Are you planning to move this summer just because you have holidays for your children? Hold your horses? If you can avoid your move, consider an off-season move to make your move less stressful and successful.
The allure of a summer move is undeniable. Most families prefer moving during summer. Do you know why summer is a popular season for moving home? There are several reasons behind the popularity of a summer move among many Indian families. Long sunny days, school breaks for family, and a sense of a fresh start are the top factors that lure families to plan their moves during summer. But what if we told you summer is not the season for moving, especially if you are considering moving on a tight budget? Yes, this is true.
House moving during the off-seasons like winter and weekdays can offer you a smoother less stressful, and potentially more affordable house-shifting experience. So, if you want to make your move smoother and less expensive, ditch the traditional moving season which is of course summer.
Why You Should Consider an Off-season Move
Moving is a notoriously stressful experience. You must agree to this statement. Between packing, purging unwanted stuff, and scheduling logistics, it is easy to feel overwhelmed on a move. Also, moving during the summer season, you may have to face many problems such as dehydration caused by excessively hot weather. On the other hand, by avoiding traditional or peak-moving seasons and strategically planning your move for the off-season like winter months or weekdays, you can potentially unlock several benefits. Here is why you should consider planning your move during the off-season.
Off-Season Move Saves You Money
Professional packers and movers in Pune, Bangalore, Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other Indian cities are less busy during the off-season. This is one of the main reasons why professional moving companies can offer you services at cheaper rates. You can negotiate your movers as you have many options to choose from. This helps you grab a better deal and significant cost savings.
Scheduling Flexibility
Another benefit of moving during an off-season is the flexibility to schedule your move on your own terms. This is because you have many options of packers and movers in your city to choose from. If a mover does not get ready to move your household goods on your terms, you can consider another one. You won’t have to scramble for a date that works for both you and the movers. This allows you to choose the right date and time that best suits your preferences.
Off-Season Move is Faster and Less Stressful
Moving from one place to another is not only a time-consuming process but also stressful. The process can consume a considerable amount of your precious and important time. The stress of handling the moving process is another big issue that you may encounter on your move. However, you can enjoy a faster and less stressful move by planning it for an off-season. Moving during the winter months and weekdays can help you avoid traffic jams and congested roads. Additionally, you will have a more pleasant weather condition during the shifting process. All these factors can make your move faster and less stressful.
Finding the Perfect Place
Whether you are looking for a rental home or a new home to purchase, the peak moving season coincides with a surge in the housing market. On the other hand, you will find the rental market less competitive during the off-season. You will have several options for properties at less competitive rates. Because of several housing options available in your new city, you can negotiate the rates and find your dream home at cheaper rates.
Things to Keep in Mind When Moving During an Off-Season
Of course, there are plenty of perks when planning a move for an off-season. But there are a few things that you should keep in mind to make your off-season move successful. A little planning can help you significantly in this regard. Here are the top things you need to consider.
Weather Woes on Off-season Move
Moving during an off-season, especially in winter months, can create some hindrances in the shifting process. You may encounter some natural obstacles caused by rainfalls, snowfalls, slippery roads, invisibility, and extremely cold weather conditions. If you are worried because of these concerns, just be positive. You can avoid these issues by preparing yourself according to the weather conditions and planning your move according. Looking at the weather forecast and scheduling the move for a day with favorable weather conditions can relieve you. It is always best to choose a moving company that possesses protective gear and makes special arrangements for the safe transportation of your goods. If you are thinking of a DIY move, invest in waterproof packing materials and protective gear to make yourself and your goods safe in the process.
Shorter Days During Off-season Move
You must know the trust that days in winter are shorter than in summer. This means you will have fewer daylight hours if you plan your move during the winter months. This can further reduce efficiency and take more days to complete the shifting process. However, you can strategically maximize the daylight hours. Consider arranging additional lighting for loading and unloading in low-light conditions.
Utility Coordination
Because of shorter days, your move might fall outside the typical business hours. In this case, you may also have problems with the utility setup at your house. Hence, it is important to schedule utility services and other relevant connections at your new place even before your move. This also allows you to visit your new location and explore new environments in advance.
Off-Season Moving & Holiday Hustle
Winter in India also holds several festivals and holidays like Dussehra, Diwali, Chhath Puja, Bhai Dooj, Christmas, Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Republic Day, and New Year. If you plan your move tool close to winter holidays and festivals, you will face trouble finding a good moving company near you. Because of limited availability, you may have to bear a premium charge for hiring a professional moving service. However, you can avoid these consequences by avoiding your move plan too close to winter holidays and festivals.
Tips for a Successful Off-Season Move
By learning the benefits of moving off-season, you must be thinking about postponing your summer move. If this is true, you have just made the correct decision. Here are some tips that will help you accomplish a successful off-season move.
Plan Off-season Move Early
Early planning is key to a successful move, no matter, whether it is a peak-season move or an off-season move. As compared to the summer months, you will have more flexibility in the winter months. Despite this, you should start planning your move as early as possible. Early planning will allow you enough time to research on credibility of potential moving companies and choose the best one at an affordable price. Also, you will have enough time to schedule many things like utility disconnect/reconnection and change of address.
Compare Off-Season Moving Quotes
You have postponed your summer move and chosen an off-season move just because you want to save money. Well, comparing multiple quotes from different potential moving companies is another way that can save you a few more bucks. So, don’t book a moving company you meet first. Consider other options as well. Compare free quotes from at least the top 3 movers and packers. After evaluating all aspects of quotes including prices and services, choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.
Prepare for the Off-Season Weather Conditions
An off-season (winter) move may bring you into a situation where you face obstacles like rain, snow, and freezing weather conditions. So, be prepared for these elements of a winter move. Pack your goods and personal items using waterproof packing materials. Plus, invest in some protective gear to deal with winter conditions. Also, consider hiring a professional moving company in your city that specializes in handling moves during the off-season (winter) months.
Communicate Clearly with Movers
It is one of the best things that you can do to make your off-season or winter move successful. Keep your packers and movers informed about any potential challenges posed by the weather or limited daylight. Since movers are usually not occupied during the off-season, they may be ready to re-schedule your moving date. It is always best to ask your movers beforehand whether if can be flexible in timing due to some unfortunate weather conditions.
Keep Tea and Coffee Handy
Even if you have hired the best moving company that specializes in handling off-season or winter moves, you should be prepared for the cold conditions. It is a good idea to keep tea and coffee handy so that you can keep yourself warm. Also, offer tea or coffee to moves who will be packing, loading, and unloading your belongings. This is not mandatory but definitely a kind gesture.
Summing Up Off-Season Move
Moving peak-season or off-season? The decision should be yours. Although both moving seasons have their pros and cons, strategically planning a move for the off-season can be a more rewarding and cost-effective choice. So, postpone your peak-season move and schedule it for the off-season to enjoy a less stressful and comfortable move.