If you’re looking to save money on your next move, when you move can be just as important as how you move. Moving costs fluctuate throughout the year based on demand, and choosing the right season, month, and even day of the week can reduce your moving expenses by hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars.
In this guide, you’ll learn the cheapest time of year to move, why prices change, and practical tips for getting the best value from professional movers.
The Cheapest Time of Year to Move
For most people, the least expensive time to move is:
Late September through April
This period is considered the moving industry’s off-season because demand is generally lower.
During these months, moving companies often have:
- More availability
- More flexible scheduling
- Lower rates
- Greater willingness to accommodate preferred moving dates
If your schedule allows, planning your move during the off-season can be one of the easiest ways to reduce costs.
The Most Expensive Time to Move
The busiest, and typically most expensive, time to move is:
May through early September
This peak moving season coincides with:
- Summer vacations
- School breaks
- College moves
- Home buying season
- Better weather in many regions
Higher demand often means:
- Increased moving rates
- Limited scheduling options
- Earlier booking requirements
If you must move during the summer, reserve your movers as early as possible.
Cheapest Months to Move
Generally, these months offer the best pricing:
- October
- November
- January
- February
Demand is usually lower after the busy summer season and before spring home sales begin.
Keep in mind that winter weather in some regions may occasionally affect scheduling.
Most Expensive Months to Move
These months often have the highest moving prices:
- May
- June
- July
- August
June and July are often the busiest months of the year for professional movers.
The Cheapest Day of the Week to Move
If you have flexibility, consider moving:
- Tuesday
- Wednesday
- Thursday
Weekday moves often have:
- Lower demand
- Better availability
- Shorter scheduling windows
Weekend moves are generally more popular, which can lead to higher prices.
The Cheapest Time of the Month to Move
The middle of the month is often the most affordable time to relocate.
Try scheduling your move between:
The 10th and the 20th of the month
Many leases begin or end on the first or last day of the month, creating higher demand during those periods.
Why Do Moving Prices Change?
Moving companies adjust pricing based on demand.
When demand increases, companies often have:
- Fewer available trucks
- Busier schedules
- Higher labor costs
When demand decreases, companies may offer more competitive pricing to fill their schedules.
Other Factors That Affect Moving Costs
Even if you move during the off-season, several other factors influence your final price.
Distance
Long-distance moves generally cost more than local moves because they require additional fuel, labor, and transportation time.
Size of Your Home
Larger homes require:
- More movers
- Larger trucks
- Longer loading and unloading times
Reducing the size of your shipment through decluttering can lower your moving costs.
Professional packing adds convenience but also increases your total bill.
Packing your own:
- Clothing
- Books
- Kitchen items
- Decorations
can significantly reduce expenses.
Accessibility
Additional labor charges may apply if your move involves:
- Stairs
- Elevators
- Long hallways
- Limited parking
- Difficult truck access
Always mention these details when requesting estimates.
How Much Can You Save by Moving During the Off-Season?
While savings vary by location and demand, many people find that moving during slower periods offers:
- Lower moving rates
- Greater scheduling flexibility
- More available appointment times
The exact savings depend on your location, moving company, and the type of move you’re planning.
Tips for Getting the Lowest Moving Price
Book Early
Reserve your movers 4–8 weeks before your moving date.
Booking early often provides:
- Better pricing
- More availability
- Greater flexibility
Declutter Before Packing
Moving fewer belongings reduces:
- Labor
- Truck space
- Packing materials
- Transportation costs
Sell or donate items you no longer need before moving day.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Request estimates from several licensed moving companies.
Compare:
- Total price
- Included services
- Insurance options
- Additional fees
The lowest estimate isn’t always the best overall value.
Pack Yourself
Packing your own boxes can save several hundred dollars.
Use towels, blankets, and clothing to protect fragile belongings instead of purchasing extra packing materials.
Be Flexible
If your moving date is flexible, ask moving companies about:
- Off-peak pricing
- Mid-week availability
- Alternative pickup dates
Even a small scheduling adjustment may lower your overall cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest month to move?
October, November, January, and February are often among the least expensive months because moving demand is typically lower.
Are weekday moves cheaper?
Yes. Tuesday through Thursday are often less expensive than Friday, Saturday, or Sunday because demand is lower.
Is it more expensive to move at the end of the month?
Usually. The last few days of the month are among the busiest moving periods because many leases begin or end then.
How far in advance should I book movers?
For the best pricing and availability, book your movers 4–8 weeks before your moving date. If you’re moving during the summer, booking even earlier is recommended.
The Bottom Line
The cheapest time of year to move is generally late September through April, when moving demand is lower.
You can often reduce your moving costs even further by:
- Moving during the middle of the month
- Scheduling your move on a weekday
- Booking movers early
- Decluttering before packing
- Comparing multiple moving quotes
Choosing the right moving date can make a noticeable difference in your overall relocation budget while giving you more flexibility and availability.
Planning Your Move?
Bellhop offers flexible local and long-distance moving services with convenient scheduling options throughout the year.
Whether you’re moving during peak season or looking to take advantage of off-season availability, Bellhop can help you plan an efficient and affordable move.
Get your free moving quote today.
Call +1 (833) 673-2177 or click here to get started.
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