Tips for Moving in Hot Summer Weather
How to Stay Safe and Cool During a Summer Move
Summer is here and moving season is officially in play, but with it comes sweltering heat, high humidity, and unique challenges you shouldn’t ignore. While sunny skies might seem perfect for relocating, summer also brings extreme temperatures across much of the country. In places like Texas, Florida, and Arizona, it’s not uncommon for triple-digit heat and stifling humidity to push your limits. Even more critical? The cargo area of moving trucks and portable containers is not temperature controlled. On hot summer days, the inside can reach 120°F or higher, putting your belongings and your health at risk.
To help you plan smart and stay safe, here are practical tips for surviving your summer move.
1. Start Early, Finish Before Peak Heat
The hottest part of the day usually hits between 12 PM and 4 PM, so starting your move as early as possible can help avoid exhausting midday sun. Load the truck at dawn if possible, or schedule professional movers for morning hours to beat the heat and minimize risk of overheating.
2. Dress for Sun Protection
Loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton can help you stay cooler while shielding your skin from the sun. Instead of shorts and tank tops, choose lightweight long sleeves and pants to minimize direct exposure. A wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses also offer essential coverage. Don’t forget sunscreen—apply a broad-spectrum sunblock with SPF 30 or higher to exposed skin and reapply every two hours, especially if you’re sweating. This extra layer of protection helps prevent sunburn and keeps your body temperature more regulated during the move.
3. Hydrate Constantly
High heat and humidity will dehydrate you fast—especially during physical activity like lifting boxes or furniture.
● Drink water throughout the day—not just when you feel thirsty.
● Include electrolyte-rich drinks to replace sodium, potassium, and magnesium lost through sweat.
● Avoid sugary sodas, alcohol, and caffeine which can dehydrate you further.
Pro tip: Keep a cooler nearby with water bottles and hydrating snacks like watermelon, oranges, or trail mix.
4. Avoid Heat-Sensitive Items in the Truck
Since truck cargo areas and moving pods can exceed 120°F, pack heat-sensitive items separately in your car or consider shipping them separately.
● Electronics (laptops, phones, tablets)
● Candles, batteries, cosmetics, and vinyl records
● Plants and perishable goods
If it would melt, wilt, or break in a hot garage, don’t leave it in the truck.
5. Pack Smart to Reduce Labor Time
Packing in advance can drastically reduce time spent in the heat on moving day. Aim to have all boxes sealed, labeled, and organized by the day before your move.
● Group items by room to speed up loading/unloading
● Use plastic bins instead of cardboard where possible—cardboard weakens with humidity
● Use wardrobe boxes with vents to allow airflow
6. Take Regular Breaks
It’s easy to push yourself on moving day, but overheating can sneak up on you. Be aware of warning signs like dizziness, nausea, confusion, headache, or rapid pulse. These may indicate heat exhaustion or even heat stroke.
Find a shady or air-conditioned area every 30–60 minutes and rest. If possible, rotate movers or take shifts to reduce exposure.
7. Keep Pets and Kids Safe
Small children and pets are especially vulnerable to summer heat. Set them up in a cool, quiet space indoors with someone to supervise. If needed, consider doggy daycare or having friends or family watch them during the move. Never leave pets or kids in vehicles—even briefly.
8. Prep Utilities Ahead of Time
Make sure the air conditioning is turned on in your new home before moving day. You’ll need it to cool the house and store heat-sensitive items. Likewise, keep power running in your old place while loading so fans or portable ACs can keep things bearable.
9. Use Professionals Who Know How to Move in Heat
Working with an experienced moving company like Poseidon Moving ensures you get a trained team that knows how to protect both your belongings and themselves from heat risks.
We offer:
● Same-day moving services
● Full-service moving including packing, loading, and unpacking
● Truck-share or dedicated truck options
● Storage services and guaranteed flat-rate pricing
With service across 48 states, we understand how to navigate the heat in both dry states like Arizona and humid ones like Florida or Georgia.
10. Have a Backup Plan
Summer means storms, delays, and traffic. Build in flexibility with your movers and allow for weather-related disruptions. Make sure your moving company offers flexible delivery windows, GPS tracking, and proactive communication if anything changes.
