Spring Moving Guide 2025
Your Complete Checklist for a Stress-Free Move This Spring
Updated: March 2025
15 min read
Expert Verified
Spring Moving Advantage
Spring offers optimal weather conditions, more daylight hours, and typically better availability than summer peak season. Plan early to maximize these benefits!
Why Spring is Prime Moving Season
Spring 2025 marks one of the busiest moving periods, second only to summer. Approximately 40% of all annual moves occur between March and May, driven by favorable weather, school schedules, and lease renewal cycles.
Weather Benefits
- Moderate temperatures (ideal for physical labor)
- Longer daylight hours for evening moves
- Less extreme weather than summer/winter
- Better road conditions than winter
Cost Considerations
- March moves: Lower demand, better rates
- April-May: Increasing prices as peak nears
- Mid-week moves: 10-20% cheaper
- Mid-month dates: Better availability
8-Week Spring Moving Timeline
8 Weeks Before
Research & Planning Phase
- Research new neighborhoods
- Set moving budget ($1,500-$5,000 typical)
- Start decluttering and donating
- Create inventory of belongings
- Review current lease terms
- Give notice to landlord (typically 30-60 days)
- Research moving companies
- Check reviews on BBB and Yelp
6 Weeks Before
Booking & Logistics
- Get 3+ moving quotes
- Book your moving company
- Reserve elevator/loading dock time
- Arrange pet/child care for moving day
- Start collecting moving supplies
- Schedule utility transfers
- Request time off work
- Begin packing seasonal items
4 Weeks Before
Packing & Address Changes
- Pack non-essential rooms first
- Label all boxes clearly
- Change address with USPS
- Update banks, subscriptions
- Transfer/cancel gym memberships
- Notify doctors, dentists
- Update driver's license info
- Sell/donate unwanted furniture
1 Week Before
Final Preparations
- Confirm moving company details
- Pack essentials bag (medications, chargers, toiletries)
- Take photos of current apartment
- Defrost freezer, empty fridge
- Prepare cash for movers' tips
- Gather important documents
- Disassemble large furniture
- Confirm new home access
Spring 2025 Moving Cost Breakdown
| Move Type | March (Off-Peak) | April (Shoulder) | May (Peak Start) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio/1BR Local | $400-$800 | $500-$1,000 | $600-$1,200 |
| 2-3BR Local | $800-$1,500 | $1,000-$1,800 | $1,200-$2,200 |
| Cross-Country | $3,500-$5,500 | $4,000-$6,500 | $4,500-$7,500 |
Money-Saving Tip: Moving mid-week (Tuesday-Thursday) and mid-month can save you 10-25% compared to weekend and end-of-month moves.
Spring Weather Considerations
Spring weather can be unpredictable. Here's how to protect your belongings:
Rain Protection
- Plastic wrap for furniture
- Waterproof boxes for electronics
- Tarps for loading areas
Allergy Season
- Keep allergy meds handy
- Plan for frequent breaks
- Deep clean before unpacking
Temperature Swings
- Dress in layers
- Have water available
- Plan indoor breaks
Frequently Asked Questions
March and early April typically offer the best balance of lower moving costs and better availability. Late April through May sees increased demand as families prepare for summer moves, leading to higher prices and less flexibility in scheduling. If budget is your priority, aim for a mid-week move in March.
The average local move (under 100 miles) costs $1,250-$1,500 in spring 2025, while long-distance moves average $4,500-$6,000. Costs increase 20-30% during peak season (May-June). Factors affecting price include home size, distance, and timing (weekday vs weekend, early vs late month).
Book your moving company 6-8 weeks in advance for spring moves. Weekend dates and end-of-month moves fill up quickly, so flexibility with your moving date can save money and ensure availability. For moves in late April or May, consider booking even earlier (8-10 weeks) as demand increases.
Start with seasonal items you won't need (winter clothes, holiday decorations), then move to rarely-used rooms like guest bedrooms, followed by decorative items and books. Leave daily essentials for last. Pro tip: Pack a "first night box" with toiletries, phone chargers, snacks, and bedding so you're comfortable immediately after the move.
Yes, tipping movers is customary and appreciated. Standard tip is $20-$50 per mover for a half-day move or $50-$100 per mover for a full-day or difficult move (stairs, heavy items, long distances). For exceptional service, consider the higher end. Tips are typically given in cash at the end of the job, directly to each mover.
Essential Moving Resources
Download Free Printable Checklist
Get our complete spring moving checklist in PDF format - take it with you as you plan your move!
Get Your Free ChecklistQuick Links
Pro Tips
- Save 20%+: Move mid-week and mid-month for the best rates.
- Free Boxes: Check Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, and liquor stores.
- Declutter First: Moving fewer items = lower moving costs.
- Document Everything: Take photos of your old place before and after cleaning.