Did you know that moving house during the summer months can raise your body temperature by up to 10°F more than normal due to physical exertion under the sun? Although summer is generally a good time to move, with school vacations and more daylight, it has some serious health issues, primarily heat exhaustion and dehydration. Whether you're moving across the block or a new city, safety and hydration on the move are key to a trouble-free move.
Let's talk about some summer moving tips that will assist you in handling health, hydration, and heat successfully.

When you are working in the heat, such as lifting boxes, climbing stairs, or loading a truck, your body quickly loses water. That water loss causes dehydration, and moving can quickly become a dangerous combo. Signs of dehydration are dizziness, weakness, headache, and fainting. You don't want your moving day to be an emergency room visit.
 Have water bottles within easy reach and drink frequently throughout the day, and not just when thirsty. Being hydrated is not a one-time thing; it's a continuous process throughout summer moves.

What you wear on a moving day can make a significant difference. Dress loosely, light colored, light-breathing clothes such as cotton. Avoid dark shades that trap heat. This tiny but effective change will keep you cooler and stop overheating.
Utilize cooling towels or temperature-reducing wristbands also. Carry an umbrella or wear a wide-brimmed hat when working in the sun.

Attempt to schedule your move during early morning hours or late evening when temperatures are milder. This greatly minimizes exposure to high temperatures. Steer clear of the hottest part of the day, typically between 12 PM and 4 PM, when the sun is strongest.
Selecting the appropriate time can make your move in the summer heat a lot more tolerable. If possible, plan ahead and reserve those cooler periods in advance.

Though water should be the main source of hydration, it with fluid beverages that have electrolytes such as coconut water or sports drinks. Carry hydrating foods like fruit (watermelon, oranges, and grapes), yogurt, and smoothies to offer quick energy and hydration.
This is particularly relevant for moving with kids in summer. Dehydration is more common in children and they may not always know when they need to take a break. Make sure they take regular sips of water and are not out in the sun too long. 

• Water bottles
• Sunscreen
• Handheld fans
• Ice packs or cold compresses
• Light snacks
• Electrolyte powders
• Cooling towels

Having this kit ready will make you comfortable even when you're trudging through cardboard boxes.

All cannot take the heat. Be extra careful with older adults, pregnant women, and animals. If possible, apply summer relocation advice to older people, such as giving frequent rest, indoor stay during peak heat times, and easy access to cooling agents.
For pet companions, refer to suggestions on how to safely move pets in the summer heat. Always have water bowls, never leave parked cars with pets inside, and take them for a walk early morning or late evening. For distant relocation, use professional pet moving firms.

When overwhelmed with logistics, it's easy to overlook breaks. Short, frequent breaks are important for preventing heatstroke, though. Use a timer if needed, and make sure everyone takes a break every 30-45 minutes, especially when moving heavy objects or working outside. 
Watch for warning signs of heatstroke: red face, vomiting, confusion, and a fast pulse. If any or all of these signs appear, act right away—rest in a shaded area, hydrate, and visit a doctor if necessary.

Effective packing is also a matter of health. Don't overstuff the boxes and label the ones containing essential summer items properly. In your planning of the load, remember that packing for a summer move also means personal comfort items such as light clothing, towels, and a first-aid kit.
Pack electronics, medication, or heat-sensitive items in climate-controlled boxes or with you in a cooler bag.

Print out a summer moving checklist (don't forget hydration and health) before moving day. Thus, nothing that's crucial is left behind, from including water and first-aid kits in the boxes to making arrangements for rest breaks and taking care of pets and children.
Have this checklist handed out to your moving team, family members, or whoever is involved in the move. Preparation is the secret to preventing last-minute chaos and stress.

Stress and heat do not mix. Understand that things are unlikely to go exactly as you envisioned and give yourself and your family room to get used to. Mental health is as important as physical health when it comes to relocating.
If you can handle your own stress effectively, then you're also more capable of handling others, particularly moving with pets in summer or with children who may become so stressed.

Your summer move does not have to be a hot mess. A bit of planning, lots of water, and good handling of health and safety are all it takes to turn your summer move into a well-planned and successful experience.
At PM Relocations (PMR), we recognize the special challenges involved in moving during the heat. Our trained staff manage your summer move with care, comfort, and regard for your health. From packing to unpacking and everything in between, rely on PMR to move you safely, regardless of the season.