Summer is the busiest moving season of the year — and for good reason. School years wrap up, leases turn over, and the longer days make hauling boxes feel a little more manageable. But if you wait until June or July to start planning, you’ll likely find yourself competing for moving trucks, scrambling for packing supplies, and wishing you’d started sooner. 

The good news? Starting in May gives you a real advantage. Here’s how to plan a smooth, stress-free summer move — one step at a time. 

Week 1–2 of May: Get Organized 

Before a single box is packed, spend the first couple of weeks getting your ducks in a row. 

• Confirm your move-out and move-in dates. Lock in your timeline with your current landlord and your new community so there’s no overlap — or gap — in your lease. 

• Set a moving budget. Factor in truck rental or movers, packing supplies, utility deposits, and a buffer for unexpected costs. 

• Start your inventory. Walk through your home and take note of large or fragile items that will need special handling. 

Week 3–4 of May: Book the Big Things 

Moving truck availability drops fast once summer hits. If you’re hiring movers or renting a truck, book in May — not June. 

• Get at least 2–3 quotes from moving companies or truck rental services. 

• Ask about weekend vs. weekday pricing (weekday moves are often cheaper). 

• Confirm elevator reservations and loading dock access with your new apartment community. 

• Schedule utility transfers for your move-in date — electricity, internet, and renter’s insurance should all be set up before you arrive. 

Early June: Start Packing (Seriously) 

Most people underestimate how long packing takes. A good rule of thumb: start with the rooms you use least — guest rooms, storage closets, seasonal items — and work your way toward everyday essentials. 

• Label every box with its contents and destination room. 

• Use color-coded tape or markers per room to make unloading faster. 

• Pack a “first night” box with everything you’ll need before the rest is unpacked: phone charger, toiletries, a change of clothes, snacks, and bedding. 

Moving Week: Stay Calm and Delegate 

By the time moving week arrives, the hard work should already be done. 

• Do a final walkthrough of your old unit and document its condition with photos. 

• Keep important documents — lease agreements, IDs, moving receipts — in a bag you carry personally. 

• Communicate clearly with your movers or helpers about where everything goes so you’re not making decisions on the fly. 

Settling In: The First Week in Your New Home 

Moving day is just the beginning. Give yourself grace during the first week — you don’t have to unpack everything at once. 

• Introduce yourself to neighbors and explore the community amenities. 

• Test all appliances and report any maintenance needs to your leasing office early. 

• Update your address with the USPS, your bank, employer, and any subscriptions. 

The Bottom Line 

A smooth summer move doesn’t happen by accident — it happens because you planned ahead. Starting in May means you’ll have more options, less stress, and more time to actually enjoy your new home once you get there. 

Looking for your next apartment in Texas? Explore REEP Residential communities →