May 25, 2025
When Is The Best Time To Move Cross Country?
Planning a cross-country move is no small feat. Whether you’re moving across Canada or coast to coast in Canada, timing can make a huge difference. The time of year you choose to move impacts everything from your budget to your experience on the road. But what is the best time to move cross country? Let’s break it down!
This guide explores how moving seasonality affects the experience and costs and how to choose the right time for your big move. We’ll also provide tips on working with a trusted cross-country moving company to ensure a smooth transition.
Factors to Consider When Moving Cross-Country
Before picking your moving date, it’s essential to understand the significant factors that can influence both the logistics and cost of your cross country move:
- Seasonality: Different seasons bring varying demand levels for long distance movers, weather conditions, and pricing.
- Budget: Moving costs tend to shift depending on the time of year.
- Weather: Long-distance travel across multiple provinces means varying conditions depending on the season.
- Personal needs: Family schedules, job requirements, and housing availability all affect the selection of a move date.
Pro Tip: A reliable cross-country moving company like Arctic Sunshine Movers, can help you plan for seasonal changes and make the moving process more manageable.
Now that we’ve laid the foundation let’s examine the best time to move cross country. (and not-so-best) .
Spring Moving Advantages
Spring is often touted as one of the best times to move cross country, and for good reason.
Why Spring Is Excellent For Cross Country Moving:
- Milder weather: Spring temperatures are comfortable, avoiding winter’s extreme cold and summer’s heat.
- Lower demand: Spring falls just before the peak moving season, meaning lower prices than summer.
- Flexible schedules: Schools are still in session, and fewer families are moving, making it easier to secure dates with a quality cross-country moving company.
What To Watch For:
Early spring can still bring unpredictable weather in some regions, especially in northern states or parts of Canada. Check the forecast to avoid any nasty surprises!
Actionable Tip: Aim for mid-to-late spring, when roads are clear and the weather has stabilized.
Summer Is The Peak Moving Season
Summer is, hands down, the most popular time of year for cross-country moving, and it’s easy to understand why it’s so in demand.
Why Summer Is A Popular Time To Move:
- Convenient schedules: For families with kids, summer offers a perfect window to move without interrupting the school year.
- Extended daylight hours: Longer days give you more time to load, travel, and settle into your new home.
- Better availability of homes: Many people sell their homes in the summer, offering more options for buyers relocating across the country.
Challenges Of Summer Moving:
- Higher costs: Demand drives up prices during the summer. Both moving companies and rental trucks often charge premium rates.
- Hot weather: Extreme heat can make the physical labor of moving more demanding and uncomfortable.
- Limited availability: With so many people moving, it’s vital to book your cross-country moving company well in advance.
Pro Tip: If you need to move during the summer, aim for mid-week dates or early in the month to avoid peak demand.
Fall A Sweet Spot For Cross-Country Moving
Fall strikes a perfect balance between summer’s convenience and winter’s challenges.
Why Fall Is An Ideal Season To Move:
- Mild weather: Cool, crisp autumn air creates a fantastic environment for loading and unloading heavy furniture.
- Reduced demand: With kids back in school, moving activity decreases in the fall months, translating to lower prices.
- Scenic drives: If your cross-country move includes long drives, fall’s golden landscapes will make the experience all the more enjoyable.
Potential Downsides:
Parts of Canada and the northern United States may already begin experiencing snowfall by late fall. Be mindful of earlier winter-like conditions that could affect your plans.
Actionable Tip: Hire professional movers early in the fall for maximum savings and avoid surprise snowstorms.
Winter Moving Low Cost, High Effort
Moving during the winter isn’t for the faint of heart. But if budget is your top priority, winter could be your best option.
Why Winter Might Work For You:
- Cheaper rates: Due to decreased demand, cross-country moving companies and truck rental rates are at their lowest during the winter.
- Flexible scheduling: With fewer people on the move, you’ll likely have an easier time booking a date that works for you.
Challenges To Consider:
- Unpredictable weather: Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures complicate travel routes and logistics.
- Limited daylight: Shorter days mean less time to load and unload in natural light.
- Safety concerns: Icy roads and walkways increase the risk of accidents and injuries.
Pro Tip: If you must move during winter, plan meticulously! Check weather reports beforehand and consider working with a moving company experienced in navigating winter conditions such as Arctic Sunshine Movers.
Tips For Choosing The Best Time To Move Cross Country
Still unsure about the right time for your move? Here are some quick tips to help you decide:
- Flexible schedule: If your schedule allows, plan to move during the shoulder months (spring or fall) for a balance of affordability and comfort.
- Book early: Regardless of when you plan to move, book your cross-country movers as early as possible to secure your preferred date and avoid last-minute price hikes.
- Keep an eye on the weather: If travelling in winter or early spring, prepare for potential delays due to snowstorms, icy roads, or heavy rain.
- Plan mid-month: Most leases begin at the start or end of the month. Choosing a move date in the middle typically means greater availability of movers and lower costs.
Arctic Sunshine Movers: Make Your Move Easier With A Trusted Moving Company In BC
Regarding moving across Canada or any other cross-country relocation, timing isn’t just a luxury. It’s a game-changer. Whether you’re chasing savings during the winter or looking for convenience in the summer, knowing the best time to move cross country can make all the difference.
Remember, finding a reliable cross-country moving company is key to a stress-free move. Arctic Sunshine Movers will help you handle weather, timing, and logistics, freeing you to focus on settling into your new home.
Are you ready to kick-start your cross-country move? Take the first step with our free moving quote and connect with our experienced long distance movers who genuinely care. Because a well-timed move isn’t just smart, it’s essential! Happy moving!
