Many underestimate how much their choice of month, week, or even day can impact availability, pricing, and the overall experience. Many underestimate how much their choice of month, week, or even day can impact availability, pricing, and the overall experience.
Whether you’re moving with your family, starting college, or beginning a new job, understanding seasonal trends can help you plan more efficiently.
Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, but without the right preparation, especially during peak season, it can quickly turn stressful. Each year, millions of people choose to move during the warmer months, creating a surge in demand that defines the peak moving season.
In Edmonton, the moving season follows the same pattern. Reputable Edmonton moving companies like ASR Moving often book weeks or months in advance during this high-demand period.
Without early preparation, you might face limited availability or increased rates. That’s why understanding the dynamics of the peak season is key to a successful move.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this high-demand period: when it occurs, why it’s so popular, the challenges it can present, and—most importantly—how to navigate it with smart planning and practical tips.
What is the peak moving season?
Peak moving season refers to the months between May and September when the largest number of residential moves take place in Canada and the U.S. This period typically sees a spike in relocations due to favorable weather, school holidays, and increased activity in the housing and rental markets.
Within this range, June, July, and August are by far the busiest. Moving companies in Edmonton to Calgary and across the country experience their highest demand during these months, which can result in higher costs and tighter schedules.
If you’re considering a summer move, especially in or around Edmonton, it’s essential to plan. Booking a moving company during this time requires advance notice due to limited availability and increased rates.
Why summer is the peak season
School Vacation
Families with school-age children often move in the summer to avoid disrupting the school year. Changing schools mid-semester can be stressful. Summer offers a natural break, giving kids time to adjust and parents time to handle school registration and supplies.
Favorable weather
Summer weather is more predictable and safer for moving. Unlike winter, there’s no snow or ice to create hazards. Longer daylight hours also give more time for loading and unloading safely.
Real estate activity
The housing market is busiest in summer. More homes are listed, and buyers are more active. Properties look better in natural light, and blooming yards boost curb appeal. This makes it easier to buy and sell in the same season.
Lease cycles
Many leases end around May or June, especially in cities and college towns. This leads to a spike in moves. Summer is also when students graduate or start internships, making it a convenient time for transitions.
Job transitions
Many companies hire between June and September. New hires, especially graduates, use summer to relocate before starting work. Families also prefer moving now so children can start school in their new home city on time.
But summer’s popularity comes at a cost
High demand drives up prices for local movers, trucks, and packing supplies. Booking late can mean fewer options. Heat can make moving uncomfortable or risky, and end-of-month traffic slows things down. Planning and staying flexible are key.
Challenges of moving during peak season
Higher costs
Demand spikes lead to increased prices for Beaumont movers, rental trucks, packing materials, and even fuel. During summer, moving companies are in high demand, and that drives prices up. You might also face surge pricing or premium fees for weekend or last-minute bookings. Budget-conscious families could find themselves paying significantly more than during off-peak months.
Limited availability
If you wait too long, you may not find your preferred moving company or rental equipment. Popular moving dates like the end of the month or long weekends are booked months in advance. Without early planning, you might be forced to hire less reputable companies or settle for inconvenient time slots.
Scheduling issues
It can be difficult to coordinate lease start/work schedules. Balancing move-in dates with lease expirations and job start dates can be tricky. A delay of even a day may mean paying extra for temporary lodging or storage. Planning is essential to avoid overlaps and unnecessary stress.
Weather-related problems
Hot days can cause fatigue, heat-related illnesses, or damage electronics left in trucks too long. Extreme heat isn’t just uncomfortable can be dangerous. Movers working in high temperatures face increased risks of heat exhaustion. Sensitive items like electronics, candles, and perishable goods may also suffer damage if not handled properly.
Traffic congestion
Residential areas may be packed with other moving trucks, especially at the end or start of the month. This can lead to delays in loading and unloading, blocked driveways, or limited parking access. In dense neighborhoods or apartment complexes, scheduling conflicts with other moves can slow things down further.
Less flexibility
Need to change your date? Movers are likely booked, and delays can be costly. Unlike off-season moves, where rescheduling might be easier, summer dates are rigid. If something unexpected arises-like a closing delay or illness-you may face rescheduling fees or even lose your deposit.
