Summer is the most popular time of year for people to move and about 70% of moves happen between Memorial Day & Labor Day. Moving is always stressful, so here are a few tips to make your summer move easier, especially if you are moving to a sunny and warm climate like Sanibel & Captiva, Florida.
1. Do Research & Plan Ahead
Movers are busiest during the summer months, so it’s important to plan ahead. Their schedules fill up quickly, so it’s best to schedule your move 6 to 8 weeks in advance. Try to schedule an early morning move so you don’t have to move during the hottest part of the day. Do your homework and compare rates, reviews, and quality of service to find the movers that best meet your needs.
2. Have a Yard Sale
The summer months are a great time to have a yard sale. The weather is warm, the sun is shining, and the days are longer. Why not try to make some extra cash by selling the items you don’t plan to take with you or things you no longer need? A yard sale creates a good opportunity to say goodbye to all of your neighbors and visit with them for a little while. If you have anything left over from the yard sale, donate to charity, toss, or give to friends or family. This will help lessen your load when it comes time to pack.
3. Pack Your Car
Some things just don’t mix well with heat, so it’s better to bring these heat sensitive items in your own car. You’ll have the air conditioner running and you’ll be able to park in shaded areas if you need to take a break. These are the items that can melt, warp, or get damaged in hot temperatures, like candles, artwork, and electronics. If there isn’t enough room for these things in your car, try to leave them in your old air conditioned home and put them on the moving truck last. Also, label the boxes so you’ll know to unload these items first and get them inside your new air conditioned home quickly to help minimize their exposure to the heat.
Make sure you bring summer essentials like plenty of bottled water and extra sunscreen. Include anything you might need in case of any travel delays, like a cooler with ice and cold towels. Summer is a popular time for vacation goers and weekend travelers, so traffic could be heavier in some areas.
4. Dress for the Heat
It’s important to stay cool (and hydrated!) during your move. Wear clothing that’s lightweight and fits loosely. Think breathable fabrics like cotton, and stay away from synthetic fabrics like polyester. Light colors will keep you cooler than dark colors. Also, cover yourself with SPF 30+ sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours. Bring sunglasses and a hat to protect your head and face from the sun.
Contact Phaidra McDermott with any questions about buying or selling a home on Southwest Florida’s Sanibel & Captiva Islands.