Moving season
Approximately 40 million people move throughout the year within the United States. There is no time of year that moving companies do not work, except if extreme weather conditions do not permit for moving. The moving industry does however have a peak season, April through September. During this time there is high demand for moving services, especially during the summer months June and July when many families relocate.
When determining when to move, another consideration might be which part of the month, which day of the week, and what time of the day works best. Most moves occur at the end of the month, when leases on rentals end, and can roll over to the beginning of the next month. Weekends are typically the busiest days of the week, as many work during the week. Having flexibility with the day you move could be an advantage. On both moving and delivery day, beginning early in the morning is best. Productivity is at its highest, and in hotter climates it’s cooler in the mornings, making it easier and more efficient to load and unload.
Worth the wait
If your move does not need to take place during peak season, the quieter months, October through March might be best for your move. Moving during the slower months can reduce costs, and often provides more options for choosing a day of the week and a time of day that pick up or delivery can be scheduled.
Before moving, take your cat to the vet for a full medical check up, and obtain a certificate of health. They must be healthy for long distance travel. You’ll want to confirm all vaccinations are up to date, especially if you’re moving to a different state. Visit the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) to view vaccination requirements and registration forms for the state your moving too. You will also want to check with the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) if you’ll need to provide proof of immunizations at state crossings. Some cats might suffer from anxiety; discuss this with the vet as they might have travel suggestions.
Before you begin packing, declutter your home. You’ll be amazed at how much stuff you don’t need. It’s also an opportunity to leave some of the larger furniture behind. Think about how you would like your new home to be furnished. Items not being moved can be donated, given to friends and family, or anything of value can be sold. Lighting your load will really have an impact on the price you pay to transport your belongings to your new home.