15 Expert Tips for Moving During Peak Season
1. Book early
Reserve your mover 6-8 weeks ahead, or up to 12 weeks for long-distance relocations. Peak season moves—typically between May and September—book up fast. Waiting until the last minute can leave you with fewer options and higher prices. Booking early gives you the best chance of securing your preferred moving company, date, and even discounts.
2. Avoid peak days
Opt for a mid-week, mid-month move (Tues-Thurs, 2nd or 3rd week of the month). Weekends and month-ends are when demand peaks, and prices often rise accordingly. Moving during the middle of the week and month can help you avoid road congestion and elevator wait times in apartment buildings.
Movers are also more likely to be available, and you’ll often receive better attention and service. If you can take time off work mid-week, it’s a strategic move that can save both money and stress.
3. Compare quotes
Get at least three written estimates from licensed, insured, and positively reviewed moving companies. Not all movers are created equal, and pricing can vary significantly between companies. By comparing multiple quotes, you can identify fair market rates, spot red flags, and negotiate better terms. Make sure each estimate includes a complete inventory list and clear terms- avoid vague or verbal agreements.
4. Declutter before packing
Donate, sell, or toss items you no longer need- less stuff means lower cost. Every item you move adds to the weight and time of your relocation, especially if you’re being charged by volume or weight.
Decluttering not only reduces costs but also makes unpacking easier in your new home. Set aside time a few weeks before your move to sort through clothing, furniture, electronics, and documents.
5. Pack smart
Label boxes by room and color-code them for easy unloading and unpacking. Efficient packing services save time during both loading and unloading. Use systems-such as different colored labels or tape for each room-to help movers know where things belong.
Mark each box with its contents and destination room. This reduces confusion, speeds up the move, and minimizes the risk of items being lost or damaged during unpacking.
6. Secure your valuables
Keep critical items like IDs, passports, meds, jewelry, and laptops with you, not in the truck. Essential items should always travel with you.
If delays, misplaced boxes, or theft occur, having access to important documents and medication is crucial. Consider packing a personal carry-on bag or backpack with your essentials, especially for long-distance moves. Backup your devices and keep chargers on hand so you’re not left without access to key information or tools.
7. Stay hydrated
Wear breathable clothes, take breaks, and drink water regularly, especially if lifting boxes. Moving is physically demanding, especially in the summer heat. It’s easy to overlook your needs while rushing, but dehydration and fatigue can lead to injury.
Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, use sunscreen when outdoors, and rest often. Keep a cooler nearby with water bottles and light snacks to maintain energy throughout the day.
8. Reserve parking/elevators
Ask your new and current building management if you need to book elevators or curb space. Some buildings require advance notice to use service elevators or assign loading zones. Failing to reserve these can lead to fines or delays.
Contact building management at least a week before your move to confirm requirements and book time slots. In urban areas, consider applying for temporary parking permits to avoid tickets or towing.
9. Make a moving day kit
Pack snacks, charges, water, paper towels, basic tools, toilet paper, and a change of clothes. A dedicated moving kit saves you from digging through boxes for essentials.
Include cleaning supplies, quick snacks, personal hygiene items, and small tools like a screwdriver or box cutter.
Keep this kit easily accessible- ideally in your car- so you can grab what you need without searching through packed boxes.
10. Use moving apps
Sortly, MoverAdvisor, and TaskRabbit help track inventory, schedule tasks, and find last-minute help. These apps can significantly reduce the chaos of moving, especially during Edmonton’s busy summer months when coordination is key.
For example, Sortly lets you photograph and label box contents so you know exactly where everything is.
MoverAdvisor helps you compare reviews and availability for local Edmonton moving companies, ensuring you pick a trusted provider.
TaskRabbit is useful for finding local help with heavy lifting, furniture assembly, or final clean-up, especially if you’re short on time or need an extra hand in a pinch.
11. Watch for scams
Check mover credentials at FMCSA.gov and avoid paying large cash deposits.
Unfortunately, moving scams still occur, especially during peak season. Some fraudsters pose as movers and disappear with deposits or personal belongings. To avoid this, always verify the company’s registration and insurance through official databases.
Reputable Edmonton moving companies will happily provide a written contract, detailed pricing, and proof of insurance.
Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, and never pay large amounts in cash up front. A reliable Edmonton mover will offer transparent quotes and outline your responsibilities clearly.
12. Consider portable storage
PODS, U-Pack, and similar services offer flexible storage and delivery options. If your move-in and move-out dates don’t line up, portable storage can bridge the gap.
Companies like PODS allow you to pack at your own pace and then have the container delivered to your new location when you’re ready. This is especially helpful for Edmonton residents moving between neighborhoods or downsizing from larger homes.
Some Edmonton moving companies even partner with portable storage providers or offer their mobile storage solutions, giving you greater flexibility if timelines change unexpectedly.
13. Get proper insurance
Ask about full-value protection or third-party insurance coverage. Basic mover liability usually covers only a small portion of an item’s value, often based on weight. If something valuable breaks or goes missing, you could be left without proper compensation.
Ask your Edmonton moving company if they offer full-value items-like artwork, antiques, or electronics-extra coverage is a smart investment. Always review the policy details to know what’s included and excluded.
Proper coverage brings peace of mind, especially for long-distance or high-value moves.
14. Plan for pets/kids
Arrange child or pet care on moving day to keep them safe and out of the way. Moving day is fast-paced, with open doors, stacked boxes, and heavy equipment. It’s not a safe or calm environment for kids or animals.
Ask a friend, family member, or sitter to he lp, or consider Edmonton’s local pet boarding and daycare options.
This allows you and your movers to focus without distractions or safety concerns. A smooth, safe more benefits everyone-including your four-legged or little family members.
15. Have a backup plan
Prepare for delays, bad weather, or last-minute changes. Edmonton weather can shift quickly—heat waves, heavy rain, or even early snowfall can delay your plans. Have essentials like toiletries, chargers, and a change of clothes packed separately in case you’re delayed or need to spend the night elsewhere.
Ask your Edmonton moving company about their policies for rescheduling, truck issues, or staffing shortages. Reputable movers will have contingency procedures, backup equipment, and clear communication in place to handle the unexpected.
Bonus: Common mistakes to avoid
Underestimating moving time
Moves often take longer than expected. Always plan extra time for delays like traffic, weather, or elevator access. Rushing leads to stress and overlooked details.
Not labelling boxes
Unlabelled boxes slow down unpacking and increase the risk of lost items. Clearly label each box with the room name and key contents. Color-coding also helps movers unload efficiently..
Packing too late
Last-minute packing creates chaos and increases the risk of damage or forgotten items. Start packing non-essentials 2-3 weeks in advance to stay organized.
Ignoring contracts
Always read your mover’s estimate and insurance terms carefully. Watch for hidden fees, cancellation policies, and coverage limits. Never sign anything unclear.
Forgetting utilities
Set up water, electricity, gas, and internet at your new address before moving day. Overlapping service dates ensure you’re not left without essentials.
Off-season vs. Peak season: Pros and Cons
| Factor | Peak Season (May-Sept) | Off-Season (Oct-Apr) |
| Cost | Higher (20-30% more). Due to high demand, prices for movers, trucks, and supplies increase. | Lower. Many moving companies offer discounts or promotions during slower months. |
| Availability | Low. Top moving companies and rental trucks often get booked weeks in advance. | High. Easier to secure your preferred moving date, time, and crew. |
| Weather | Warm and ideal. Fewer risks of delays due to snow or heavy rain. | Risk of snow and rain. Weather can impact driving conditions and schedules. |
| School impact | No disruption. Families with children can relocate during the summer break | Mid-year disruption. Moving may interrupt a child’s education and social life. |
| Mover workload | High volume. Movers may be stretched thin and have tighter schedules. | More flexible and focused. Movers can often provide more personalized service. |
| Daylight | Longer. More daylight hours make loading and unloading easier and safer. | Shorter days. Moves may take longer or require extra indoor lighting. |
Conclusion
Peak moving season comes with advantages- good weather, school breaks, and flexible housing options. But it also means higher demand, limited availability, and increased costs. If you’re planning to move between May and September, start early, get organized, and use the strategies outlined here to stay ahead. By understanding the season’s pros and cons, you can minimize stress and maximize success on moving day.
