Written by Move and Care Team
Edited and Fact Checked by Taras Kim
Updated: January 12, 2025
Getting ready to move? Then be prepared for a lot more boxes than you planned and you'll regret the amount of stuff you have in the process! Each item will take time to pack, take up space on the truck, and add to the cost of the move.
The cost of movers in Austin can add up quickly. However, there is an easy way to save money without doing much or anything extra. It is to choose the cheapest day to hire movers. In most cases, these are weekdays. Especially: Tuesday and Wednesday. These are the most profitable days for moving!
In this guide, we will look at how to saving money on moving. We back up all the information in this guide with statistics and industry insights. We will help you make an informed decision to hire Austin movers!
Why Does Timing Matter for Moving Costs?
Don't think that the time factor plays a small role in the total amount of the move. Moving companies' rates are highly dependent on demand and on the cycle. Understanding how things work will help you save a noticeable amount of money.
Weekends and the end of the month - this is usually the most expensive time to hire movers. Most people schedule their moves for this time because it is the most convenient and free time. Additionally, in Austin, rental renewals as well as closings often occur at the beginning or end of the month. This creates peak demand.
Similarly, the summer months, especially closer to September, are the most expensive. Many families, students move during this time as it is associated with vacations and the start of the school year. Demand becomes extremely high, movers have a lot of work to do and the schedule becomes jammed, so movers can raise the price.
🗣 For weekend moves, especially Saturday moves, movers may charge extra - 15-20% higher than on quieter days of the week.
It is quite different for moves with lower demand. Mid-week and mid-month is the ideal time to move. Moving in the winter (outside of the vacations), late fall or early spring, will also allow you to save well. Movers during these periods are much more flexible and are even willing to lower the price of the move to take up available schedules.
Cheapest Days to Hire Movers in Austin
And so, if you’re wondering what day of the week is best to move, the answer is straightforward: weekdays, particularly Tuesdays and Wednesdays. These days regularly give great deals to hire movers in Austin. This is thanks to fewer requests.
Opting for a mid-month move can save you up to 15%. In addition, there is an off-peak season: this season lasts from October to April. During this time, movers have more availability. You can save up to 25%.
| Factor | High-Cost Period | Low-Cost Period | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day of the Week | Weekends (Fri–Sun) | Midweek (Tue–Wed) | Up to 15–20% |
| Time of Month | Start/End (1st–5th, 25th+) | Mid-Month (10th–20th) | Up to 10–15% |
| Season | Summer (May–Sept) | Winter (Oct–April) | Up to 25% |
For example, moving on a Tuesday in mid-January will cost you $800 for your two-bedroom apartment, also the movers are likely to be much more flexible and ready for unexpected situations and schedule changes. A Saturday move in July could come out closer to $1,000. Moreover, such a move will have to be scheduled well in advance, at least 3-4 weeks before the move.
💡 Pro Tip: Move in the early morning! The movers will be in much better condition and not overworked. This way you will have more confidence in a successful move.
Cost-Saving Tips for Austin Residents
You can save money on your Austin moving expenses. You don't have to complicate anything. There are some smart tactics and local specifics. They will help you keep your costs down. More importantly, they will help you make your move as stress-free as possible. Here are some proven money-saving strategies:
1. Book Early to Lock in the Best Rates
Usually movers in Austin advise booking services at least 4-6 weeks in advance. Especially during peak seasons and events such as SXSW! Early booking is not only about availability, it's also about discounts. Urgent moves almost always mean higher rates. That's why you should try to book your move.
2. Declutter Strategically Before Your Move
Move less, pay less. Clean up, donate and sell your excess items. Decluttering before moving is a great way to save money. You can donate or sell items on online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, and in Austin there are places to donate items: Goodwill Central Texas, Austin Habitat for Humanity ReStore or Salvation Army.
By reducing the amount of stuff, you'll have less time spent working with movers and thus reduce the cost.
