From bustling summer months to frigid winters, moving at any time of the year comes with challenges. The fall season, however, offers advantages that may make your move less of a hassle. Cooler temperatures and less hectic schedules can provide a more relaxed and manageable moving experience, allowing you more time to focus on settling into your new home.
Fall’s uniqueness is not limited to its advantages though – there are also a few challenges to navigate, including moisture control and shortened daylight hours. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your fall move as smooth as possible.
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Lower Moving Costs
Because most people opt for summer or springtime moves, fall is a great time to relocate. Moving in the off-season means less hectic schedules for moving companies, leading to more flexible booking options. Lower demand also means moving costs are generally reduced, making it a cost-effective option compared to the peak summer season.
By combining these services with a labor-only moving company, where you can save up to 30-50% compared to traditional full-service movers, you can significantly reduce your overall moving costs.
The Fall Housing Market
Fall is also a great time to buy a house, with the housing market slowing down around October. With the most competitive months of the year behind you, prices may reflect the decreased demand. This means you could get more bang for your buck if you’re looking to buy a new home.
If you’re looking to sell, you may have an advantage as well. Curb appeal, or how attractive your property looks from the sidewalk to a prospective buyer, can also skyrocket at this time. The combination of fall foliage and clean landscaping should never be underestimated!
Cooler Temperatures
Unlike the sweltering heat of summer, fall’s cooler weather makes lifting and moving boxes much easier. Milder temperatures help prevent overheating, one of the most common challenges when moving in warmer months. While you should always stay hydrated and take measures to prevent exhaustion, fall weather will make this much less difficult.
Layering
One thing to keep in mind is that temperatures may fluctuate on the day of your move. Dressing in layers is a good idea to be sure you’re ready for anything that arises. Bring a rain jacket or hoodie to ensure you’re prepared for any unplanned showers and comfortable while moving.
Layering outerwear with long sleeves can give you some wiggle room to cool off if you need to shed a layer or two. Wearing closed-toed shoes is always recommended for moving due to the risk of dropping heavy items. Opting for a warmer option, such as boots with good traction, is the best choice for this time of year.
Moisture Control
Protecting yourself during your move should be your priority, but you should also take measures to protect your belongings. As temperatures drop in the fall, condensation can form, especially if you’re moving between environments with different temperatures. Avoid packing items sensitive to moisture in areas prone to condensation.
Here are a few examples:
- Electronics
- Art
- Clothing
- Books
- Photos
- Ceramics
- Furniture
Ensure your boxes and furniture are well-protected from potential dampness. Plastic wrap or waterproof covers are an effective way to do this, especially if transporting them in an open truck. Avoid placing items directly on the ground where moisture could seep in and store your items in a well-ventilated area to prevent mold or mildew damage.
Daylight Limitations When Moving in the Fall
Another challenge with fall moves is the daylight hours you’ll have to work with. Daylight savings time happens in the first week of November when all clocks “fall back” an hour. Shorter days and longer nights mean that starting your move early will allow you to take advantage of the limited daylight hours, which can end as early as 5 or 6 PM.
Moving at night carries several risks, such as accidents due to poor visibility, so it’s crucial to stay aware of when it gets dark. Consider hiring a moving company to make the most of daylight hours, ensuring a smoother and quicker move.
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Moving During the School Year
Moving with kids can be particularly challenging in the fall due to the disruption it can cause to their school schedules. As the school year gets underway, children adjust to new academic routines and extracurricular activities that have just started or are about to begin. If your move is within the same area or school district, managing the transition can be more feasible, allowing kids to continue their routines with minimal interruption.
However, suppose the move requires switching schools or districts. In that case, this can significantly complicate matters, potentially causing your kids to miss out on important activities or struggle with adjusting to a new school environment. The combined stress of adapting to a new home and routine can make fall moves particularly strenuous for them. Talking to your kids about your move and finding new extracurricular activities for them to get involved in are a couple of ways that you can combat this stress. It’s important to consider the impact the timing of your transition could have on your kids, even with all the advantages of a fall move.
Conclusion
Relocating is always a challenge, but moving in the fall has benefits that can make the process considerably easier. Cooler weather and less hectic schedules for moving companies can lead to a more streamlined and enjoyable experience, allowing you to save money while focusing on settling into your new home. Moreover, the autumn housing market might offer better pricing and curb appeal for buyers and sellers alike.
By staying mindful of challenging factors, you can take full advantage of the fall season for a successful and efficient move. Managing moisture is crucial, as autumn’s damp conditions can potentially damage your belongings if not properly protected. Additionally, shorter daylight hours can limit the time available for your move, making it important to start early and plan accordingly to avoid the pitfalls of moving in the dark. If you’re moving with kids during the school year, this could also pose challenges as they adjust to new school environments and routines. By proactively addressing these issues, you can ensure a smoother transition and mitigate any potential setbacks.
Embrace the fall season’s unique conditions with these strategies to make your relocation as efficient and successful as possible!
Skylar Sanders is an Atlanta native and earned her BA in Film and Media Studies from Georgia State University in 2022. She is currently a graduate student at GSU studying Communications with a concentration in Digital Media Strategies. In her free time she enjoys being in nature, volunteering, creating digital art, and catching up on her favorite TV shows.