Are you getting ready to downsize into a new home and feeling overwhelmed by the process? We’ll take a look at four steps you can take to make downsizing and moving into your new home a breeze.

When you decide that booking movers are the best stress-free option, you will begin to research local moving companies. You are hiring people to help you with your move, but you are also trusting them with your belongings. It is important to be sure of what company you want to book with. Once you find that company, you may ask yourself when is the best time to call and schedule your move. This blog will give you a timeline for when you should be booking your move. When are you moving? Moving companies often have set schedules for when they book their jobs. These can vary with each moving company, but the standard is half-day moves and full-day moves. They also have a set amount of movers/drivers and box trucks. If you are moving during a busy season, this can affect what type of availability they have. Spring and summer time is the busiest season for most moving companies. This season can start in April and begin to slow down in October, so it is important to know when you are planning on moving. If you are moving in the spring/summer time, most moving companies book out 2-3 weeks in advance. Even for smaller half-day moves, it is oftentimes hard to fit into the company’s schedule on short notice during the busy season. In the fall and winter, the standard for scheduling your move is around 1-2 weeks in advance to ensure you get your desired day and time. How far are you moving? Long-distance moves can require more time and supplies. Depending on the size of your home and how many belongings you need moved, this can require multiple movers, trucks, or even days. Some moving companies are not permitted for long-distance moves, so calling or visiting moving companies beforehand is important. Long-distance moves generally require in-person estimates, to ensure they are giving you the most accurate estimated cost for the move and to see how many trucks and days they will need. How much will you need to move? Having a lot of belongings can result in needing multiple trucks, movers, and days. It is helpful to schedule an in-person estimate so the moving company can give you a proper quote. MAM recommends you call at least 2-3 weeks in advance so we can ensure that you are able to get on our schedule, especially during the busy season. It is important that you ask yourself these questions when planning your move. This ensures that you will get your desired time, date, and moving company. Remember that for most companies nothing is permanent, so if you book early, you can always reschedule with an appropriate notice. Check out our “Preparing for Moving Day” blog for more information and helpful tips on moving!