Moving sounds simple in theory—pack your stuff, load a truck, and go! But as anyone who has done it knows, the process is rarely that easy. Whether you’re relocating across town or to a new state, one of the biggest questions people have is: When should I book a moving company?
Too soon, and key details like whether you need packing assistance or short-term storage might still be unclear. Wait too long, and the most reliable moving company could already be booked, especially during peak moving seasons in spring and summer.
Explore what to consider when hiring a moving company near you so you get the right service from experienced professionals.
When To Book Your Movers?
The best time to hire a furniture moving company depends on the time of year, distance, and how many belongings you have. Below is a quick guide to help you figure out the perfect timeline:
Moving During Peak Season (May–September)
The busiest time for full-service moving companies runs from late spring to early fall. If you’re moving in June, July, or August, it’s best to book 6-8 weeks in advance to secure your preferred date.
Why summer moves fill up fast:
- Families prefer moving while kids are out of school.
- The weather is generally more favorable.
- Many leases and home closings happen during this time.
- College move-ins add extra demand, especially in Charlottesville, NC, where students return for the fall semester.
You may still find openings for last-minute peak-season relocations but expect limited scheduling options.
Moving During Off-Peak Season (October–April)
If you’re moving between October and April, you’ll have more flexibility when booking a local moving company. Movers typically have fewer reservations, so 3-4 weeks’ notice is usually enough to secure your preferred date.
Why an off-season move can be a great option:
- Greater availability, even on short notice.
- More apartment openings and lease incentives in some areas.
- Less traffic and congestion, reducing delays and making loading and unloading easier.
- More flexibility for adjusting last-minute changes.
Since demand is lower, companies may offer discounts or more flexible services, making this an ideal time for budget-conscious or short-notice relocations.
What If You Need a Mover ASAP?
When time is tight, most moving companies can accommodate last-minute services, especially outside peak season. If you need assistance within a week or less, start calling as soon as possible to check availability.
How movers can help with a last-minute transition:
- Full-service packing if you don’t have time to box everything up.
- Labor-only services for loading and unloading if you’ve rented a truck.
- Short-term storage if you need extra time before moving into your new place.
While some companies keep openings for urgent moves, scheduling options may be limited, and pricing will depend on the services you need. Booking as soon as possible gives you the best options.
How Distance Affects Your Moving Timeline
The farther you move, the more time you’ll need to plan. Qualified companies book up faster for long hauls, and additional logistics, like permits or multiple-day transport, can affect scheduling.
General booking guidelines:
- Local moves (within Charlotte or Charleston). 3-6 weeks ahead is usually enough, though weekends and month-end dates fill up quickly.
- Long-distance relocation (from North Carolina or South Carolina to another state). 8+ weeks ahead helps secure your preferred date and allows time for customized quotes based on distance, size, and special services.
Planning early for moves outside the Carolinas ensures the packing team can coordinate routes, multiple stops, or specialty items like pianos or large furniture. The more lead time you have, the smoother the process will be.
How To Make Sure You Get the Best Movers
No one wants to deal with unreliable movers who cancel at the last minute or show up late. Here’s how to lock in a great furniture moving company without stress:
- Get quotes from multiple businesses. Contact a few different moving companies to compare rates and services. A reliable furniture moving company will provide a clear estimate with no hidden fees.
- Read reviews. Check out Trustindex or Facebook reviews before choosing a moving company near you. If a company has a track record of great service, you’re in good hands.
- Ask about services. Do you need help packing? Are you moving a pool table? Do you want the team to unpack everything at your new place? Ask your local moving company what services they offer so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Once you find the right moving company, book them immediately, especially if you’re moving in peak season. Schedules fill up fast, and waiting too long could leave you scrambling for options.
Final Answer: When Should I Hire Movers?
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
| Move Type | Recommended Booking Time |
| Local move | 3-6 weeks in advance |
| Long-distance move (out of NC/SC) | 8+ weeks in advance |
| Peak season (May–September) | 6-8 weeks in advance |
| Off-peak season (October–April) | 3-4 weeks in advance |
| Last-minute move | ASAP (openings vary) |
Hiring a moving company early means less stress, better availability, and possibly lower prices. Whether moving across the city or just down the street, planning ahead can make your move hassle-free.
Book With Two Twigs Moving Today
Planning ahead makes moving easier, giving you more dates, services, and pricing choices. Timing depends on the season, how far you’re going, and whether you need packing help or storage.
At Two Twigs Moving, we provide reliable scheduling, transparent pricing, and services tailored to your move. Our licensed and insured team handles local and long-distance relocations in Charlotte, Charleston, and nearby areas, offering full-service solutions for homes and businesses.
Contact us today to get a free quote and schedule your moving date.
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