Summer is the hottest time to move house. It’s both a popular time to move as the weather is clear and the whole family is on holiday, and also hot because the temperatures are up. Australian summers get very hot, recording some of the highest temperatures on Earth. Because of this, summer moving creates a unique set of challenges. Here are some tips to stop your moving plans from going up in flames.
1. Allow more time to plan than any other season of the year
As more people are on the move, summer is a very busy time for moving companies. Book your moving services as far in advance as you can to avoid missing out on the best day for your moving schedule. If you have extra travel arrangements to make, such as flights and hotel rooms, book these as soon as you can too.
2. Take your time with packing
If you’re packing up your house yourself, factor in the weather. Moving heavy objects is hard work in itself, but in the heat, it places much higher demands on the body. If you can, distribute the weight of items in boxes to avoid heavy lifting. Disassemble furniture to make it easier and lighter to carry. Get help if any job is too demanding to do alone.
3. Remember to drink plenty of water
The number one mistake many people make when moving is to forget to eat and drink enough. In summer, this is especially important. You’ll need to drink more water than normal while you do physical work in the heat. Make sure you have water with you all the time and refill your bottle whenever you run out. Dehydration leads to loss of strength and stamina, and is the main cause of heat exhaustion. That’s the last thing you need while moving.
4. Protect yourself from sun and heat wherever possible
As most people are more focused on the task at hand rather than sun protection, they tend to forget how much they’re exposed to sun and heat while moving. On very hot days, sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat aren’t sufficient protection. Use shade wherever possible while you’re outside and take regular breaks inside to escape the heat.
5. Consider the heat at your destination
If you can get access to the house at your destination before you arrive, make sure the air conditioning is switched on. You could ask your real estate agent to do this, or anyone else who has access to the property. The cool air will be a welcome relief as unloading and unpacking is also hot, hard work.
6. Don’t forget to protect kids and pets
Make sure your children have good sun and heat protection during your move. Keep them occupied and out of harm’s way. A little extra screen time with their favourite device in the shade is good for everyone’s stress levels. Make sure pets in cages or carriers are also placed somewhere cool while in transit.
7. Take plenty of breaks
Moving is stressful and the heat can make your stress levels worse. The first signs of heat exhaustion are when you begin to feel anxious or drowsy. If you begin to feel either or both, stop and take a break in a cool place to hydrate. Better still, prevent the heat from getting on top of you by taking regular breaks to cool down, hydrate and catch your breath.
8. Keep a cool head
Moving in summer requires a cool head in both senses. You’ll enjoy a smooth summer move by following these few simple tips. Don’t let the heat wear you down, and ask for help wherever you can. If we can help make your summer move a breeze, give us a call.
