The short answer: as soon as you know your date. The longer answer depends on the season, the day of the week and how big your move is. Here is how much notice to give, from a Houston moving company that books moves all year.
How Far Ahead to Book, by Season
- Summer (May to August): the busiest time of year. Book a month or more ahead. Summer Saturdays go first, so give us at least 3 weeks for a June or July weekend.
- Spring and fall: 2 to 4 weeks is usually enough for a local move.
- Winter (outside the holidays): often a week or two, and sometimes less. Month-end and holiday weeks still fill up.
- Weekdays open up sooner than weekends in every season.
How Far Ahead to Book, by Type of Move
- Apartment or small home: the season matters more than the size. Follow the guide above.
- Larger homes, or moves with packing: add a week or two, because packing usually happens the day before the truck. See packing services.
- Long-distance moves: book 4 to 8 weeks ahead so pickup and delivery dates can be set in writing.
- Office moves: start 2 to 3 months ahead, since after-hours or weekend moves and building rules take planning. See office movers.
Why Booking Early Helps
- You get your date. The best crews and the popular days go first.
- Time for building and HOA rules. Apartments, condos and many HOAs require move reservations, elevator bookings or proof of insurance. Send them to your moving consultant early.
- Time to add packing or storage if your closing dates do not line up. See moving and storage.
The Best Days and Times to Move in Houston
Monday through Thursday is usually easiest to book, and from May through August, Monday to Wednesday moves with Blue Ox run $15 an hour less. Early morning starts beat the afternoon heat and give you the rest of the day to settle in.
How Booking Works With Blue Ox
- Get a free estimate. In-home, video call or phone. See how our estimates work.
- Get your written quote, usually the same day.
- Book with a $100 deposit. It holds your date and is refunded if you cancel at least 72 hours before your move.
- Your dates in writing. We confirm pickup and delivery dates when you book. If your closing or lease date shifts, call your moving consultant and we rebook.
Getting organized? Start with our local move checklist and how to change your utilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book movers?
Book as soon as you know your date. In summer, book a month or more ahead, and at least 3 weeks for a June or July weekend. In spring and fall, 2 to 4 weeks is usually enough for a local move.
What is the busiest time to move in Houston?
Summer, from May through August, especially weekends and the end of the month.
Can I book a move on short notice?
Often, yes, especially on weekdays and outside of summer. Call a moving consultant at (832) 934-2583 to check dates.
How do I hold my moving date with Blue Ox?
A $100 deposit holds your date. It is refunded if you cancel at least 72 hours before your move.
Get a Free Moving Estimate
Fill out the short form or call (832) 934-2583 Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. or Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. A moving consultant sends your written quote, usually the same day.
