Published: June 15, 2025

Smart Tips for Moving to Northern NJ in the Summer

Thinking about moving to Northern NJ in the summer? You’re not alone. Summer is a popular season for relocating, and North Jersey is a fantastic place to settle, whether you’re drawn to its bustling suburbs, proximity to New York City, or charming downtowns. But moving in the summer heat and during the busiest time of the year can be challenging. From traffic to timing, there’s a lot to consider. This list of smart tips will help make your summer move to Northern New Jersey smoother, cooler, and a lot less stressful.

Plan Ahead—Summer Is Peak Moving Season

It’s no secret that summer is the most popular time to move. The weather is better, school is out, and most leases turn over mid-year. That also means moving services book up fast. If you’re moving to Northern New Jersey in the summer, try to book everything at least 6–8 weeks in advance. The earlier you plan, the better your chances of locking in your ideal moving date and price.

Avoid Rush Hour Traffic

Northern New Jersey is known for many things—beautiful parks, great food, and… heavy traffic. Highways like I-80, the Garden State Parkway, and I-287 can get especially congested during rush hour or holiday weekends. When scheduling your move, try to avoid peak traffic times. Early mornings or midday moves are usually best. 

Prepare for the Heat

One of the biggest challenges of moving to Northern NJ in the summer is the weather. While summer days can be beautiful, temperatures often climb into the high 80s or 90s, especially in July and August. Combine that with physical activity and you’ve got a recipe for burnout. Make sure to stay hydrated, wear light, breathable clothing, and take breaks in the shade. Keep a cooler with water bottles and snacks handy on moving day. If possible, move heavy or fragile items early in the day before the sun is at its strongest.

Use Portable Storage to Stay Flexible

Flexibility is key when moving during a busy season. One smart way to keep things stress-free is by renting a portable storage container from UNITS® of Northern NJ. You can have a container delivered right to your driveway. Pack at your own pace, and have it transported when you’re ready. This is especially helpful if there’s a gap between your move-out and move-in dates, or if you’re still finalizing housing. It also means fewer trips back and forth, and no need to rush everything into a truck in a single day.

Budget for Summer Moving Costs

Because demand is high in the summer, moving costs often go up, so be sure to factor in peak-season rates when creating your budget. To save money, consider mid-week or mid-month moves, which are often less expensive than weekends. Look out for deals on moving supplies or discounts from local service providers. And remember, if you’re moving to Northern NJ in the summer, you might also be competing with students and renters for rentals, so act quickly and stay organized.

Explore Your New Neighborhood Early

One of the best parts of moving to Northern NJ in the summer is having time to explore while the weather’s nice. Take evening walks, visit local parks, or try out that pizzeria down the block. From Montclair to Morristown, the region is filled with lively downtowns, farmers markets, outdoor festivals, and local events. Getting to know your new surroundings early will help you feel settled faster and give you a chance to enjoy what North Jersey has to offer right away.

Moving to Northern NJ in the summer comes with its share of challenges, but with the right plan, it can be a smooth and exciting transition. Start early, stay cool, and make smart choices like using portable storage to keep your move on track.

Need a stress-free way to move to Northern Jersey? Visit  UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Northern NJ or call (973) 554-3431 today!