If you’re reading this, you probably found out recently (maybe even today!) that you’re going to be moving long distance. Perhaps it’s for a new job, a new school opportunity, or to be closer to your family. And, you’ve decided to use a long distance moving company. You’re likely wondering: “how far in advance should I book movers?”
At National Van Lines, we have helped families move long distance for nearly 100 years, and we’re here to help educate you on the positive impacts that early booking has on your own long distance move. By the end of this blog, you’ll know:.
- Why booking early matters
- How season and distance change your timeline
- How far in advance to plan for your move
- Practical steps to secure your dates
Why Does Booking Early Matter for Long Distance Moving?
Booking movers is a lot like booking flights or a hotel for a busy holiday weekend. If you wait too long, you’ll either pay more or find that the best dates are already gone. The first people to plan get the most choices. The last people to plan get what is left.
When you reach out early, you can:
- Choose dates that match your schedule
- Compare reputable companies without pressure
- Pace your packing and paperwork
If you delay, you may face limited options, rushed decisions, and a timeline that doesn’t fit your needs.
How Do Season and Distance Change When I Should Book my Move?
Moving has busy periods and slower periods, and distance adds another layer. Summer is the height of demand (also known as peak season). Families try to move when school is out, and many leases end near the end of a month. Weekends fill first. Holidays and the last week of the year also tighten schedules. During these windows, trucks and crews are requested months in advance.
Distance matters too. If you’re moving across the country, movers need more time to plan the trip, so it’s best to book earlier. Shorter interstate moves can sometimes be easier to schedule, but they still fill up during busy times. If your move is in late June, around Labor Day, or at the end of the month, try to book even earlier than usual.
Recommended Booking Windows by Season and Distance
So how early should you book your long distance movers? The answer depends on both the time of year and the distance of your move. Here’s a quick guide to help you plan:
The bottom line: the farther you’re moving and the busier the season, the more notice you should give your movers.
Notes for Special Timing
Beyond season and distance, a few special situations can also affect how early you need to book.
- Month ends and weekends: Even in off-peak months, the last week of the month and Saturdays book first. If you need one of those slots, shift to the higher end of the ranges above.
- School calendars and corporate relocations: Late May through mid-August is busy in many markets. Corporate relocations often cluster in summer as well. If you are moving during this stretch, use the longest lead times in the table.
- Weather and holidays: Winter storms can tighten capacity in certain regions. Holiday weeks like Thanksgiving and New Year see fewer crews on the road. Plan farther ahead for those windows.
How Can I Make Sure I Get the Dates I Want?
Don’t wait until every detail of your move is locked in. Pick two or three reputable companies to check availability and ask any questions you might have. These “quick wins” will give you a more accurate picture of how busy your moving date might be… and keeps you from being caught off guard.
Once your date is set, book right away. Movers confirm your spot after you place a deposit, and the most popular days won’t stay open long. If you can, aim for:
- Mid-week moves (Tues–Thurs)
- Mid-month dates instead of month-end
Both are usually less crowded and easier to secure.
Flexibility can also make things easier. A one- or two-day pickup window gives movers more room to fit you in and may save you from paying extra for a tough date. But remember: nothing replaces booking early. The best approach is to combine both flexibility and planning.
What If My Moving Timeline Is Tight?
Life happens, and sometimes, you don’t get a lot of advance notice you’ll be moving. Maybe a job start date came up suddenly, or your lease ended sooner than you thought. If that’s you, pick up the phone immediately. Share your ideal dates, then ask:
- Are there nearby dates that are still open?
- Would shifting by a day or two free up a truck already headed my way?
During busy months, you may need to widen your pickup window or pick a mid-week slot. Be ready to confirm quickly once a mover offers a time, or it may be gone.
Your Long Distance Move Starts Now
Securing your long distance movers is one of the most important steps in planning a long distance relocation, and it sets the tone for everything that follows. Families who schedule early often feel calmer and more in control, with the time to plan a move that truly fits their needs and goals. Booking movers in advance also creates space to pack without rushing, to manage paperwork in order, and to shape your move around what works best for your household. Instead of scrambling to fit into what is left, you can move forward on your terms.
A long distance move is also the start of something new. Whether you are relocating for a career, family, or a fresh start in a new city, booking early allows you to focus on the most exciting part of the journey: settling into your new home and beginning the next chapter with joy.
You just learned that when booking a long distance move, earlier is better. But, who is the best option to pick? Read all about how to analyze reviews like a pro in our piece on how to choose a long distance moving company you can trust.
