Summer is peak moving season. In fact, an estimated 80 percent of moves take place between April and September. With more people moving to Maricopa County than anywhere else in the U.S., countless transplants from all over the country will be dealing with sweltering summer temperatures during their move.
Many moving families underestimate the brutality of the Valley’s summer rays. Moving in the summer without preparation can lead to heat exhaustion, fainting, dehydration, muscle fatigue, heat stroke, loss of energy and more. So how can you keep your cool – literally – when moving homes in 100+ degree temperatures?
North Phoenix-based Muscular Moving Men & Storage is used to making big moves in the summer heat. For those families doing the labor themselves, Muscular Moving Men & Storage President Justin Hodge recommends taking the following precautions:
1. Move Larger Items in the Early Morning
While it might be tough to get out of bed before 6 a.m., being up before the sun means you will get less exposure to brutal temperatures. Move larger, more strenuous items like cabinets, couches, dressers and mattresses first thing in the morning to avoid expending too much energy in hot temps. The sun is most potent in the afternoon, so try to wrap up your move before noon, if possible.
2. Wear the Right Type of Clothing
Choosing the right moving day outfit is essential to the ease of your move. Loose, lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are preferred to synthetic fabrics like polyester and rayon. Avoid wearing dark colors like black and navy blue, as they will absorb more sunlight. Be mindful to protect the body parts that will get most exposure to the sun – your head, face and shoulders. A hat made of breathable fabric, sunglasses and a shirt with sleeves are essential, in addition to a strong SPF sunscreen.
3. Prepare a Cooler with Water and Cold Towels
While it might seem pesky to carry around a cooler while you uproot your home, you will be thankful you did. Keep a cooler filled with ice, bottled water and clean towels. Staying hydrated is of course a must. You should drink about four cups of water every hour while working in temperatures from 103-115, according to OSHA. Ice cold, damp towels are a refreshing way to cool down, but they can also be used in the event that someone on your move team starts to show signs of heat exhaustion.
4. Make Sure Utilities Are on in Your New Home
After spending a day in the heat moving all of your belongings, the last place you want to end up is in a home without air conditioning or access to fans. Be sure that your electric, gas and water are turned on before moving into your new space.
5. Know Your Limitations
Know how to identify the signs of heat-related illness before you start your move. Symptoms include dizziness, weakness, muscle cramps, seizures, fainting, confusion, headaches and nausea. If you experience any of these symptoms, lie down in a cool, dark place and drink plenty of water before continuing your move.
If you don’t want to take on the stress of the summer move, you can always call in the professionals. Muscular Moving Men & Storage’s team of mover-athletes can take the move off your hands with a licensed, bonded, professional and customer-friendly approach.
Since summer is the most popular time to move, be sure to schedule your move well in advance. To schedule service or get an estimate from Muscular Moving Men & Storage, visit muscularmovingmen.com or call 877-434-8668.
