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The peak season for moving in Boston is from May to September, and you’ll notice the highest demand between Labor Day and Memorial Day. Peak moving seasons demand higher costs, stricter deadlines, and limited availability. Compared to the off-season, you’re likely going to face higher challenges this time.
However, moving during the peak season may be challenging, but it’s not impossible. With the right guidance and planning, you can overcome these obstacles and ensure that your move happens the way you’ve planned.
In this guide, we’ve broken down all the details of peak season moving in Boston, including the cost to expect, tips, and more.
When Is The Peak Moving Season in Boston?
Boston’s peak moving season runs from May to September, with everything being extremely busy. The “busiest” days are during late May and early September.
During this season, college students move in large numbers as universities close for the summer in May and prepare to reopen for the fall semester in late August. As a result, the number of student moves peaks during this period. At the same time, many families also prefer to move during these months because children have summer break. This allows them to transition smoothly without interrupting their studies.
Furthermore, “Allston Christmas” is the most famous event in Boston, which takes place on September 1st. This day sees thousands of leases turn over simultaneously, creating peak demand. All of this also happens due to one of the major factors – the weather!
The pleasant weather, longer daylight hours, and warm days make the conditions ideal for moving. However, these perks of moving during the peak season also mean that professional movers in Boston operate at maximum capacity and prices surge.
Does Peak Season in Boston Affect Moving Costs?
Moving costs in Boston increase by at least 20–40% during the peak season. And let’s not forget the supply and demand economy here. It’s no different when it comes to the moving industry. Generally, a move that would cost you around $1,000 in February may cost you $1,500 or more in July or September.
Besides the basic pay, you will also encounter limited availability of movers. Since movers are booked in advance, options are also limited. In addition, the room for negotiation is also almost impossible. And let’s say you book last-minute with any movers during the peak season, expect to pay an additional premium of $100-300 or even more.
Lastly, truck rental pricing also increases. The same truck that cost you $150 during the off-season can surge to $250 during the peak period. The same goes for packing supplies and storage unit prices.
Pros and Cons of Moving During Peak Season
Here are some advantages and disadvantages of moving during peak season in Boston to consider:
Pros of Moving During The Peak Season:
- ✔You get better weather conditions, meaning there are more warm and dry days, which makes loading and unloading easier.
- ✔Better weather means you can save yourself from weather-related hazards during the move.
- ✔Perfect for moves with kids, as peak season also coincides with school break.
- ✔Peak moving season in Boston aligns with higher rental and sales inventory, creating more housing options.
- ✔Makes driveways, stairs, and sidewalks more accessible since there is no snow.
- ✔You get longer daylight hours, so you can complete your move in a single day, too.
Cons of Moving During The Peak Season:
- ⚠Expect to pay higher moving costs compared to the off-season.
- ⚠Many reputable Boston movers are already booked in advance, so availability is limited.
- ⚠Especially on September 1st, securing your preferred moving date is challenging.
- ⚠Multiple moves occur on the same block, which can create parking challenges.
- ⚠During the peak season, traffic congestion is higher than usual, so you might want to consider the delays.
Planning Your Peak-Season Move: 5 Tips to Remember
Our team at 617 Boston Movers has handled thousands of moves during the peak season in Boston. Based on our experience and expertise, here are some tips to remember:
Stock Up Packing Supplies In Advance
When everyone moves at the same time, packing materials sell out quickly. This can leave you panicking at the last minute. Therefore, try to collect or purchase your supplies at least three weeks before your move date. If you want free boxes, check grocery stores, liquor stores, and similar retailers; they often have plenty available. Depending on the apartment size and belongings, make sure to start collecting supplies and plan in advance.
📦 Also check out: How to Pack for a Move
Secure Your Parking Permit
Do not skip this step. Without a permit, you can risk tickets and towing, and sometimes movers can charge extra for added time and distance. Remember, Boston requires moving truck permits for most neighborhoods. It’s mandatory, especially during the peak season when parking is in demand. Ensure that you apply for a parking permit at least two weeks before your moving date. It typically costs $50-$75 per day.
Our Boston moving permit guide can assist you and help you plan in advance.
Book Movers 6–8 Weeks Before Your Move
As mentioned before, moving companies in Boston are packed during the peak seasons, and dates are pre-booked in advance. Make sure to get quotes from multiple moving companies in Boston at least 2 months in advance, and block the dates with a deposit. If you’re planning your move closer to September 1st, make sure to book at least 10-12 weeks prior.
Declutter Properly
Moving during peak season means moving rates will also increase based on truck space, so every belonging you are carrying counts. Spend a day or your weekend decluttering items you no longer need. Donate or give them away instead of carrying everything with you.
Boston has multiple donation centers that make drop-offs easy. The fewer belongings you have, the lower the moving cost will be, and the fewer things to unpack in your new place.
Have a Back Up Plan For Weather
While summer is the best time for moving, Boston’s weather is unpredictable. You may be surprised by extreme heat waves or thunderstorms. Make sure to check the weather forecast at least a week in advance and monitor it daily as your moving day approaches. Ensure you stock plenty of water and snacks for hot days, not just for yourself but also for the movers. You can track Boston’s weather here.
If the weather is shaky, call your moving company and reschedule the move if possible. Often, movers have a flexible rescheduling policy, so you may be able to select the next available date. However, you need to inform them in advance.
Besides all this, also remember to prepare yourself for traffic challenges. Considering summers are peak time for tourists and constructions, especially Fridays and Sunday, plan your route in advance. Coordinate with your movers and see which route will be faster.
Refer to our Boston Moving Truck Route Guide to understand the traffic congestion, routes to avoid, and more.
The Bottom Line
Moving during the peak Boston’s season doesn’t have to be as difficult as it sounds. The key to ensuring your move happens in the best weather is by planning ahead, staying flexible, and booking early. Of course, you’re going to face higher moving costs and strict availability, but with the right preparation, you can navigate the challenges easily.
To get your peak-season move scheduled easily, you can always count on our team at 617 Boston Movers. We offer competitive rates, even during the busiest months in Boston. And right now, we’ve opened slots for summer moves in and out of the city. Get your free quote today or call us at (617) 208-4040 to speak to our representative.
