As the calendar turns to October and the days begin to shorten, planning a move becomes a little different. At Chief Moving Company, we’ve helped countless San Diego clients through moves of all sizes—and we know the shift in daylight and temperature can change what you’ll want to consider. In this guide, we’ll walk you through key tips to make your relocation smoother, safer, and better aligned with the season.
1. Be Mindful of Daylight Hours
In October, daylight begins to fade more quickly. That means less time after work or on weekends to wrap up tasks outside. To stay ahead:
- Schedule moving tasks (packing outdoor items, disassembling large furniture) during daylight hours whenever possible.
- Reserve your moving window early—late afternoon and early evening slots will become more popular as the days shorten.
- Ensure your new home is well‑lit. If you’ll arrive after dark, bring or request extra lighting so your movers can finish safely.
2. Consider the Temperature Shift
While San Diego remains mild compared to many parts of the country, cooler nights and early mornings in October can still impact your move. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Pack or move delicate items (electronics, artwork, houseplants) earlier in the day when temperatures are warmer.
- Store items dry overnight. If your new residence is empty and only partially furnished, turn on any available HVAC or de‑humidifier to prevent moisture issues.
- For large items that remain outdoors or in transitional spaces overnight, cover them or wrap them to protect against cooler air and potential overnight condensation.
3. Adjust Your Packing Strategy
Seasonal shifts mean your packing checklist might need some tweaks:
- Swap out summer gear (patio furniture cushions, fans, pool toys) and store them ahead of time so they don’t clog your moving schedule.
- Label boxes based on when they’ll be unpacked. For example, “Night 1 Essentials” should include a lamp, bedding, a change of clothes, and phone‑charger – stuff you’ll need even if you arrive after dark.
- Use weather‑proof moving blankets or covers for items that may be on the truck overnight or exposed during loading/unloading.
4. Schedule With Seasonal Factors in Mind
Working with a professional moving company that understands the regional tempo makes a big difference. Here’s how timing matters in October:
- Mid‑week or early in the month often offers better availability and lower complexity than weekend moves later in the month.
- Verify the moving route and parking at both origin and destination—shorter daylight means fewer opportunities to troubleshoot unexpected access issues once it’s dark.
- Consider loading during daylight and scheduling the delivery later—this option offers more flexibility while your movers handle the heavier work when light is still available.
5. Safety and Comfort for Your Move Team
Your move goes more smoothly when everyone involved—especially your movers—has good footing and functioning equipment. In October, this means:
- Clearing walkways of clutter or rake‑up early if you’re moving from a yard with fallen leaves or debris.
- Ensuring exterior lighting is working. If stairs, porches or paths to your new home are poorly lit at dusk, consider portable lighting or verify the property’s lights work.
- Providing water, coffee or hot refreshments if the morning is cool—your moving team will appreciate it, and it sets a good tone for the day.
6. Post‑Move Considerations
Once you’re in your new space, the shift to cooler nights means you’ll want to wrap up certain tasks quickly:
- Unpack essentials first so you’re not scrambling in the dark or cold on your first night.
- Check heating or air‑conditioning systems early, so if any service is needed you can schedule it before winter fully settles in.
- Check your inventory and layout while daylight is still good—the sooner you know where everything is, the easier your next days will be.
Contact Us for a Smooth Move This Season
At Chief Moving Company, we understand the unique challenges of moving during the shorter days and cooler nights of October in the San Diego region. Our trained, professional team handles every step—from packing to delivery—with care so you can relax and focus on your new beginning.
Contact us today for a free quote and let us help you make your October move smooth, safe, and stress‑free.