When is the best time to move?

When is the best time to move?

The best time to move is during winter (October to March in the Northern Hemisphere and April to September in the Southern Hemisphere) if your main focus is to save money. Since demand for properties typically decreases when colder, there is less competition, lower prices and greater flexibility from moving companies. Plus, flights are generally cheaper in winter as airlines often reduce prices to attract passengers.

However, if a comfortable relocation with an increased variety of homes is more important to you, moving between May and September in the Northern Hemisphere or October to March in the Southern Hemisphere might be the better option. During the summer, property turnover is at its highest, leading to more vacancies. You'll likely have more time off work, and the increased daylight and milder weather will make the move more straightforward.

Visa application wait times can also impact your summer move. Many countries experience a surge of applications approaching the warmer months due to increased holidaymakers, relocations and the run-up to the start of the academic year.

When is peak moving season?

Peak moving season is between late spring and early autumn, typically from May to September in the Northern Hemisphere and October to March in the Southern Hemisphere.

Here are some reasons why people generally prefer to move home during the summer:

• Warmer and consistent weather reduces the risk of damage to furniture and belongings by rain, snow or ice.
• Longer daylight hours provide more time to move belongings and travel long distances, easing the pressure to finish quickly.
• Dry, clear roads make transporting items more straightforward, reducing delays caused by poor weather.
• Families like to take advantage of the summer holidays to minimise disruptions to the school year for their children.
• University students typically relocate in the later summer months, ahead of the academic year.
• The rental market is busier, with more properties available.
• Higher demand means faster lease turnovers, speeding up securing a new home.
• Settling into a new home is more comfortable, with reduced worry about cold temperatures or heating issues.

In addition, arranging your international move before, during or after public holidays, such as Lunar New Year in China and Thanksgiving in the USA, can lead to increased costs and stress due to the higher demand. Planning your move outside busy periods is essential to save money and enjoy a smooth moving experience.

If you have children, aligning your move with school terms is essential. Many families prefer to move during school holidays or extended breaks, especially the summertime, to avoid disrupting their children's education.