Summer is without a doubt the most popular time to move. Moving can be very stressful on its own, but factor in the sweltering New York City heat and you can find yourself completely overwhelmed very quickly. For that reason, it is important that you do extra planning for this move to keep it as stress-free as possible. Follow these ten ideas to make your summer move a breeze.
1. Plan Ahead
Planning is one of the most important steps in any move, but if you’re moving on a busy, hot summer day, you’re going to need to be even more planful. Check out our suggestions for things to do in the month before you move to get the ball rolling. Get the process started even earlier than a month before your move. Also, check out our moving day checklist. These should help you get the planning process going.
2. Research Moving Companies
Be sure to read online reviews for a moving company before you hire them. Companies can pay extra to come up as the first search result online, but this doesn’t mean they are the best. Sometimes, you can relate with the perspective of other online reviewers, which can be helpful in determining if the company is appropriate for your unique situation.
3. Hydrate
Passing out from heat exhaustion is a real possibility in the hot summer months, especially when you’re doing a strenuous activity such as moving. For this reason it is imperative that you keep tons of water handy. It can be a replenishing lifesaver in the summer sun.
4. Protect Your Valuables
Protecting your valuables is a major part of moving successfully. Factoring in the heat is important, especially for heat-sensitive belongings. If you’re packing anything that can be warped by the heat, or melt onto other valuables, you might want to keep it somewhere air-conditioned or cool, such as a car or a friend’s apartment.
5. Start Your Day Early
It is usually cooler in the morning, so this is a great way to avoid the overwhelming heat of the midday sun. It’s also a great way to beat traffic from other people moving. Remember, this is the busiest time of the year to move. The early bird gets the first worm.
6. Turn On Your A/C Beforehand
Whether you’ve got central A/C, a portable A/C, or a window unit, turn it on a couple hours before you move in so that you arrive to a cool, comfortable apartment. If you don’t plan on having any A/C in your apartment, bring a bunch of fans and open all the windows. Keep the air flowing to keep yourself cool.
7. Wear Sunscreen
You may think that you don’t need sunscreen for move-in day, since you’re going to be spending time moving inside through hallways and your new apartment. The truth is you don’t know what the sun will be like that day, and you’re going to spend at least some of your time in the hot sun. Keep yourself safe and use something that is 30 SPF or higher, and is resistant to water and sweat.
8. Bring a Cooler with Ice
Something you won’t regret doing is bringing along a cooler with ice and water. You can use it to chill water bottles and towels, which are super helpful for cooling you off. If all else fails and you’re still overwhelmed by the heat, dunk your head or hands in the ice water. You’ll be cooled off pretty quick. Just be cautious if you’re prone to severe headaches or migraines.
9. Dress Appropriately
The last thing you want to wear on a hot move-in day is a pair of skinny jeans that have no range of motion. It’s difficult to imagine a more uncomfortable scenario. Be sure to dress in clothing that is light and allows you to move with a full range of motion comfortably. Gym clothes are typically perfect for this.
10. Hire Professional Movers
At the end of the day, you want a moving company that has experience moving in a variety of difficult conditions. The summer is the most busy time of year for Metropolis Moving, so most of our experience involves surviving and thriving on hot summer days. We have a fantastic reputation for being friendly, affordable, and professional. Get a quote for your move today to get started.
