The month May is almost here, which is a huge deal in the world of moving companies. May is known as “National Moving Month” in the United States, and Memorial Day weekend officially kicks off the start of the peak season for moving. In May, the very best moving companies across the country are suddenly busier than ever, and moving rates are at their highest—inflated to meet the demand of so many people moving locally, long-distance, and to new destinations all over the world.

Unfortunately, this means that trying to plan a move during the busiest time of the year for moving can be difficult for a number of reasons. If you’re hoping to move in the near future, planning a relocation before peak season arrives means starting now.

At Allied Alaska, we’re you’re number one resource for everything you need to experience a smooth and well-planned moving experience. Take a look at some of our tips for planning your move now before May arrives, and learn why getting a head start on your relocation will facilitate the ease and success of your moving project.

Tips on Pre-Peak Season Moving from Allied Alaska

Moving is a task-heavy endeavor, regardless of whether your relocation is local or long-distance, large and complex, or small and simple. Starting a moving project can feel quite intimidating, especially with the added pressure of peak moving season just over the horizon.

At Allied Alaska, we recommend that our customers begin planning their moves at least two months in advance, which gives you plenty of time to get organized now before peak season is here. For best results, it’s best to jump in and get started—which is why we’ve prepared this list of to-dos to help get started with the logistics of your move now, before it’s too late.

  • Contact Moving Companies: Create a list of reputable moving companies in your area, and start calling them to schedule price estimates, one-by-one. We recommend calling at least two or three companies and comparing prices and services. You should also ask about different dates and determine what days will be less expensive when compared to others.

    As moving season approaches, moving companies will become less available, and at the same time, rates will become higher. That’s why it’s so important to start calling companies now to get the best dates and the best prices you can find for your move.
  • Create an Inventory of Your Belongings: The next step you can take to get ready for your move in time before peak season is to create an inventory of your belongings. This will help you dramatically as moving day approaches, and will also serve as an important piece of information that you and your moving company can use to stay organized on the day of your relocation.

Aside from a detailed inventory list, create a moving calendar of important dates and tasks related to your move. Make sure to use this calendar to stay on top of things as they come up, to avoid falling behind (and potentially delaying your move for peak moving season instead of just before).

  • Change Your Address and Sign Up for Services: Once college kids and schools are let out for the summer, you can expect long lines at the post office and in other businesses. Make sure to have your address changed before the summer season hits to avoid the summer rush.

    In addition to a change of address form, you’ll also want to make sure to visit your county clerk office if you need extra copies of important legal documents, doctors’ offices for medical records, your place of employment for last paychecks or other forms, and more. You will also want to have your electricity and water turned on at your new place of residence and to schedule an end date for the utilities at your old one.
  • Moving Tools, Equipment, and Supplies: The summer rush means that the materials that you use for your move—from packing materials and empty boxes, heavy-duty packing tape, bubble wrap, and other supplies, might not be as easily available. Check with local stores for spare boxes before moving season gets too close, and also ask your chosen moving company for tips on getting packing materials to get started organizing your belongings for the big day.
  • Start Packing Now: In the moving industry, it’s a well-known fact that packing takes at least double the amount of time that you think it will—at least for amateur packers. Get started now by following a moving schedule, and avoid leaving everything to the last minute (which is always a recipe for disaster).

    If you don’t have time to start packing now, consider hiring a moving company to help you. Most reputable moving companies offer full-service relocation options that include complete packing and unpacking of your belongings.

At Allied Alaska, we’ve been helping our customers make easy, well-planned, and affordable residential and commercial moves for over 25 years. Whether you’re moving within Alaska or to the continental USA, to Canada or anywhere else in the world, our team has you covered with everything you need for a streamlined and organized moving experience.

If you’d like to learn more tips on getting started planning your move now, or for more details about our services for relocation, give us a call to speak with one of our qualified moving coordinators. You can also get started with an in-home pricing estimate and moving consultation by filling out our online form.