5 Tips to Survive Summer Heat While Moving

With warmer weather and the kids out of school, it’s no surprise that more than half of all moves are made between May and September.

While summer weather is ideal for avoiding ice, rain and snow, the rising (and sometime extreme) temperatures can present different safety concerns, such as dehydration and heat exhaustion. New homeowners must take proper precautions to ensure safety and a smooth transition during the hotter weather.  

Here are five tips to overcome the heat when moving from one home to the next this summer.

1. Lighten the Load

Reduce the amount of furniture and items you have to move by sorting them into categories. This will help reduce possessions and keep your belongings organized. Consider which items to donate, keep, store or throw away by using these categories:  

• Donate gently used clothing or appliances.  

• Keep essentials you will need in your new home.

• Store excess furniture and seasonal items, such as shovels, snow blowers and winter clothing in a self-storage unit.

• Throw away items that are worn or damaged, such as old clothing, linens and household items.

2. Hire Professional Services

Lower the risk of overheating or injury by hiring a moving truck valet service to transport your belongings for you. Consider the following steps to guarantee professional assistance on move-in day:

• Book a truck in advance.

• Confirm truck availability at your desired time of day.

• Research a reputable moving service to ensure the safety of your possessions.

• Verify truck expenses and additional fees.

Security Self Storage offers convenient valet services free of charge, providing a smoother transition into your new home.

3. Keep Your New Home Cool

Ensure utilities are functioning properly and activated in your new home prior to arrival. Utilities, such as fans and HVAC systems, should be turned on in advance to guarantee a comfortable environment while you unload and unpack.

4. Tend to Your Physical Health

Summer heat can pose serious health hazards, such as heatstroke, dehydration or other heat-related illnesses. Stay safe by avoiding strenuous work in extreme or extensive heat, and consider taking these precautions when moving:

• Dress for the weather. Wear light colors and comfortable clothing.

• Drink plenty of water. Keep hydrated to avoid overheating or dehydration.

• Move earlier or later in the day. Avoid moving mid-day at peak temperatures (between 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.).

• Take frequent breaks. Allow yourself to rest periodically.

• Wear sunscreen. Protect exposed skin from burns and reapply often.  

5. Protect Heat-Sensitive Items

Avoid packing heat-sensitive items in hot vehicles where they may melt, rust or warp. Climate-controlled self-storage units maintain temperate environments to preserve your valuables.

The following items should be stored in moderate conditions to ensure they are protected from costly damage due to sun, heat or humidity exposure:

• Bedding.

• Books and paper goods.

• Candles.

• CDs and DVDs.

• Leather or wood furniture.

• Metal appliances.

Moving during the summer should be an easy process. Avoid damaging your belongings and take proper safety precautions to beat the summer heat.

How will you protect yourself from the heat when moving into your new home this summer? Share in the comment section below!