Researchers estimate more than 40 million people relocate annually in the United States, with around 65% of those moves taking place between May and September of each year. That is why those of us in the relocation business call this time of year “peak season.”

Some of the reasons that so many people opt to move during the spring and summer months are better weather conditions across much of the United States; most children are out of school for summer holidays; there are more options when selecting a new home due to higher real estate inventory; and, movers can take advantage of long weekends around Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day to complete their relocations.

However, with so many people choosing to move during this time it can become very busy for relocation firms. This means that movers should plan farther ahead and be more strategic about how and when they complete their relocations.

For advice on what movers need to know about relocating during this time of year, we asked the experts here at King Relocation Services, and here are six tips they offered up for ensuring a successful “peak season” move:

• 1) Create a timeline. As soon as you know you are going to be relocating, create a timeline and set goals and dates for accomplishing activities related to your move. These can include selling your home or notifying your landlord that you will be leaving; hiring a relocation company and reserving resources for the move; notifying utility companies and the post office of your upcoming move; arranging for childcare and/or pet care during the relocation; and, contacting a real estate professional in your new city to research homes for sale or rentals if you aren’t planning to purchase a new home.
• 2) Understand Your Requirements and Expectations. Before you even contact a moving company, know exactly what you are going to be moving and how you want to move it. For example, if you are downsizing to a smaller home and want to place items in storage, you’ll want to share that information with the moving company. Are you planning to relocate a vehicle? You’ll want to weigh the pros and cons of shipping the vehicle or driving it to your new location. See our recent blog post on this topic for more insights from our relocation experts.
• 3) Do your research. Ask friends, family and co-workers for referrals to relocation firms they know and trust. Check out the local Chamber of Commerce or Better Business Bureau to learn more about these companies and find out if there have been any complaints filed against them. Online resources such as Angie’s List, Yelp and other services also offer referrals and reviews that can be helpful in selecting a mover.
• 4) Set a Budget. Before you start contacting moving companies, you will also want to know how much you are willing to spend on the relocation. If your employer is paying for your move they will have provided you with a budget. If you are funding the relocation yourself, you’ll want to have a ball-park figure in mind to ensure that you don’t spend more than you can afford on your move.
• 5) Be Flexible. There is a chance that the moving company you select may not be able to accommodate your desired moving date, or that it could be more expensive due to high demand, especially if it is close to a major holiday. Be willing to consider other options such as sliding your moving date a few days either way, if needed. Additionally, relocation companies are often busier on the weekends because movers want to take advantage of time off work for local and/or short distance moves. If you can, schedule a mid-week move. As an added bonus, you may find there are cost-advantages and more resources available during this time.
• 6) Don’t hire “rogue” movers. The “best” deal in moving, isn’t always the “right” deal. Don’t put you, or your family at risk by letting just anyone relocate your household goods. Only the professionals will have the experience needed to quickly and efficiently relocate you, and your family.

At King Relocation Services, we know that moving can be a very stressful time for you and your family, and we are here to help with your next “peak season” (or otherwise) household move.

When you hire us, you can rest assured in knowing that we will help you make your next move, your best move. Our personal customer service coordinators are ready to help you plan your move from start-to-finish. We will make a site visit, ensure that you understand your rights and responsibilities as a mover, and provide clean, marked vehicles and friendly staff to execute your relocation.

And, if you do select what you think is the “best deal” for your relocation, and get taken by a “rogue mover,” we can help! As an agent of United Van Lines, we participate in a program called Move Rescue. Backed by a national network of attorneys, we help consumers recover their household goods from rogue movers, then we deliver them to your destination at no cost.

About King Companies
As an agent of United Van Lines, King Companies has the resources and expertise to be your “go-to” resource for all relocation needs. Whether you are relocating your household, moving an office, or are in need of logistics services, we strive to ensure that your next move will be the best you will ever make. Call us today at 800-854-3679 to learn more.

We hope that you will consider King Companies for your future relocation needs. To learn more about our services, visit is at www.kingcompaniesusa.com. And, don’t forget to connect with us on Twitter, Facebook and Google+ for our latest news and updates!