How to Choose A Moving Date

Although it may seem that packing and physically moving your belongings is the worst part about moving, coordinating the entire thing is no easy task (we recommend using a checklist). You can’t just pack up and move whenever you feel like it; there are factors to consider that lie outside your control. If you are renting, for example, you may not be able to move out until you fulfill your occupation obligation–typically for one year to avoid incurring penalties. If you are moving into another rental unit, you must wait until your next apartment is ready. If you are selling, you need a buyer to take your home off your hands at a reasonable price. Answer these questions to get a feel for how to time your move.

Are You Renting?

Leasing agreements come standard in any rental situation. It is vital to thoroughly understand what you have agreed to, particularly anything related to moving in and out. Each lease should come with a “release clause” which outlines your responsibilities as a tenant: how many weeks’ notice you must give when moving out, penalties for not giving enough notice, and the state of the apartment upon your departure. Usually, 30 days is the minimum notice you must provide when leaving your rental, with some places requiring 60 days.

Are You Selling Your House & Buying a New One?

It feels like walking on a tightrope, but you don’t want to be left without a home once your place sells. Buying a new home while your current home is on the market is the best way to avoid temporary homelessness. As with renting, the closing date of your new home determines when you can move in.

Starting a Job With a Specific Start Date?

If you are moving to start a new job, you might have to sacrifice moving within the restrictions of your leasing agreement if it requires you to start work on a specific day that’s right around the corner. If your new boss is not flexible on your start date, remember that starting on that day is more important than keeping true to a leasing agreement. After all, this move is only happening because of that job. If you can, negotiate your new job contract to cover your move. They may even be able to cover the costs of your first visit to the area so you can see what is available for you and your family in terms of housing.

Do Any Family Members Attend School?

When planning a residential move, it is important to remember school start dates. These are generally flexible for grade-school-aged children, but college students have the least flexibility. If possible, they should be on campus at the start of the new semester; if not, they should wait until the following semester to start their next term.

Did you answer “yes” to any of the above? Then you need more planning to determine the right date to move out of your current home and into your new one. First, decide which date is the least flexible. As with the new job example, if you must start on a specific date, everything else revolves around that date.

Settle on a Budget

When choosing a moving date, settling on a budget is essential. Moving can be costly, and not planning accordingly can stress the process. Before finalizing the moving date, it’s best to research and compare moving costs from different companies. This will help in setting a realistic budget for the move. Ensuring finances are in order before the moving date is also essential.

This will give you enough time to save for unexpected expenses and avoid financial strain during the move. Prioritizing the budget will also help adjust moving-related expenses, such as hiring movers, packing materials, and storage rentals. By settling on a budget well ahead of the moving date, one can avoid any last-minute financial mishaps and focus on a stress-free move.

Consider Your Least Flexible Date

When considering a moving date, it’s important to identify the least flexible date in your schedule. This could be a start date for a new job, a lease end date, or a prior commitment like a wedding or family event. Once you determine this date, everything else can revolve around it. Plan your move accordingly to ensure a smooth transition if you have a specific deadline. Keeping your least flexible date in mind will help you prioritize other move aspects, like budget, property availability, and family needs. By being mindful of this factor, you can make more informed decisions and ensure a successful move.

Consider School Schedules and Weather Conditions

When choosing a moving date, it’s essential to consider school schedules and weather conditions. If you have school-aged children, moving during the school year can disrupt their routines and affect their performance. Try to schedule your move during school breaks or the start of the summer holidays when your kids have more time to adjust to the new surroundings.

Moreover, weather conditions can also impact your move, especially if you’re relocating to a densely populated area or a location with harsh winters or rainy seasons. Monitor the weather forecast and choose a date that minimizes potential risks. Proper planning and preparation can help ensure a smooth and stress-free move for you and your family.

Think about Family Needs and Other Obligations

Another important consideration when choosing a moving date is family needs and other obligations. If you have children, you must consider their school schedule and timing the move to minimize disruptions to their education. Additionally, if you have a spouse, partner, or other family members with specific needs or requirements, you must consider those when selecting a moving date.

For example, if you have a family member with a disability, you’ll need to ensure that your new home is accessible and move at a time that allows for adequate adjustment. Or, if you have a custody agreement in place, you must select a move date that aligns with your obligations. By factoring in your family’s unique needs and obligations, you can plan a smooth, stress-free move accommodating everyone.

For more moving information, contact us at Agility Van Lines today. At 800-756-4340 for a FREE QUOTE.