Moving to a new home is an exciting journey, but it can also be challenging, especially during peak season. Peak moving season typically occurs in the summer and around holidays when kids are out of school and adults have time off. The demand for moving services surges during this period, leading to limited availability and higher costs. However, you can efficiently navigate the busy moving season with proper planning and a few strategic moves. In this blog, we’ll share Matco’s Calgary movers‘ top tips to help you tackle the challenges of moving during peak season.
Book Your Move Early
The key to a successful move during peak season. When you know your moving date, search for professional moving companies and book their services promptly. Waiting until the last minute can lead to disappointment, as reputable movers tend to get booked quickly during busy periods. By securing a moving company well in advance, you can ensure you have the assistance you need on your preferred moving day.
Be Flexible with Your Moving Date
If possible, try to be flexible with your moving date. Peak season is in high demand, and Calgary movers might have limited availability on specific days. If you have the flexibility to move a day or two earlier or later, it could increase your chances of securing the services of your preferred movers and possibly save you some money.
Take the Opportunity to Purge and Downsize
Before packing up your belongings, take the opportunity to declutter your home. Purging items you no longer need or use can significantly reduce the number of things you must move. This makes your move more cost-effective and also saves time and effort during packing and unpacking. Consider donating, selling, or giving away items that are still in good condition but no longer serve you (this is also the perfect time to buy that new couch you’ve been wanting!).
Plan Ahead for Packing
Packing is a time-consuming task that requires careful planning. During peak season, it’s even more critical to start packing early to avoid last-minute stress. Create a packing schedule, starting with non-essential items and gradually working to everyday essentials. Label each box clearly with its contents and the room it belongs to, which will help streamline the unpacking process later.
If you aren’t keen on packing everything yourself, Calgary movers are expertly trained in packing your items to minimize damage during transit. Calgary movers offer everything from a piece-by-piece pack to a full-service pack and unpack. If you have questions, your moving consultant can explain the different levels and costs of packing. Consider opting for partial packing services, which allows the moving company to pack specific items or rooms while leaving the rest to you. Partial packing can be a time-saver and ensure that delicate or valuable items are packed safely by experts.
Consider Your Storage Needs in Advance
During peak season, storage facilities may also experience increased demand. If you need to store your belongings before or after your move, reserve storage space well in advance. This guarantees you a secure place to store your items during the transition.
A bonus with using your Calgary mover’s storage facilities is that they handle the transport in and out of storage. This means you can spend more time focused on the important things and less on moving and storage logistics.
Notify Your Utility Companies Early
Contact your utility companies early to arrange for the disconnection of services at your current home and the connection of services at your new home. Informing them ahead of time ensures a seamless transition and minimizes the risk of disruptions during your move.
This includes utilities like water, power, electricity, and natural gas; you may also need to inform your internet and telephone provider of your move to ensure an undisrupted connection. While you’re at it, start updating your mailing address (especially for important bills and contacts).
Stay Hydrated and Be Prepared for the Weather
Moving during the summer months can mean dealing with hot weather. Make sure to stay hydrated and ensure that everyone involved in the move is taking regular breaks to avoid heat exhaustion. Prepare for the weather by wearing comfortable clothing and sunscreen if you spend extended periods outdoors.
Pack an Essentials Box
Pack a box with essential items you’ll need on moving day and the first day at your new home. Include items like toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, medications, and some snacks. This essentials box will save you from rummaging through multiple boxes to find the necessities.
If you’re moving locally, your Calgary movers will ensure this is the last box on the truck and the first box off. In case of a long-distance move, you may choose to keep this box with you, especially in case of unexpected delays. Remember that peak season means more vehicles on the road, more traffic, and more risk of accidents. Being prepared never hurts!
Label Your Fragile Items Clearly
In case items are damaged during your move, the claims department of your Calgary movers may be backed up during the busy peak season. Fragile items need extra care during a move, which will help prevent damage and frustrating delays.
Label fragile boxes clearly with “Fragile” or “Handle with Care” to ensure that the movers know to handle them delicately. You may also consider personally transporting especially delicate or valuable items to ensure their safety.
Book With Calgary Movers for the Perfect Peak Season Move
Matco Moving Solutions can help you with your local, long-distance or international move. We are a full-service moving company that is dedicated to delivering a stress-free and seamless moving experience. We have locations in Calgary, Edmonton, Yellowknife, Whitehorse and Inuvik and over 55 years of moving experience and expertise.
Contact us today for a free moving quote and to learn how Matco’s Calgary movers can help you with your next move.