New York state is one of the most famous places on the planet — home to both the iconic NYC and the breathtaking Niagra Falls. With stunning natural scenery across the state and some of the highest-ranking public schools in the country, it is an excellent place to live and raise a family.
If you’re planning to relocate to or from New York, it’s smart to consider the time of your move. Timing can affect everything from how smoothly your interstate relocation goes to your moving company’s rates and availability. Read on to learn about the considerations of each season to help you set your moving date.
New York experiences all four seasons, from snowy winters to hot summers. Each season has its advantages and challenges when moving.
Spring is a popular time for New York relocations. As the days get longer and sunnier, this season brings mild weather that is perfect for hauling boxes and furniture. However, it can also come with some rain and the odd snowstorm, potentially disrupting your moving plans.
May marks the start of peak moving season in New York and the rest of the country. Because a lot of people tend to relocate at this time of year, prices for interstate moving companies will likely be higher. As the demand spikes, finding availability with your movers might also be tricky.
Relocating in early spring will allow you to beat the rush before the busy season begins, but a late spring move will offer better weather.
From June to August, the moving season is in full swing. If you don’t mind hot and humid summers, this is considered one of the best times to move from New York or to the state because:
However, moving during this season can be pricey. Rates can be 30% higher compared to New York’s off-season rates. In addition to being prepared for higher estimates, you’ll also want to lock in your dates with your moving company well in advance — summer is the busiest time of the year for them, meaning limited availability.
Between balancing school schedules and packing up an entire family’s worth of items and furniture, a seamless move requires careful coordination. If ease and convenience are your top priority, opt for an early summer relocation when your kids are on break.
Fall offers a balance between a lower moving demand and more comfortable weather, making it a contender for the best time to move to New York or relocate from the state. Thanks to cooler temperatures and more moving company availability, this season can offer a hassle-free move.
October is officially the start of the off-peak season, so you’ll likely enjoy reduced moving rates. Plus, many companies offer discounts to attract more customers as moving activity starts slowing down. However, the later your moving date, the fewer hours of daylight you’ll have to complete your move.
Additionally, this season comes with some rain and strong wind in certain regions, which can complicate things on your moving day. To benefit from the lower costs but experience more balanced weather, consider relocating in the early fall.
If you aren’t thrilled about the idea of a winter move, you’re not alone. Many people avoid moving during this season because:
However, relocating during the winter months comes with some major perks. Because December through February makes up New York’s moving off-season, you can save a lot of money.
January is the perfect time to relocate for those looking to keep their expenses in check. This is the state’s coldest month, with the highest chances of snow and ice, so moving rates are typically low. Plus, if you move after the holiday season, companies will have greater availability, making securing your ideal dates much easier.
New York’s weather can be unpredictable, with changing patterns in rainfall and more frequent extreme weather events catching the state off guard. There’s always a chance that you’ll need to change your plans, such as postponing your move until the weather improves, even if you’ve scheduled your move during the peak season.
Working with a reliable moving company, like Corrigan Moving Systems, is a must — especially if you’re considering relocating during the quieter fall and winter months. Your moving team will carefully monitor road conditions and weather reports to minimize disruptions and help keep your belongings safe. If the weather takes a turn for the worse, they’ll keep you in the loop and make alternate arrangements.
Just like choosing the right time of the year, deciding which moving company you hire can shape how efficient and stress-free your interstate move turns out to be. While it is always recommended to go with a name you know or get a referral from friends, family or your real estate agent, consider the following factors when selecting a company:
Once you think you’ve found some good options, ask each company the following four questions before finalizing your decision:
If the answer to any of these questions is a “no,” it might be a sign that you’re dealing with a suspicious company or are potentially being targeted by a moving scam.
Corrigan Moving Systems is one of the most trusted moving companies in New York and has helped families with interstate relocations since 1929. Along with providing long-distance relocation services, we offer full-service packing assistance and secure storage solutions. Regardless of the season, your belongings will be in good hands — literally and figuratively.
To learn more about our offerings or schedule a free in-home or virtual estimate, contact us today!