Planning a Smooth Move During Peak Season: What Families Need to Know

If you’re planning an international move during the summer months, you’re not alone.

Summer is the global peak season for moving, especially in the northern hemisphere, where families take advantage of school holidays and annual leave. In Australia and the southern hemisphere, the trend is flipped—with December and January seeing the highest demand for the same reasons.

Whether you’re moving across continents or to a neighboring country, understanding this seasonality is key to avoiding last-minute stress and unnecessary costs.

Here’s how to navigate the busy season like a pro.

Book Early—Really Early

The best moving companies fill up fast during peak months. If you’re planning to move between May and September in the northern hemisphere (or December to February down south), aim to confirm your mover at least 8–12 weeks in advance.

Booking early gives you better:

  • Scheduling options

  • Packing and shipping rates

  • Availability of special services (like storage, pet relocation, or fine art handling)

It also gives you time to plan for the unexpected—like changes in visa timelines, housing delays, or customs paperwork.

Build a Family-Centered Moving Checklist

Moving with children? A checklist tailored to your family can ease the transition and reduce friction. Here are some essentials to include:

8–12 weeks before move:

  • Lock in your international mover (request a full in-home or virtual survey)

  • Notify your child’s school of the move and gather transcripts

  • Begin sorting, donating, or selling unwanted items

6 weeks before move:

  • Begin packing non-essentials (seasonal clothes, books, decor)

  • Schedule medical check-ups and collect records

  • Research schools and childcare options in your destination city

4 weeks before move:

  • Finalize housing arrangements

  • Arrange insurance for valuables and travel

  • Confirm travel dates and pet relocation plans

2 weeks before move:

  • Pack essentials for arrival (a “first week” box for each family member)

  • Back up important documents digitally

  • Say your goodbyes and schedule family transition rituals

Arrival support:

  • Enroll children in local activities to help with social integration

  • Explore the neighborhood together to establish new routines

  • Consider temporary housing until your shipment arrives

Go Beyond Boxes: Full Relocation Support with Silk Relo

At Asian Tigers, we understand that a move is never just about packing up and shipping out. It’s about transitioning every part of your life—career, family, home, education, and daily routines.

That’s why our sister company, Silk Relo, offers end-to-end relocation support beyond logistics. Their team specializes in:

  • Home search and tenancy management

  • School and childcare placement

  • Settling-in services and cultural orientation

  • Visa and immigration coordination

  • Departure services from your origin country

Silk Relo is your partner in making the destination feel like home from day one—while Asian Tigers takes care of every item that gets you there.

Learn more: www.silkrelo.com

Final Tip: Don’t Just Move—Plan the Whole Experience

Moving during peak season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With enough lead time, a detailed family plan, and the right partners by your side, you can turn a logistical challenge into a life opportunity.

Whether you’re shipping across Asia or starting a new chapter abroad, Asian Tigers and Silk Relo are here to make sure your move is as smooth as the destination is exciting.

Let’s get moving—together.