Timing your exit: When is the best time to move?

People often tend to move during spring and summer and most removalist companies report that these are the busiest times for them, so if you are planning to relocate over the warmer months it would be a good idea to start sourcing removalists well in advance to ensure they can move you at the time that suits.

The most practical times to move

Aside from the advantages of moving house in fairer weather, there are some times that are more practical than others for most people. Popular times tend to coincide with:

• Long weekends
• School holidays
• Work leave
• Between jobs (during a change of employment)

In the end though it comes down to personal choice and what suits you best but as preparing for and actually making the move takes time and can disrupt routines, most people try to arrange the move for when they have maximum time to focus on it.

Why some times are better than others for moving house

If you have children you'll probably time your move to take place during the school holidays, as you'll want to allow them the time to be involved in the move, and to spend some time with their friends before leaving the area. It would also be better to have them start at their new schools at the beginning of a new school year or term. Moving during the school holidays will also give them chance to settle into their new environment beforehand.

If your move is a small one or you're not going too far then consider timing it for a long weekend. The extra day will give you more time to unpack and may even allow you to unwind before heading into the new week.

Taking some annual leave is also a good idea if you are planning to move. Consider the time needed to pack up, relocate and then unpack at the other end and plan your leave time accordingly. Having some time off to allow you to move comfortably goes a long way towards reducing the stress at what's always a hectic time.

Some help in timing your move

Once you have a general idea of when you will be moving you should start sourcing removalists to see which companies offer what you need and, perhaps more importantly, which companies are available during the period that you are moving. Some removalists specialise in short distance moves (usually at lower cost), and some removal companies offer the opportunity to get a quote and book online.

Moving is a major event in anyone's life but timing it right is half the journey.