Summer is not only a popular time for families to move, but it's also the busiest time for the moving industry. This means that prices may be higher and availability may be more limited compared to other seasons. So if you're planning on moving this summer, it's important to start planning and booking your move as early as possible. We're sharing some helpful tips to make your summer move a smooth and stress-free process.
Moving Over the Summer? Plan Ahead.
Before you even start packing, it's important to create a moving timeline. This will help you stay organized and on track leading up to the big day. Start by setting a date for your move and work backward from there, accounting for tasks like decluttering, packing, and booking movers or renting a moving truck. Note important dates, such as when your lease ends, your closing dates, and when your new home will be ready for move-in.
Also, make sure to create a list of important tasks that need to be accomplished before the move. This might include things like:
canceling utilities at your current home
setting up utilities at your new home
changing your address
setting up internet at your new home
registering for school
and more
Many moving service providers experience a high demand during the summer. That's why it's essential to plan and book your Go Mini's rental in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles. Also, if you have any items stored at one of our locations, please call us a few days before to schedule delivery services.
What NOT to Store
When packing items for storage or transport during the hot summer months, it’s important to consider how extreme heat can impact them. Most furniture, clothing, and other household goods can withstand short-term exposure to these conditions, but other items are susceptible to damage from heat exposure.
Make sure to separate and prepare sensitive items in your storage pile for safekeeping or alternative transportation during your move:
Temperature-Sensitive Items: This includes things like candles, some plastic items, cosmetics, and more.
Fine Art, Antiques, and Collectibles: Take extra steps to protect your fine art, antiques, and other collectibles. Be sure to wrap them appropriately and for maximum protection, do not store these items inside your container.
Electronic Devices: Most electronic devices cannot withstand extreme heat for extended periods of time and are not ideal for long-term storage in a Go Mini’s container. If you must transport those items during your relocation, consider loading them at the last minute and take extra steps to wrap and protect them during transit.
Vinyl Records: Vinyl records are highly susceptible to heat damage. If you collect vinyl, we suggest carrying them with you in your car and storing them in a cool place at home.
Photos: Heat can cause photos to “melt” and stick together. If possible, avoid packing photo albums and photo boxes inside your container.
Combustibles: Any hazardous or flammable items should not be stored or transported inside your container
REMINDER: Check our list of non-allowables for additional items that should not be stored or transported in your Go Mini’s container.
Organization is Key During a D.I.Y. Move
The biggest tip we can give for a smooth summer move is to stay organized. This is especially important if you're planning on doing a DIY move.
Label Everything
Start by labeling all of your boxes with the room they belong in and a brief description of what's inside. You can even color code each room to make unpacking easier later on.
Declutter Before You Pack
Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter your home and get rid of any items you no longer need or use. Not only will this make packing easier, but it will also save you time and money by reducing the amount of items that need to be moved. Consider donating or selling items that are in good condition, and recycling or properly disposing of any items that can't be donated.
Pack an "Open First" Box
When packing your belongings, it's important to pack an "open first" box with essential items you'll need as soon as you arrive at your new home. This may include things like toilet paper, toiletries, paper towels, and basic tools.
Pro-tip: Check our Packing and Organizing Mega Guide for more tips.
Enjoying Your New Home
Remember to take breaks and enjoy your new home during the moving process! Moving can be stressful, but it's also an exciting new chapter for you and your family. Take some time to explore your new neighborhood, try out new restaurants, and get to know your neighbors. Before you know it, you'll be all settled in and enjoying the summer in your new home.
Protect Yourself From the Sun
Moving in the summer means being exposed to hot temperatures, so it's important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Make sure to have plenty of water on hand and take breaks in the shade if needed. Wear sunscreen and protective clothing to avoid sunburn.
Start Unpacking
It can be overwhelming to coordinate and set up your new home after your items have been delivered, especially when you have kids to take care of. However, if you label your boxes and items properly from the beginning, sorting them into the appropriate rooms will become much easier while you are unloading.
Once your container is emptied, it is best to start unpacking your home one room at a time. Begin with the most essential rooms first, such as the kitchen and bathrooms.
Pro tip: Don't overdo it, especially in the heat of the summer. Take breaks, have snacks and drinks on hand, and delegate tasks, if possible, to get the job done more efficiently.
Prepping for Back-to-School After a Move
Heading back to school can be an exciting time for kids, but if your recent move has your children feeling nervous about starting a new school year in a new place, there are some things you can do to help ease their minds.
Introduce your Children to the Neighborhood
Before the school year begins, take the kids on a walk around the area to show them some important spots, like the nearby convenience store, library, and, of course, their future school. This will help them get familiar with the area and get a general sense of what it's like.
Back-to-School Essentials
Make sure your children have all the back-to-school essentials before the first day. Help them feel unpacked and settled before the big day and set aside some time for a back-to-school shopping trip to make sure they have everything they need to make a smooth transition into their new year of learning.
How Go Mini’s Can Help Your Summer Move
When you choose Go Mini’s for your moving and storage needs, you can rest assured that your belongings will be protected from the summer heat. Our containers are made with premium materials to keep your items safe and secure during transportation and storage.
Ventilation: All of our containers have multiple ventilation holes to ensure proper airflow and prevent heat build-up inside the container.
Weatherproofing: Our containers are weather-resistant and designed to withstand extreme temperatures, keeping your belongings safe from the elements.
Tie-down System: Our interior tie-down system keeps your items in place during transportation and prevents them from shifting or falling over.
Secure Locking System: Our containers come equipped with a locking system that keeps your items safe and secure during transportation and storage.
At Go Mini's, your safety and the safety of your belongings is our top priority, especially during the hot summer months. We recommend that you follow these tips and utilize our protective features to ensure a smooth and stress-free move into your new home. With our careful attention to detail, you can trust that your belongings will arrive at your new home in the same condition as when they left.
Tackle Your Summer Move with Go Mini's
Summer is a popular time to move, but it can also be challenging with the heat and busy schedules. By staying organized, taking breaks, and utilizing Go Mini's protective features, you can make your summer move a success.
No matter what time of year it is, Go Mini's is here to provide you with convenient and reliable moving and storage solutions. So, whenever you're ready to plan your move, get an instant quote and learn how we can help you with your next relocation. Here's to new beginnings at your new home!
