Peak season, the time between April and September when over 80 percent of people move, is upon us again. As such, it’s when most companies tackle any big expansion or relocation initiatives to accommodate employees’ personal needs. Not so coincidentally, it’s also when HR professionals feel as though there aren’t enough hours in the day. Coordinating so many moves can make for an overwhelming and stressful summer if the proper planning isn’t taken into consideration.

Here are some tips to ensure your peak season is as smooth as possible for everyone involved.

TRANSPARENCY IS KEY (SO EXPECT A LOT OF QUESTIONS)

If you have a large relocation campaign scheduled for this summer, chances are the entire organization is well aware by now. However, as the move draws closer, you should expect to receive a surge of questions, like “what does our relocation package cover?” Be sure to share all the details of your company’s relocation policy and other move details in multiple ways (e.g., town-hall meetings, emails, intranet posts, etc.) so there’s clear communication.

GET YOUR SURVEY DONE ASAP

It’s imperative you get an in-home survey so you have an accurate idea of how much your move will cost. (DO NOT trust instant online move quotes.) You can request a free in-home survey on our website. Depending on the size of your home, we might even be able to do a virtual estimate via your phone or tablet in a matter of hours. Give us a call to see if your home is eligible.

STAY FLEXIBLE

Peak season typically is the busiest period for professional moving companies, and not surprisingly, desirable times like the weekend fill up fast. When it comes to scheduling, it’s good advice for employees to book their move as early as possible; but in general, staying flexible will make the whole process significantly easier for them. If they can help it, encourage employees to book their load and delivery dates in the middle of the week.

HIRE THE RIGHT MOVING COMPANY

Often, the best way to ensure employees are taken care of and to alleviate the stress of moving a large office is to hire professionals. The right moving company not only will get your employees’ belongings safely to their new homes, but they also can assist your HR team with logistical issues and help ensure your company’s budget and timeline are met.

STAGGER MOVE PHASES INTO THE FALL

The reason most families move during the summer is because of school breaks and vacation schedules. But not every employee either has children or vacations during the summer. If it’s a possibility, staggering your company’s relocation into the fall can lessen the load across your organization. It’s fewer moves for you to manage at one time, summer-move employees aren’t competing as much for desirable dates and those who delay can move during a calmer time.

KEEP US IN THE LOOP

We are here to help you. Something unexpected come up? Forgot you need to move a vehicle too? Call your move coordinator as soon as possible so we can help make the necessary adjustments. The sooner we know, the better we can help you get where you’re going!

Four Tips to Help Make a Summer Move Easy on Children

According to a Rent.com survey, 69 percent of families have moved to a new home at least once during their children’s lifetime. Many of those moves happen during the summer, often to avoid the stress of switching schools midyear. However, a summer move can come with its own challenges, especially when it comes to acclimating children to a new environment and making new friends.

Before your move, keep children informed to give them time to adjust to the idea of moving. Then, as the move date approaches involve them in the process with appropriate responsibilities during the move such as helping to pack their own room.

Make the move easier on your children once you get to your new home with these tips:

• Do your research before you move: Put together a list of fun activities in your new town to help make your children familiar with their new environment. Then follow through on those activities and check them off together as you complete them.
• Sign up for summer camps in your area: While school is out, summer camps can be a great way to get the kids out of the house (so you can unpack) while also giving them an opportunity to make new friends.
• Set up a time to check out new schools: Make arrangements to tour your new school with your child before the hectic school year starts. This can be a great time to introduce yourself to staff and teachers in a more relaxed setting.
• Don’t wait for your neighbors to come to you: Make an effort to meet your neighbors, especially the ones with children. Introduce yourself, ask about upcoming neighborhood events and offer to host playdates at your house once you’ve unpacked.

It might feel like you’ll have to wait for the school year to start to get your kids out of the house after a summertime move, but with a few simple steps you can make the transition much easier on your children.

Plan ahead and go slow!

Life sneaks up on all of us, so don’t panic or beat yourself up if you haven’t made any preparations for your upcoming move this summer. Take a breath, and then get started with scheduling your in-home estimates so you can figure out the details to your move!

Contact us today for more information!

George Roth Author