Month: October 2020

If you have the luxury of choice, consider moving during non-peak season when the demand for movers isn’t as high.

This season usually falls between the months of fall and winter when temperatures start to drop. As long as you properly prepare for the weather, moving during these months can save you money and time. Here are a few advantages to moving during non-peak season.

Lower Moving Costs

The number one advantage to moving during non-peak season is lower prices. Moving can be costly, especially if you are travelling long distance across Canada or the United States. The good news about moving in the slower season is that credible movers will lower their costs to attract more customers. If you have a strict moving budget, consider arranging your move during this time to save yourself a ton of money!

Flexibility on Dates

It is always a good idea to book your move as soon as possible regardless of the time of year. However, throughout non-peak season movers have much more flexibility in their calendars to accommodate your preferred dates. Unforeseen delays or changes do happen in the buying, selling and moving process. Knowing your mover has the flexibility to adjust and work with you will give you additional peace of mind during what can be a stressful time. In peak moving season which falls in the spring and summer, your mover should be arranged at least 6-8 weeks prior to your move to ensure you get your required date.

More Time to Settle in

People typically spend a lot more time bundled up indoors come winter. Especially if you have children, the outdoor activities and events start to wind down and shift inside. During this quieter season there is a lot more time to plan and settle in after a move. Unpacking, decorating and organizing your belongings are much easier when you aren’t juggling your time with outdoor activities and day camps. Find some time to scout out your new area and discover all the nearby attractions and amenities as well.

June, July and August are the busiest months for moving.

If you plan to move during peak season, start looking for your mover as soon as possible. It is recommended that you book your move 4-6 weeks in advance to make sure the date you want is available. Once your date is determined you can start to prepare for the big day. Below are some great tips to help you beat the heat and stay organized during your summer move.

Set Up Utilities

With everything going on during a move, arranging for the utilities to be set up in your new home may be one of the last things on your mind. But this is an essential step in the pre-move process. During peak moving season, it can take up to 2-3 weeks to schedule a date for these arrangements. The last thing you want to worry about is moving in without lights, air conditioning or running water! Make sure to give your local utilities provider a call well in advance to avoid these conditions.

Schedule to Start Early Morning

One of our best tips to combat the summer heat during your move is to start as early in the day as possible. The hottest time of day is usually around early to mid-afternoon which can fluctuate depending on where you live. It can be very challenging to move in such high temperatures as your body exhausts more energy than usual. Talk to your movers to arrange for an early morning start; that way you can get ahead of the heat. If you don’t have a lot to move, starting later in the afternoon may be a good option as well.

Prepare Yourself for the Heat

Being outdoors on a hot summer day requires some preparation regardless of whether you are lounging or being active. Moving is an exhausting task on its own not to mention adding heat to the mixture. One of the best heat safety tips to stay protected during hot weather is to drink lots of fluids. Carry a water bottle with you or have a case of water nearby to consistently hydrate your body throughout the day. Another important tip when moving in the summer is to wear light fabrics. Avoid dark colours that easily absorb heat and make sure you are comfortable in loose fitting clothes. Last but not least, wear your sunscreen! Even if you are not directly in the sun all day, your skin will still likely be exposed at some point.

Preparing for your summer move with the tips above will help you beat the heat, stay organized, and set your move up for success.

Even with the best of intentions many people tend to throw away a lot of useful items when they move, especially food. Lack of time and convenience often overrule when deciding whether to make a trip to the local food bank, and as a result a lot of good, sustainable food goes to waste. We understand finding extra time is difficult during the busy weeks and days leading up to a move. But with a little bit of planning and some help from our Atlas Agents, minimizing food waste doesn’t have to be a burden. Here are some tips on how to use or donate the food left in your home before moving day.

Plan Your Meals

Meal prepping is a great technique to effectively clear out your pantry. Start by making a list of everything you have in your fridge, freezer and cupboards. Knowing what you have will help you plan better meals and use up more food. Focus on using all your perishable, freezer and opened foods first as these items will spoil quicker and can’t be donated. If you decide to go grocery shopping, stick with just the essentials and avoid buying in bulk. Remember, any leftover non-perishable items make for great donations!

Donate Your Non-Perishable

Atlas and many of our Atlas Agents have partnered with nonprofit group Move For Hunger to help make it easier on you to donate non-perishable food items when you move with Atlas. Simply gather all the non-perishable, long lasting food in your pantry and place them in a donation box. Our partnering Agents will pick up your donations at the time of your move and drop them off at the local food bank. Contact your local Atlas Agent to find out if they participate in our partnership or visit Food Banks Canada to find a donation center near you.