moving companies is much higher and as a result, that May-September period is worth comparing with other dates; it is not always the most expensive choice for every route.

So, if possible at all, avoid moving during the high-moving season. If your schedule allows it, compare quotes for late fall, winter, or early spring – that is, anytime between the end of September and the end of April.

Winter may offer different availability, but it is not always the cheapest choice. Ask which dates the mover can actually offer and compare written quotes before changing your plans.

See also: How to move in the winter

MONTH of the year

As mentioned above, the months starting from September and ending with April are part of the off-season for the moving industry, but a lower rate during that window depends on your route and the movers available. Request comparable quotes rather than assuming a discount.

January is not reliably the cheapest month for every route. Winter conditions vary by location, so you may as well be prepared for adverse weather such as snow, ice, and possible snow storms too.

Of course, winter is not that bad in the entire country, and most southern states never get too cold in winter anyway. So, in a way, the best time of year to move house will largely depend on where exactly you live in the country.

Read also: How to negotiate with moving companies

TIME of the month (WEEK)

What time of month should you move when you’re looking for a good deal from professional movers? The answer is hardly surprising: request mid-month and month-end quotes to see which dates cost less for your move.

The reason for that is quite logical – the beginnings and ends of months are the periods when the leases of most people start and end, so ask movers how availability affects the dates you need.

And that is why it is worth comparing the second or third week with other practical dates. Include extra rent or storage if changing the date would require it.

Good to know: How to move long distance on a budget

DAY of the week

You may have guessed by now that cheapest days of the week to move house are, once more, closely connected with the demand for professional moving services. Lower demand may bring a lower quote, but there is no fixed saving.

Monday through Thursday can be useful dates to test, but they are not guaranteed to cost less.

A weekday move may mean taking time off work or arranging childcare. Include those costs when comparing it with a weekend booking.  

When you’re planning your move, make an effort to stick to a weekday when determining your exact move date. As mentioned above, compare a Monday through Thursday booking with weekend offers before deciding. A lower mover bill may not cover lost pay or extra rent.

Good advice: How to get discounts when moving

TIME of day

Test flexible dates against the same quote

1. Give each mover the same inventory, addresses, access details, packing needs, and delivery requirements.
2. Request a written quote for your preferred date and practical alternatives. Record quote dates and expiry terms.
3. Compare included services and binding and non-binding estimate terms, not just the headline price.
4. Add extra rent, storage, lodging, childcare, and lost pay for each alternative.
5. Confirm pickup and delivery windows, cancellation terms, and availability before changing other reservations.

An early start may be practical if it fits your mover’s arrival window and building access hours. Getting an early start will give you more time throughout the day to get more things done. As a bonus, mornings are cooler in the summer months if you had no choice but to move during the high moving season.

Of course, most people also choose to start their moves early, so you’re not likely to get a better deal from professional movers with an early start of your relocation. If that’s an option at all, request an evening quote and compare its total with a morning booking. Check building restrictions, lighting, and local traffic; do not assume it costs less.

The best thing about it all is that you may get a good deal from a good mover right from the start so you won’t need to worry about scheduling your move day in a way to try to save money. Get a free quote from affordable movers near you and compare their cost estimates to see for yourself.