Moving in the summer: how to keep a cool head

Moving in the summer calls for extra planning, because it is the busiest moving season of the year and heat puts extra strain on both your belongings and the moving team. An experienced removals company such as Oomen takes this into account right from the planning stage, with a logical loading plan, enough breaks and the right protection for fragile belongings. That way your moving day stays clear, safe and free of unnecessary damage, even on the hottest day.

In this article you will read why summer calls for a different approach, what Oomen does differently on hot days, and how to prepare your move without unnecessary heavy work.

Why does moving in the summer call for extra planning?

Summer is traditionally the busiest moving season in the Netherlands. For many families the school holidays are a logical moment to move, so the children can start at their new school straight after the break. As a result, the diaries of removals companies fill up faster than in other seasons.

So book your summer move 6 to 8 weeks in advance if you can, to be sure of the date that suits you best. Leave it too late and you risk having to shift your moving date or having less choice of time slot.

What does Oomen do when moving on hot days?

When temperatures are high we adjust our planning and our way of working. Wherever possible we start early in the day, before the heat reaches its peak, and we build in plenty of drinks breaks for the team.

We also load the removal van according to a logical loading plan, so heat-sensitive items spend as little time as possible in a closed van: last in, first out. Our team works to fixed safety protocols in warm weather too, so the moving day stays under control from start to finish.

What can you prepare yourself without unnecessary lifting?

There is plenty you can do to make moving day lighter, without any heavy lifting. Label your boxes in advance, empty and clean the fridge and freezer, and arrange a parking space or permit for the removal van in good time.

Keep the walkways in and around the house free of obstacles and put out water for the moving team. Settle children and pets somewhere quiet and cool, away from the bustle; this prevents unnecessary stress for everyone during the heaviest work.

If you do lend a hand, keep it light: make sure the boxes are ready, the walkways are clear and there is enough water available. In warm weather it is better to leave the heavy lifting to experienced movers, so the moving day stays safe and under control.

Which belongings are sensitive to heat?

Electronics, candles, cosmetics and furniture with glued joints can suffer from high temperatures in a closed removal van. Artwork, wine and plants are vulnerable to heat and direct sunlight as well.

Our team keeps these items in the van as briefly as possible by loading them last and unloading them first. If you have a car with air conditioning, that is a good option for transporting the most vulnerable items yourself. Is there a period between your old and new home when you cannot put heat-sensitive belongings straight into place? Then consider temporary, climate-controlled storage instead of a hot garage or shed.

Is a furniture lift useful in warm weather?

For higher floors in particular, a furniture lift is extra valuable in the summer. It saves the team a lot of stair work in the heat and speeds up loading and unloading, so your belongings spend less time in the sun or in a hot van.

Planning a summer move? Request a quote in good time

Would you like a worry-free move, even on the hottest day of the year? See what Oomen can do for your private move , or read how moving with Oomen works exactly. Request a free, no-obligation quote , so you know in good time where you stand.

Frequently asked questions

Can a removals company move house in warm weather?

Yes. A professional removals company adjusts its planning and way of working when temperatures are high, for example by starting early and building in enough breaks. That way the move stays safe and controlled in warm weather too.

What does Oomen do to work safely in the heat?

Wherever possible we start early in the day, build in drinks breaks for the team and load heat-sensitive belongings into the van last and unload them first.

Do I have to help with the lifting during a summer move?

There is no need. If you would still like to help, stick to light tasks such as setting out boxes and keeping walkways clear, and in warm weather leave the heavy lifting to experienced movers.

Which belongings should I protect against the heat?

Think of electronics, candles, cosmetics, artwork, wine and furniture with glued joints. These items can suffer from high temperatures in a closed removal van.

How far in advance should I book a removals company in the summer?

Book 6 to 8 weeks in advance if you can, because summer is the busiest moving season of the year.

Is a furniture lift useful for a summer move?

Yes. A furniture lift saves stair work in the heat and speeds up loading and unloading, so your belongings are exposed to heat for less time.