When it comes to moving, whether it’s across town or across the state, timing is everything. One of the biggest questions people face is: How early should you book a moving company? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but booking early can make the difference between a smooth, stress-free move and a scramble to secure help at the last minute.
If you’re in Redlands, where moving demand often fluctuates with the seasons, it’s especially important to know when to start planning, when to call for quotes, and what to do in the weeks leading up to moving day. Let’s break it all down so you can move with confidence.
All the Perks of Booking Your Move Early
Booking a moving company isn’t something you want to leave until the last minute. Here’s why giving yourself extra time pays off:
Better Availability: Movers can book up quickly, especially during peak moving seasons like summer, the end of the month, and weekends.
Lower Stress: Having your moving day reserved early means one less thing to worry about as the date approaches.
Better Rates: Prices may be lower or more flexible when you book ahead instead of grabbing a last-minute slot.
More Planning Time: Once you know your moving date is locked in, you can work backward to create a solid packing and preparation timeline.
When’s the Ideal Time to Book Your Move?
While every move is different, here’s a general guide for how far in advance you should book a moving company in Redlands:
Local Moves (Within 50 Miles)
Book at least 4–6 weeks in advance, but even earlier if you plan to move during busy summer months or around major holidays.
Long-Distance Moves (Over 50 Miles)
Book at least 8–12 weeks in advance to allow the company time to coordinate logistics and scheduling.
Peak Season Moves (May–September)
Secure your movers as early as 3 months in advance if possible. Summer is the busiest moving season, and competition for dates is high.
Off-Peak Season Moves (October–April)
You may be able to book 3–4 weeks ahead, but more notice is always better.
If your moving date is flexible, you’ll have more options. If it’s set in stone, such as when you’ve sold your home or signed a lease, lock in your movers as soon as possible.
When’s the Best Time Just to Call for a Quote?
One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting too long to call for moving quotes. The sweet spot is usually right after your move date is confirmed, or at least when you have a strong estimate of when you’ll be moving.
By calling for quotes early, you can compare services without feeling pressured to make a decision on the spot.
What to Do Between Booking Your Move and Moving Day
Once you’ve booked your movers, you might think you can relax until moving day. But this is actually the perfect time to prepare so that your move goes smoothly. Here’s a checklist of what to do in the weeks before your move:
1. Declutter Your Home
The less you move, the less you pay. Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or toss. This step can dramatically reduce your moving costs and help you start fresh in your new home.
2. Gather Packing Supplies
If you’re packing yourself, start collecting boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and tape. Some movers also offer packing materials for sale or rent.
3. Label Everything
Clear labeling speeds up both loading and unloading. Mark boxes with the room they belong to and note if they contain fragile items.
4. Create a Moving Binder
Keep all moving-related documents, like quotes, contracts, checklists, and receipts, in one place. This will make it easier to reference important details later.
5. Arrange for Special Handling
If you have valuable, oversized, or fragile items, confirm with your moving company how these will be packed and transported.
6. Update Your Address
Submit a change-of-address form with the USPS, update your driver’s license, and inform banks, insurance providers, and subscription services.
7. Confirm the Details
About a week before your move, contact your movers to reconfirm your moving date, time, and any special instructions.
What Happens If You Book Your Move Too Late?
Booking your movers at the last minute can lead to a number of headaches:
Limited Availability: You may not get your preferred date, or you might have to move on a less convenient day.
Higher Rates: Some movers increase prices when demand is high.
Less Time to Prepare: Without enough lead time, you may feel rushed and unorganized, which can lead to misplaced items or overlooked tasks.
Bottom Line: The Sooner You Make the Call, The Better
In Redlands, the best rule of thumb is to book your moving company as soon as your moving date is set, ideally 6-12 weeks in advance, depending on the season and distance. Calling for quotes early gives you time to compare services, lock in a fair price, and choose the company that best fits your needs.
From the moment you book until the day the moving truck arrives, use the time wisely to declutter, pack, and organize so you’re fully prepared. The earlier you plan, the more likely you are to enjoy a stress-free move into your new home.
Make Your Move in Redlands Stress-Free with Redlands Moving!
Ready to lock in your moving date and start planning with confidence? At Redlands Moving, we make every step of your relocation easy, from your first call to the moment the last box is unpacked. Our friendly, experienced team knows the ins and outs of moving in Redlands, so you can relax and focus on settling into your new home. Don’t wait until the last minute. Contact us today at (909) 792-1555 to schedule your move and secure a date with our team of local movers in Redlands!