Tips for Staying Ahead of Peak Moving Season
The middle of May until about Labor Day weekend marks the peak moving season in America. During these months, moving companies and relocation specialists see substantial increases in those looking to relocate. During this time, thousands of people try to get their families moved into their new homes as quickly as possible. Many factors come into play, but the primary two are summer weather and summer vacation. It’s tough to argue that it’s much easier to move when the weather is great. Additionally, summer break is an ideal time for those moving as a family to get the kids settled into their new home before the new school year kicks off.
When relocating for work, it is not always up to the transferee when their household goods move can take place. Many employees have a firm “report to work” date that drives their relocation timeline. It could also come down to their relocation policies and the benefits that are provided to them by their employer.
When it comes to summer moves, it is best to get ahead of the busy moving season. Here are some tips on how to get a headstart.
The Advantages of Planning Ahead
With so many Americans moving within this tight timeframe, there are several advantages to getting a head start on this rushed window:
- Less stress: staying ahead of the curve when it comes to moving can help alleviate some of the stress that comes with moving. If everything is planned out, it helps assure that things will go more smoothly.
- Cost savings: if you can book ahead of time, or move out before the busy season, moving companies are more likely to work out better pricing with both customers and suppliers.
- Time: while relocating dates are not always up to the transferee, trying to get a jumpstart on the process can help assure the transferee’s household goods and vehicles can be transported, by the moving company, on dates that work for them.
- Flexibility: If dates, costs, or anything else needs to be changed or canceled, having time to do so is key.
What to Do If Moving Dates Are Not Up to the Transferee
Moving for a new job or promotion does not always give the transferee the power of when to plan for a move. Oftentimes, relocators might be forced to ship out during the peak moving season. When this happens there are some options, first off it is highly recommended to work with a relocation services company. Employers who have built out stable relocation policies typically already have these services available and many relocation companies provide moving employees with relocation coaches to aid the move. If the employee does not have access to such services, they should review their company’s relocation policies and offer letters to understand what moving costs may be covered.
Work with the Best to Avoid Stress
Moving is a stressful process just to go across town, but relocating to a new city and state can be an extremely complicated process, not to mention doing so during moving companies’ busy seasons. Working with an experienced relocation service company can do much more than just getting your household goods from point A to point B, they can assist in real estate needs and other relocation services. Connect with GMS today to discuss how we can help move employees and their families in a safe, timely fashion.
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Ann Knapp | CRP, GMS, CMC
Director, Transportation Services Ann has over 20 years of leadership experience in the moving and relocation industries. She is a council member for the International Association of Movers (IAM) Leadership Alliance. As a 2nd generation mover, Ann has worked in all areas of the industry from survey scheduling to claims settlement which has provided her with a well-rounded understanding of the ins & outs of moving. Ann is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Transportation Team, the GMS Transportation Network, managing contracts, policy advisement, and monitoring quality.
