Published: June 01, 2025

Stay Cool During Your Summer Move

The summer heat is no joke. Scorching temperatures and relentless humidity can turn a summer move into a serious physical challenge, which can make it both exhausting and risky. But with proper planning and a few smart strategies, you can keep yourself and your belongings cool and safe throughout the moving process. This guide will walk you through practical tips for beating the heat during your summer move.

Start Early or Later in the Day

Avoid the peak heat by scheduling your move during the cooler hours of the day. Aim to start as early as possible, ideally before 9 a.m., when temperatures are still manageable. If a morning move isn’t an option, consider waiting until the late afternoon when the sun begins to set. Even a two-hour shift can make a big difference. Midday moves should be avoided if possible, as this is when the sun is the most intense.

Dress for the Weather

Wearing the right clothing makes a huge difference in how you feel throughout the moving process. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking athletic wear. Light-colored clothing reflects sunlight and helps keep your body cooler. Don’t forget to wear a wide-brimmed hat or a cap to protect your face and neck from the sun, and wear sunglasses and sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to avoid sunburn.

Stay Hydrated During Your Summer Move

Hydration is essential during any move, especially under the summer sun. Keep plenty of cold water on hand for yourself and anyone helping you with the move. Drink water regularly—even if you don’t feel thirsty—to prevent heat exhaustion. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, which can contribute to dehydration. For an extra boost, consider having sports drinks that replenish electrolytes that get lost through sweat.

Take Frequent Breaks

It’s tempting to power through the job to finish quickly, but that approach can be very dangerous in extreme heat. Take regular breaks in the shade or indoors with air conditioning. Use your breaks to rehydrate, cool off, and assess how you’re feeling. If you begin to feel dizzy, fatigued, or nauseous, it’s important to stop and rest immediately. Heat-related illnesses can sneak up on you much faster than you might expect.

Use Portable Storage to Minimize Heat Exposure

Instead of rushing to load and unload everything in one day, consider using a portable storage container. This allows you to pack at your own pace and avoid extended time in the heat. UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Jacksonville offers weather-resistant portable storage containers that can be delivered right to your home. You can load items in the early morning or evening, and take breaks whenever needed.

Protect Heat-Sensitive Items

Many items don’t fare well in extreme temperatures. Electronics, candles, cosmetics, and vinyl records are just a few things that can melt, warp, or get damaged during a hot move. Pack these items separately and keep them inside your air-conditioned vehicle if possible. Even short exposure to extreme heat can cause damage. For other valuables, consider transporting them during the coolest part of the day.

Cool Down Your New Home Before Unloading

Before you begin unloading, make sure your new home is ready. If possible, have the utilities turned on ahead of time so you can run the air conditioning. Even a 10-degree temperature drop indoors can significantly reduce stress and fatigue, making the entire move feel more manageable. Cooling down your home before moving in creates a comfortable environment where you can rest and recover after the move.

Use Cooling Accessories

Cooling towels, handheld fans, and neck wraps filled with ice or cooling gel can offer temporary relief during hot conditions. Even a spray bottle filled with water can help keep your body temperature in check. Small items like these can help you avoid heat exhaustion while maintaining your energy and productivity throughout the day. Store these items in a cooler or insulated bag so they stay ready to use.

Moving in the summer heat is a challenge, but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be miserable. By staying hydrated, dressing smart, using portable storage containers, and keeping a steady pace, your summer move can go off without a hitch. A little thoughtful planning and preparation now can mean a much smoother, cooler, and safer moving experience later on. Stay safe, stay cool, and enjoy your fresh start.

Looking for reliable moving services in Jacksonville? Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Jacksonville or call (904) 298-6939 today!