The Best Time of Year to Move if You’re Moving to or From Michigan

Michigan — a state with nicknames as unique as its residents. Are you thinking of moving to the Mitten State? Or are you a Michigander planning to leave the Water-Winter Wonderland? The timing of your move can impact price, availability and planning.

This guide covers the pros and cons of moving to or from Michigan in each season. Pull up a chair, grab a Coney dog and let’s dive in!

When Is Peak Michigan Moving Season?

Like the rest of the country, summer is the busiest moving season in Michigan. For parents, the school break lets them move without disrupting their kids’ schedules. Plus, many people prefer to move in warm weather, and leases often end in summer, which means more housing availability. 

Summer: A Peak Time to Move 

Popular opinion will tell you that summer is the best time to move to Michigan. Summer lasts from June to August, and the days are warm and humid. You might also see the odd thunderstorm.

Pros of Moving in Summer

Moving during peak season offers:

• Better weather: Michigan summers offer warmer temperatures with longer daylight hours. The pleasant weather makes it more comfortable to pack, load and unload.
• School breaks: Moving during school vacation minimizes disruptions. It lets kids adjust to their new environment without the stress of academic responsibility.
• Competitive real estate: Summer is peak time in the real estate industry. With more houses on the market and leases coming to an end, you can find your perfect home!

Cons of Moving in Summer 

When demand for moving services increases, so do the costs. Whether you hire professional movers or rent a truck, expect to pay more during summer. Moving companies’ schedules get booked up weeks or even months in advance, so you could miss out on your preferred dates. Additionally, while sunny weather has benefits for moving, it also has its challenges. The physical exertion of moving heavy boxes in the heat can lead to dehydration or fatigue.

Top Summer Moving Tips

If you have your heart set on moving during summer, these tips can make the process easier:

1. Plan ahead: Book movers well in advance to secure the services you need. Consider booking two months before your move if possible.
2. Miss the heat: Schedule your move in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.
3. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the move and take breaks when needed. 
4. Budget more: Factor in the higher cost of moving during peak season. A realistic idea of expenses can help with the planning.

Winter: A Cost-Effective Time to Move 

Michigan winters have something of a reputation. While the winter wonderland is breathtaking, it can make moving more challenging. Weigh these pros and cons to decide if winter is the best time to move to Michigan.

Pros of Moving in Winter

While it may not be the most obvious choice, a winter move does have benefits. Because of low demand, moving companies may offer discounted rates to attract business. If you’re planning a large move, this can save you a significant amount of money. Plus, with fewer people moving during winter, movers have more availability. You can pick the dates that suit you!

Cons of Moving in Winter

While it can save you money, relocating in winter has disadvantages:

• Harsh weather: Freezing temperatures, snow, ice and rain make winter moves tricky. Slippery walkways or dangerous driving conditions increase safety risks.
• Shorter daylight hours: Shorter days mean less time to load and unload. When daylight savings time ends in November, it can start getting dark as early as 5 p.m.
• Extra preparation: A winter move takes more comprehensive planning. Preparation includes waterproofing your belongings, salting walkways and protecting floors. 

Top Winter Moving Tips

The lure of cost savings can appeal to the budget-conscious. These tips can help you make the most of a winter move:

1. Preparation is key: Invest in waterproof covers to protect your boxes and furniture. Clear walkways of snow or ice, and salt the surfaces to prevent slipping.
2. Move during daylight: Schedule your move in the middle of the day so you have plenty of time before it gets dark.
3. Arrange backup dates: Flexibility is an important part of moving in winter. Pick a few alternative dates in case a snowstorm or severe weather hits.
4. Hire movers: Leave winter moves to the professionals. Choose a reliable moving company with experience in handling tough weather conditions.

Spring: A Mild Time to Move 

Michigan comes alive with dazzling flower displays and fun activities in spring. The chilly winter temperatures fade in late March or early April.

Pros of Moving in Spring

The season of renewal has advantages when planning a move. Spring strikes a balance between freezing winter and scorching summer temperatures. Plus, longer daylight hours mean more time for your move. Since it falls before peak season, moving in spring can also be more cost-effective. 

Cons of Moving in Spring

Along with the benefits, moving in spring has some disadvantages:

• Unpredictable weather: Unexpected spring showers, heat waves or cold snaps can cause chaos. 
• School obligations: Moving in spring means transferring your kids to a new school before the year ends. A spring move can disrupt their schedule or events like spring break and graduation. 
• Rising costs: You might notice increased prices toward the end of spring to prepare for summer. 

Top Spring Moving Tips

Spring can be the best time to move from Michigan if you follow these strategies:

1. Check forecasts: Set up weather alerts on your phone so you know what to expect, and keep waterproof covers handy. 
2. Book ahead: Confirm professional moving services in advance. 
3. Consider school schedules: Plan around any school commitments. If your kids will join a new school, coordinate with their teachers for a smooth transition. 

Fall: A Well-Balanced Time to Move 

Between late September and November, Michigan’s natural landscape bursts into shades of red, gold and orange. Moving in the fall can provide a sweet spot with cooperative weather and better prices.

Pros of Moving in the Fall

Off-season moving in Michigan offers many benefits, such as:

• Lower rates: As it falls outside the peak season, you may enjoy more affordable moving services. 
• Comfortable weather: Temperatures are pleasant and could still be summer-like in September. Moving during this time avoids the winter cold and summer humidity.
• Increased availability: You enjoy flexible dates since movers have more open schedules. 

Cons of Moving in the Fall

While it’s a well-balanced time of year to move, fall does have some considerations. Later in the fall, shorter days mean fewer daylight hours to move. The weather can change, from unseasonably warm days to sudden temperature drops. Moving in the fall can also disrupt the start of the school year. Your kids may need more time to adjust to a new environment and routine. 

Top Fall Moving Tips

Fall in love with Michigan in the fall by embracing these tips:

1. Account for shorter days: Schedule your move during daylight hours to avoid unpacking in the dark. 
2. Mind the weather: Keep updated on changing weather conditions. You may need to change plans to accommodate rain or drastic temperature changes. 
3. Understand school schedules: Coordinate the move to minimize disruption to your kids’ school routines.

Corrigan Moving Systems: Your All-Weather Professional Move Partners

The best time to move from Michigan (or to it) depends on your unique needs and preferences. Partnering with moving professionals simplifies the process in any season. Corrigan Moving Systems has over nine decades of experience relocating happy customers. Our professional crew handles every aspect of your move. From the first consultation until the last box offloads, you can be sure of exceptional service. 

Let us create the moving experience you deserve! Contact us online for a free virtual or in-home consultation, or call us at 1-800-267-7442.