Everyone knows that moving is not just an exercise in putting things into boxes and hiring a moving trailer; timing is also important. In the Greater Toronto Area, where the climate can vary by 180 degrees, from snowstorms to heatwaves, the choice of the season to move into may be the difference between heaven and hell. Whether you’re relocating with family, switching apartments, or moving for work, the time of year you choose can impact everything from costs to comfort. In the blog below, we’ll walk you through what to expect in each season so you can avoid unnecessary stress and plan your move with confidence.
The Best Time of Year to Move in the GTA
All seasons in the Greater Toronto Area do not provide the same moving experience. Prices, availability of movers, and weather all change dramatically depending on the time of the year. The magic of a stress-free and hassle-free move is the ability to schedule at a time that suits you and your needs.
Let’s break down what each season brings: the good, the bad, and who it’s best for.
Spring (April – May)
Spring is considered a new beginning, and to most people, anything related to moving during such a time is ideal. As the weather becomes warmer, with no more snow, the city awakens, making moving much more comfortable.
Pros:
- No frosty walks or broiling heat, easy loading and unloading of your stuff.
- There is more mover availability than in the summer since it is not the peak season.
- Rates can be cheaper, particularly at the beginning of the spring season when the number of tourists begins to increase.
Cons:
- Unpredictable rain can make moving days a little messy.
- Allergies (hello, pollen!) might be a minor nuisance during the process.
Ideal For:
Anyone looking for a balance between good weather and decent rates, especially first-time movers or those not tied to school-year schedules.
Summer (June – August)
The summer month is the most preferred time for moving, and it is not surprising why. The long hours of the day, when school is out, provide the most convenient opportunities to relocate to a new location, as families typically accompany such relocations. All you need to remember is that high demand leads to high prices and a lack of places to stay; hence, early booking is crucial.
Pros:
- Longer days give you more time to accomplish tasks.
- Easy to schedule with children, no interruption of the school year.
- It is possible to predict the weather and plan ahead.
Cons:
- June is the most popular time of the year for movers, as demand is high and prices tend to be higher.
- Heat and humidity can make the physical part of moving exhausting.
- The vacations and the construction season may increase traffic.
Ideal For:
Families, students, and individuals who need to transfer within a specified timeframe should be prepared to pay a premium and make reservations in advance.
Fall (September – October)
Fall provides a win-win situation: good weather and low demand. Moving companies are usually more available between the peak of summer and the beginning of fall, with rates possibly declining.
Pros:
- Moving is a lot more comfortable at cooler temperatures.
- Having more flexibility in scheduling with the movers at reduced costs in most cases.
- Less traffic and fewer traffic jams, in terms of the roads and the buildings, as the summer rush subsides.
Cons:
- Shorter days may limit the amount of daylight you have on a moving day.
- Families with children may already have established routines, such as a school-year routine.
Ideal For:
Budget-conscious movers and anyone who prefers mild weather without the crowds and chaos of summer.
Winter (November – March)
Not everyone will prefer to spend their winter vacation, but there are still some hidden benefits that come with it, provided you are either on a tight budget or do not have any particular plans.
Pros:
- Lowest demand = lowest prices. Movers are often more available, and discounts may be easier to find.
- Scheduling flexibility is typically much better.
- Apartments and homes are more available as fewer people move during this time.
Cons:
- Cold temperatures, as well as snow and ice, can bar physical movement and make it dangerous.
- Possible delays because of weather conditions or the state of the roads.
- In difficult circumstances, packing and loading will be slower.
Ideal For:
People who are on a tighter budget or have a flexible timeline and don’t mind braving the cold for a good deal.
Why Is ABS Movers Your Year-Round Moving Partner?
Regardless of the time of the year, if you have plans to relocate, ABS Movers is the company to ease the burden of moving and make it dependable. No matter whether it is winter or summer, whether it is cold or hot, our experienced team understands how to approach every weather situation with competence and sensitivity. We know first-hand what the peculiarities of moving in the GTA are, which is why we are perfectly ready to handle all of them at any time of the year.
With many years of experience under its belt, ABS Movers has gained a reputation for reliable service, fair prices, and customer satisfaction. Our teams are professional and on time, and they do not hesitate to go the extra mile. And the best thing is that we do not express the practice of hidden prices; instead, on the contrary, we are communicating honesty at all stages of moving, and we can be sure that we will move you safely every season, every time.
FAQs
What’s the cheapest time of year to move into the GTA?
The off-peak period is typically between winter (November to March), when it is least expensive to shift. The demand is reduced, and moving companies tend to offer discounted prices and more flexible schedules. Winter is also an inexpensive way to relocate, particularly if you don’t mind the snow or delays that may occur during cold weather.
What is the coldest month in the GTA?
The coldest month is usually January when the average low temperatures can drop to below -10 °C. When moving during the winter, ensure your moving company has experience dealing with icy weather, as ABS Movers does.
What is the best day to move into the GTA?
The ideal days to move are mid-week days, preferably Tuesdays and Wednesdays. They are usually less busy, which leads to better rates and schedules. Weekends and month-ends should be avoided because, at such times, companies have peak traffic.
Is it better to move at the beginning or end of the month?
Flexibility can also be utilized by adjusting the payment schedule mid-month. At the start and end of the month, with the lease and rental agreement cycles, both prices and availability may rise due to the prevalence of busy periods.
Does the weather affect moving in the GTA?
Well, yes, it is a factor of weather, at least in the winter and early spring. Delays due to snow, ice, or excessive rain may present a problem and complicate loading and unloading. That is why one should find movers who can handle everything at a high level throughout the year.
How far in advance should I book my movers in Toronto?
For peak seasons, such as summer or the end of the month, it’s best to book at least 4–6 weeks in advance. During slower seasons, such as winter, 2–3 weeks’ notice is often sufficient, but booking early always provides more options.