Rochester Summer Moving Guide

Planning Ahead: The Key to Summer Success

Summer (June through August) is peak moving season in Rochester, with approximately 40% of all annual moves happening during these months. This high demand creates several challenges that require advance planning:

Book Early

Summer moves in Rochester require significantly more advance booking than other seasons. While winter moves might need only 2-3 weeks' notice, summer moves—especially weekend dates—should be booked 8-10 weeks in advance. By early July, most quality moving companies have very limited weekend availability.

Anticipate Higher Costs

Summer moves typically cost 15-20% more than winter moves and 5-10% more than spring/fall moves due to the significantly higher demand. However, you can reduce these costs by:

• Booking mid-week (Tuesday-Thursday) for 10-15% savings
• Scheduling early morning time slots (7-10am)
• Moving during early June or late August when demand is slightly lower than peak July

Summer Moving Timeline

For a successful Rochester summer move, follow this timeline:

• 8-10 Weeks Before: Book your moving company and start researching utility transfers
• 6 Weeks Before: Schedule utility transfers (especially important for ensuring AC is available)
• 4 Weeks Before: Begin packing non-essentials and heat-sensitive items
• 2 Weeks Before: Confirm all reservations and prepare your heat management strategy
• 1 Week Before: Finalize packing and prepare a summer essentials box

Beat the Rochester Heat: Summer Moving Strategies

Rochester summers can be surprisingly hot and humid, with July and August averaging 80-85°F and humidity levels reaching 70%. These conditions create challenges for both people and possessions during a move.

Timing Is Everything

The time of day you choose for your summer move can make a dramatic difference:

• Early Morning (7-10am): Optimal time with temperatures 10-15°F cooler than afternoon peaks
• Evening (6-8pm): A decent alternative, though daylight becomes limited by 8:30pm in late summer
• Avoid Midday (12-4pm): Rochester's temperatures and humidity peak during these hours, making moves significantly more challenging

If possible, schedule your move for early morning. Move It Along offers 7am start times specifically for summer moves to help beat the heat.

Protecting Heat-Sensitive Items

Several types of belongings require special attention during hot summer moves:

• Electronics: Heat can damage internal components. Transport in air-conditioned vehicles when possible, pack in double boxes, and mark as "HEAT SENSITIVE"
• Vinyl Records, CDs, DVDs: Can warp in extreme heat. Transport in your air-conditioned vehicle
• Candles, Crayons, Cosmetics: May melt in hot moving trucks
• Medications: Keep with you in a temperature-controlled environment

Stay Hydrated and Cool

For your personal comfort and safety during a summer move:

• Prepare water stations at both your old and new homes
• Use cooling towels (specialty towels that stay cool when wet)
• Set up fans at doorways to improve air circulation
• Wear light, breathable clothing and sun protection
• Take regular breaks in air-conditioned or shaded areas

Rochester-Specific Summer Considerations

Festival Impact on Moving

Rochester's summer features numerous festivals that can significantly impact moves in specific neighborhoods. These events can make moving nearly impossible due to street closures, limited parking, and heavy traffic:

• Rochester Jazz Festival (June) - Avoid moves in East End/Downtown
• Park Ave Festival (August) - Park Ave area becomes extremely difficult
• Corn Hill Arts Festival (July) - Avoid Corn Hill neighborhood moves
• Independence Day Weekend - Downtown and Charlotte areas have limited access

Check the City of Rochester events calendar when planning your summer move to avoid scheduling conflicts with major festivals.

Summer Construction

Rochester's construction season peaks in summer, affecting moving routes and access. Common areas for summer roadwork include:

• I-490 corridor and ramps
• East Avenue and Monroe Avenue corridors
• Brighton and Pittsford see extensive roadwork July-September
• Downtown Rochester infrastructure projects

Check the Monroe County Road Projects Map a few days before your move to plan alternate routes if needed.

Neighborhood-Specific Tips

Different Rochester neighborhoods present unique summer moving challenges:

• Park Avenue: Limited parking, high demand. Early morning moves are strongly recommended, and avoid festival weekends entirely.
• South Wedge: Narrow streets with limited shade. Thursday farmers markets affect parking.
• East Avenue: Historic homes often lack central AC, making interior work more challenging. Watch for summer events.
• Downtown/East End: Reserve freight elevators 3-4 weeks in advance during summer.
• College Town/Brighton: Avoid late August when thousands of students return to nearby universities.

Summer Thunderstorms

Rochester averages 30 thunderstorm days per year, primarily in summer between 2-7pm. Have plastic covers/tarps ready for quick furniture protection. Most quality moving companies, including Move It Along, offer flexible rescheduling for severe weather events.

Summer Moving Essentials

Prepare a special summer moving day kit with these essential items:

• Bottled water (1 gallon per person)
• Cooling towels
• Portable fans (battery-operated)
• Sunscreen and hats
• Light, breathable clothing
• Basic first aid supplies
• Electrolyte drink packets
• Shower curtain and rings (for immediate use at new home)
• Box fan for each bedroom (especially important for older Rochester homes without central AC)

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book a summer move in Rochester?

For weekend moves during June-August, book 8-10 weeks in advance. For weekday moves, 6-8 weeks is recommended. The end/beginning of months and early morning time slots fill first and may require even more advance notice.

What happens if there's a severe thunderstorm on my moving day?

Most reputable Rochester moving companies, including Move It Along, have severe weather policies that allow rescheduling at no additional cost if dangerous conditions are forecast. For scattered thunderstorms, experienced movers can often work around them by adjusting the schedule.

Are there additional costs for summer moves?

Yes, summer moves in Rochester typically cost 15-20% more than winter moves due to high demand. However, you can mitigate these costs by booking mid-week, scheduling early morning slots, and securing your reservation well in advance.

How do I manage without AC immediately after moving?

Rochester's older homes (especially in Park Ave, East Ave, and South Wedge) often lack central air conditioning. Plan to have portable fans ready, schedule utilities to be connected a day before your move, and consider portable AC units for essential rooms if moving during peak summer heat.