What Is the Slowest Month for Moving Companies?

January is the slowest month for moving companies. This cold winter month sees the fewest moves of the year, with moving companies reporting up to 40% less business compared to peak summer months.

If you're planning a move, knowing when moving companies are least busy can help you save money and get better service. The moving industry has clear patterns throughout the year, and understanding these trends can make your move easier and cheaper.

Why January Is the Slowest Month

Weather Makes Moving Hard

January brings cold, snowy weather in most places. Moving boxes and furniture in freezing temperatures is tough. Ice on walkways makes it dangerous for movers to carry heavy items. Snow can block driveways and make it hard for moving trucks to get close to your home.

People Are Tired After the Holidays

After spending money on Christmas and New Year's, families have less cash for moving. January is when people pay off credit card bills from holiday shopping. Moving costs a lot of money, so most people wait until later in the year.

Kids Are in School

School is back in session after winter break. Parents don't want to move their kids to a new school in the middle of the year. It's easier for families to wait until summer when school is out.

Fewer People Buy Houses

The real estate market slows down in January. Since the moving industry follows housing trends, fewer home sales mean fewer moves. Most people start looking for new homes in spring.

Other Slow Months for Moving Companies

February: Still Very Slow

February is the second slowest month. It's still cold and snowy in many places. The month is short, so there are fewer days for moving. People are still recovering from holiday expenses.

December: Holiday Slowdown

December is the third slowest month. People are busy with holiday plans and family visits. Moving companies report that business drops sharply after Thanksgiving and stays low until January.

November: Starting to Slow Down

November marks the beginning of the slow season. After Halloween, moving activity drops as people prepare for holidays. The weather starts getting colder, and daylight hours get shorter.

When Moving Companies Are Busiest

Summer Is Peak Season

June, July, and August are the busiest months. About 60% of all moves happen during these three months. Moving companies charge their highest rates during summer because demand is so high.

Why Summer Is So Busy

• Schools are out, so kids can move without missing class
• Weather is warm and sunny
• Days are longer, giving more time to move
• Many people take summer vacation from work
• College students move at the end of the school year

Spring Gets Busy Too

March, April, and May see more moves as people prepare for summer. The weather gets warmer, making moving more pleasant. Many people list their homes for sale in spring.

How to Save Money Moving in Slow Months

Get Better Rates

Moving companies offer discounts during slow months. You can save 20-30% on your move by choosing January or February. Professional movers have more time to negotiate prices when they're not busy.

Choose Your Moving Date

During slow months, you can pick the exact date you want to move. In summer, you might have to wait weeks for an available slot. Winter moves give you more flexibility.

Get Better Service

When movers aren't rushed, they can give you better attention. Your moving crew won't be tired from doing several moves in one day. They can take more care with your belongings.

More Time for Planning

Moving companies have more time to plan your move during slow months. They can visit your home for a detailed estimate. You'll get better customer service because they're not swamped with calls.

Tips for Moving in Winter

Prepare for Cold Weather

Pack warm clothes where you can find them easily. Make sure your heat is turned on at your new home before you arrive. Keep moving boxes dry and protected from snow.

Watch the Weather

Check weather forecasts before your moving day. Be ready to reschedule if a big storm is coming. Ice and heavy snow can make moving dangerous.

Protect Your Belongings

Cold weather can damage some items. Keep electronics warm during the move. Don't leave fragile items in freezing temperatures for too long.

Plan for Shorter Days

Winter days are shorter, so start your move early. Make sure your new home has good lighting for when the sun goes down. Keep flashlights handy in case of power problems.

Best Times to Move for Different Needs

Moving with Kids

Summer is still best for families with school-age children. But if you must move during the school year, winter break or spring break are good options. Talk to your new school about enrollment dates.

Moving for Work

If your job is moving you, ask if you can choose the timing. Commercial movers often have more flexibility in winter. Business moves can be easier when offices are less busy.

Moving for Seniors

Senior moving can be easier in winter when movers have more time. But consider health issues related to cold weather. Make sure the new home is warm and safe.

First-Time Home Buyers

New homeowners often have more flexibility in timing. Moving in winter can save money that you can use for home improvements. Just make sure your new home is ready for cold weather.

Planning Your Move Around Slow Months

Start Planning Early

Even though January is slow, good moving companies still book up. Start planning your winter move at least 6-8 weeks ahead. This gives you time to compare prices and services.

Book Storage if Needed

If you need storage solutions, winter is a good time to get better rates. Moving companies often offer package deals that include storage during slow months.

Consider a Partial Move

Some families do a partial move in winter and complete it in spring. You could move your furniture in January and come back for the rest later. This spreads out the cost and work.

Get Multiple Quotes

Always get quotes from several moving companies. During slow months, you have more time to compare options. Don't just choose the cheapest - look for the best value.

How Moving Companies Handle Slow Months

Lower Prices

Moving companies reduce their rates to attract customers during slow months. They offer special winter discounts and package deals. Some companies have fixed low rates for January and February moves.

Staff Adjustments

Many moving companies use fewer workers during slow months. Some workers take vacation time or work reduced hours. This helps companies save money when business is slow.

Equipment Maintenance

Slow months are perfect for fixing trucks and equipment. Moving companies service their vehicles and replace worn-out tools. This means better equipment when you move.

Training and Preparation

Moving companies use slow time to train their workers. New employees get more hands-on practice. This leads to better service quality when business picks up.

Regional Differences in Slow Months

Northern States

In places like Minnesota and Maine, January and February are extremely slow due to harsh winters. Moving companies in these areas often shut down for several weeks.

Southern States

In warmer places like Florida and Texas, January is still the slowest month, but not as dramatically. The weather is milder, so some people still move.

Western States

Mountain states like Colorado see very slow winters due to snow. Coastal areas like California have less seasonal variation but still see January as the slowest month.

Making the Most of Off-Peak Moving

Flexibility Is Key

The biggest advantage of moving in slow months is flexibility. You can choose your preferred date, time, and services. Apartment movers have more time to handle special requests.

Negotiate Better Terms

During slow months, you have more power to negotiate. Ask for free services like packing or extra insurance. Companies want your business and may throw in extras.

Get Premium Service

Moving companies can provide better service when they're not rushed. Your belongings get more careful handling. Customer service is more responsive to your needs.

Plan for Delays

Winter weather can cause delays, so build extra time into your schedule. Have backup plans if storms hit. Keep important items with you instead of in the moving truck.

Final Thoughts

January is clearly the slowest month for moving companies, followed by February and December. Moving during these slow months can save you significant money and get you better service. While winter moving has challenges like cold weather and shorter days, the benefits often outweigh the drawbacks.

If you're flexible with your moving date, consider scheduling your move between November and March. You'll pay less, get more attention from your movers, and have better availability. Just make sure to plan ahead for weather challenges and choose a reputable moving company.

Ready to plan your off-peak move? Contact Last Stop Moving for a free estimate. We provide reliable, professional moving services year-round, with special winter rates that can help you save money on your next move.