3. Consider Flat-Rate Pricing Options
Many movers in Austin provide fixed prices for long distance moves. Alternatively, they are willing to negotiate. This is especially true if your move is extensive. This strategy can be a great way to avoid unexpected costs. Always remember to compare rates and always require a clear description of what is included in the flat rate.
4. Avoid Moving During Major Austin Events
Holiday community and local events (like Austin City Limits (ACL) or SXSW) can significantly affect traffic. The movers may spend much more time on the road, which in turn will affect the price. Consider planning your move with these dates in mind. This will help you save money and avoid delays.
5. Local Moving Companies
Consider moving with a small moving company. Austin is becoming an extremely popular place to relocate. There are many young companies operating in the city. These companies have a much smaller client base, but they also have licenses and professional movers like the big moving companies. Therefore, unlike large companies, they often do not increase their rates much on days of demand, and are more flexible and willing to negotiate.
💡 Pro Tip: Most importantly, check the company for a license (look for it on the FMCSA's website), and read reviews carefully. It is convenient to search for local companies on Thumbtack and Yelp. Get multiple quotes and compare them against each other, pay attention to the extra spending. A lower hourly rate does not mean a lower final price.
Pros and Cons of Moving on Specific Days
| Factor | Weekdays (Mon–Fri) | Weekends (Sat–Sun) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower rates (save up to 20%). | Higher rates due to high demand (up to 20% more expensive). |
| Mover Availability | More flexible scheduling and open slots. | Limited slots; popular times fill up quickly. |
| Traffic in Austin | Heavy rush hour traffic during mornings and evenings. | Lighter traffic, especially mid-morning and early afternoon. |
| Utility Services | Easier to schedule same-day setups for electricity, water, and internet. | Limited utility company availability; delays more likely. |
| Work/School Impact | May require taking time off work or school to accommodate the move. | No work or school disruptions; more time to coordinate the move. |
| Help Availability | Friends and family may not be available to assist. | Friends and family are more likely to be free to help. |
| Local Events | Fewer disruptions from Austin events or festivals. | Traffic congestion from events like ACL or football games can cause delays. |
Factors Impacting Moving Costs in Austin
The factors that affect the cost of moving in Austin are many. These include the distance, size, and time of the move. In addition, there are additional services and terms and conditions of the moving company, such as having a deposit, elevator tapping can increase the price, etc.
1. Distance:
Austin is a big city. A long move, encountering traffic increases the distance and therefore the moving time. Especially if you're talking about a long distance move to, for example, another state, then here distance becomes the most important and key factor in moving costs.
2. Add-On Services:
Additional services increase the cost. Need help packing? Transportation to and then from storage? This will mean an increase in price. Moving a piano, for example, will also be considered a separate service. Some movers will assemble and disassemble furniture for a separate fee. And many other things. All these questions should be clarified with each specific company, taking into account the peculiarities of your move.
3. Time of Year:
Summer (June–September) is the busiest and most expensive time to move due to high demand and the heat. Moving in the off-peak months (October–April) can save you money and make the process easier.
This was the subject of our article. Let's repeat it again: summer is the busiest time of year. This period spans from June to September. Demand is high. Costs are raised as well.
Consider moving in off-peak months. These comprise of October to April. Doing so could save you money. This can also potentially ease the moving process.
📖 For a detailed breakdown of moving costs in Austin, including what’s included in the rate, check out our full guide on moving costs in Austin.
Conclusion
Timing is crucial for saving money when hiring movers in Austin. You can save up to 25% of the cost! The most budget-friendly move is on midweek days. These include Tuesday or Wednesday. Avoid weekends if you want to reduce the cost of the move.
Good options are the mid-month and off-peak months. These months last from October through April. To keep costs down, book in advance. Consider a fixed price option. Plan your move and schedule your move around Austin's unique traffic patterns and events. Always research local movers, get multiple quotes, and make sure you are really getting the best price.
Make your Austin move affordable. Make it stress-free. Happy moving!
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