The best way to move in summer heat is to start at sunrise, finish the heaviest loading before noon, keep water and shade on hand, and pack heat-sensitive items separately. Heat makes every move slower and riskier, but a few adjustments keep it manageable.
What time of day should you move in hot weather?
Start as early as your building and neighbors allow — 7 a.m. is realistic in most suburbs. Temperatures in the Chicago area can be in the upper 80s or 90s by early afternoon in July and August, and humidity makes it feel worse. Aim to have the truck loaded by noon, and save lighter jobs like cleaning and final walkthroughs for the afternoon.
If you can only move in the afternoon, build in more breaks and load the heaviest items first while your energy is highest.
What should you protect from the heat?
Some items do not tolerate a hot truck or garage. Pack them in a separate tote and carry them in your own air-conditioned vehicle:
- Medications, vitamins and anything with a temperature warning on the label.
- Candles, lipstick and chocolate or other food that melts.
- Vinyl records, CDs, DVDs and photographs, which can warp or stick.
- Laptops, tablets, phones and external drives.
- Houseplants, which are sensitive to both heat and a closed truck.
How do you stay safe while moving in the heat?
- Drink water before you feel thirsty, and keep a cooler of water and sports drinks within reach.
- Take a five-minute break in shade or air conditioning every hour.
- Wear light, breathable clothes, closed-toe shoes with grip, and a hat.
- Know the signs of heat illness: dizziness, nausea, headache, or a sudden stop in sweating. If you or a helper feel any of them, stop, cool down, and get medical help if symptoms persist.
Assign one person to watch the crew, especially if friends and family are helping.
How do totes help in hot weather?
Totes are faster to pack than cardboard because there is no taping, no box assembly and no cutting. The uniform size stacks quickly, so loading takes less time in the heat. The plastic is also easy to wipe down if it gets sweaty or dirty, and lids latch, so contents stay contained if you set them down on hot pavement or grass.
Keep the dolly close: rolling totes across a hot driveway is easier on your back than carrying them.
Should you book earlier for a summer move?
Yes. May through September is peak moving season across the northern and northwestern suburbs, and delivery slots fill up on weekends. Book at least a week ahead, or two weeks for the last weekend of the month. If your old and new places overlap by a few days, use the four-week term so you are not rushed into a midday move.
See tote packages by home size and book your delivery date.
View Residential PricingFrequently Asked Questions
What is the coolest time of day to move?
Early morning, usually between 6 and 11 a.m. Aim to finish heavy loading before the afternoon heat builds.
Can plastic totes get too hot?
Totes are fine in normal summer heat, but the contents can heat up in a closed truck. Pack heat-sensitive items in a separate tote and keep them in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Is it cheaper to move in summer?
Usually not. Summer is peak season, and many movers charge more from May through September. Booking early and choosing a weekday can help.
Questions about sizing, coverage, or what's included? Check our FAQ page or email info@nicetotesrental.com.