Beat the Heat on Moving Day in New Orleans

If you’re going to move, chances are it will be during summer if you’re like most Americans. However, if you don't plan around the scorching temperatures, moving during the summer can be an unpleasant experience, especially down south. Here are several tips to make moving day more tolerable in New Orleans:

1. Turn On Utilities Prior to the Move

Speak to your apartment community's leasing office to get the contact information for the local utility companies and arrange to have your utilities turned on before moving day. You won't want to move your possessions into a hot apartment. If possible, turn down the air conditioning in your apartment the night before your move to ensure a comfortable temperature (and much welcomed escape from the heat) on moving day.

2. Avoid Peak Temperatures

An early morning move is ideal as it will allow you to get a jump start on your day and avoid the scorching hot temperatures. Make a point to not schedule your move between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. as those will generally be the hottest temperatures of the day.

3. Enlist the Help of Friends

Reach out to your friends several weeks in advance and ask if they’ll be able to help with your move. The more hands you have helping, the faster your move will go. Plus, getting help from friends will prevent you from needing to pay a moving company. Be sure to treat your friends to breakfast, lunch or dinner to show your appreciation.

4. Pack a Cooler

When you're moving during the summer, you're sure to work up a sweat. Be sure to drink plenty of water the day before your move, and make a point to drink at least eight cups of water on moving day. Sports drinks are a good option, too — they help replenish electrolytes lost during exertion. Staying hydrated is key to avoiding heat exhaustion.

5. Dress to Move

Wear light colored, breathable clothing that is comfortable and will allow you to move. Skip the sandals and opt for sneakers that will give you the support and stability you need, especially if you'll be hauling boxes up flights of stairs.

6. Apply Sunscreen

Protect yourself from harmful UV rays by using a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF. Be sure to cover your face, ears, neck, arms, hands, legs and any other areas that will be exposed to sunlight. Make a point to reapply sunscreen every 80 minutes.

7. Take a Dunk in the Pool

To celebrate the end of moving day and becoming a New Orleans resident, cool off by taking a dip in the pool. Our Springs at River Chase apartments in Covington and Springs at Fremaux Town Center in Slidell both feature resort-style swimming pools to help residents unwind and relax after a long day.

Do you have any other summer moving tips that aren't outlined above? If so, please leave your suggestions below.