When Is the Best Time to Move? A Complete Guide for Renters and Homeowners

Planning a move can be overwhelming. One of the most important, yet often overlooked, parts of the process is choosing the best time to move. While most people focus on packing and logistics, the actual date you choose to relocate can impact everything from your budget to your experience.

At Affinity Moving, we have helped hundreds of people move across Minneapolis and beyond. Based on our experience, the right timing can make your move faster, smoother, and even more affordable.

So, when is the best time to move? Let’s walk through the best seasons, months, days, and even times of day to make your relocation successful and stress-free.

Best Time to Move: Quick Summary

• Best Season: Fall or early spring
• Best Month to Move: October or November
• Best Time of Month: Mid-month (avoid beginning and end)
• Best Days to Move: Tuesday to Thursday
• Best Time of Day: Early morning

Why Does Timing Matter When Moving?

You might be wondering why it matters so much. Here's what changes based on when you move:

• Moving costs vary by season and demand
• Availability of moving companies, trucks, and crews fluctuates
• Weather conditions may affect safety and delays
• Lease terms or real estate closing dates can limit flexibility
• Traffic and parking are easier to manage at certain times of day and week

Choosing the best time to move can save you money, reduce stress, and make it easier to settle into your new space.

Best Season to Move

Fall (September to November)

Fall is often considered the best season to move. Here's why:

• Cooler temperatures make physical labor easier
• Moving companies have more open schedules
• School is in session, so fewer people are moving
• Rental and home prices may drop slightly after the summer surge

Spring (March to May)

Spring is another great option, especially if you want to avoid harsh winter conditions but still benefit from lower demand.

• Weather is improving
• Movers are less booked than in summer
• Families may begin preparing for summer transitions

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the most popular time to move, especially for families with kids out of school.

Pros:

• More daylight for longer moving hours
• Easier for families to relocate during school break
• More housing inventory on the market

Cons:

• Highest prices of the year
• Movers are booked far in advance
• Hot, humid weather in Minneapolis makes physical work more exhausting

Winter (December to February)

Winter is not ideal for everyone, but it may be the best time to move if you're on a tight budget.

• Lowest rates due to reduced demand
• Movers have flexible availability
• Rental deals may be easier to find

But keep in mind the risk of snow, ice, and delayed schedules due to weather.

Best Month to Move

So, what is the best month to move if you can choose?

We recommend October or November. These months offer the ideal combination of:

• Lower demand
• Cooler weather
• End-of-year rental incentives
• Less competition for housing

You’ll avoid the summer rush and still miss the coldest winter months. Spring months like April and May are also good alternatives.

When Is the Best Time to Move Into an Apartment?

If you're moving into an apartment, your timing considerations may be a bit different.

Best Months for Apartment Deals

• November through February: Off-season deals, lower rent, and more room to negotiate lease terms.
• May through August: More apartment listings, but more competition and higher prices.

If budget is your priority, the best time to move into an apartment is between late fall and early spring. Landlords are more likely to offer move-in specials during this slower season.

Best Time of the Month to Move

Most leases end at the end of the month, which means movers are busier during the first and last weeks. If you can:

• Aim for the middle of the month, around days 10 to 20
• You’ll get better rates and more scheduling options
• There’s less demand for elevators, parking, and services in apartment buildings

Best Day of the Week to Move

If your schedule allows, avoid weekends. Most people prefer to move on Saturdays or Sundays because they are off work. This increases demand, traffic, and costs.

The best days to move are usually Tuesday through Thursday. Movers are less busy, traffic is lighter, and you may get a lower price.

Best Time of Day to Move

The earlier, the better.

Moving in the early morning offers several advantages:

• Cooler temperatures in summer
• More daylight to complete the job
• Extra time to unpack or deal with unexpected delays
• Lower traffic volume in residential areas

Affinity Moving typically schedules morning moves starting at 8:00 AM, which allows your day to stay on track and reduces fatigue.

Factors That May Affect the Best Time to Move for You

While we’ve covered the general rules, personal circumstances will always play a role in determining your best timing.

Ask yourself:

• Are you working around a lease or closing date?
• Are you trying to avoid harsh weather?
• Do you need to align with a school calendar or job schedule?
• Is budget your top concern?

Affinity Moving works with you to create a move plan that balances your priorities, timeline, and costs.

When Should You Book Movers?

No matter when you plan to move, booking early helps you:

• Secure your ideal move date
• Avoid last-minute scheduling issues
• Compare rates and services
• Coordinate packing and storage services in advance

Recommended Booking Timeline

• Peak season (June–August): Book 6–8 weeks in advance
• Off-season: Book 3–4 weeks in advance

Tips for Planning Around the Best Time to Move

1. Get multiple quotes early to compare movers
2. Be flexible with your move date to secure the best rates
3. Watch the weather forecast if moving during winter
4. Avoid holiday weekends, which add traffic and limit availability
5. Start packing early, regardless of when you're moving

Final Thoughts: When Is the Best Time to Move?

There is no universal answer, but here is a quick guide to help you decide:

• Want the best deal? Move in October or November, mid-month, mid-week
• Need apartment flexibility? Try a winter move-in
• Avoiding stress? Book in the off-season and move early in the day
• Following school schedules? Plan a summer move, but book early

At the end of the day, the best time to move is when it works for your schedule and goals. Affinity Moving is here to make your move simple, professional, and stress-free any time of year.

Call Affinity Moving to Schedule Your Move

Whether you're moving this month or six months from now, Affinity Moving has your back. We offer reliable, full-service moving solutions in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Edina, Bloomington, and nearby areas.