House movers can make the relocation process easier, but choosing the right time to move in Singapore can significantly impact your costs, efficiency, and overall experience. With Singapore’s hot and humid climate, monsoon seasons, and high demand for moving services during key rental turnover periods, planning your move strategically can help you save money, avoid delays, and ensure a smooth transition.
Knowing when to schedule your move based on demand trends, pricing fluctuations, and logistical convenience can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll break down the best times to move to Singapore, considering local factors like weather, public holidays, and peak demand periods.
Understanding Singapore’s Moving Seasons: Peak vs. Off-Peak Periods
Peak Moving Season (November–February & May–July)
The busiest times for moving in Singapore coincide with major lease turnover periods, expatriate relocations, and school holidays, making it a peak season for moving companies. The end and beginning of the year see a surge in people moving, particularly expatriates whose work contracts and rental leases typically renew around this time.
Additionally, local families planning to relocate often schedule moves during this period to align with job transfers or new school enrollments. Another peak occurs in May to July, as families take advantage of the school holiday period to transition into new homes without disrupting their children’s academic schedules. The demand for movers increases as many prefer to settle into a new place before the next school term starts.
Pros:
✔ Easier transitions for families with school-going children.
✔ Higher availability of rental properties, especially for expatriates.
✔ Clear scheduling opportunities for those aligning moves with work contracts.
Cons:
❌ Higher moving costs due to increased demand.
❌ Limited availability—movers and rental trucks book up fast.
❌ Possible delays due to monsoon rains in November to January.
Off-Peak Moving Season (March–April & August–October)
Demand for house movers in Singapore is generally lower in these months, making it easier to negotiate rates and secure availability.
Pros:
✔ Lower prices due to reduced demand.
✔ More flexibility in scheduling moving services.
✔ Less competition for movers and service elevators in condominiums and HDBs.
Cons:
❌ Hot and humid weather conditions can make physical labour exhausting.
❌ Fewer rental options are available in the property market.
Best Days of the Week to Move in Singapore
Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) vs. Weekends (Friday–Sunday)
Most Singaporeans prefer to move on weekends, especially those working full-time. However, moving on weekends means dealing with higher prices, limited availability, and busier roads. Weekday moves tend to be cheaper and more efficient.
Why Weekdays Are Better:
✔ More availability from movers, leading to better service.
✔ Lower moving rates due to reduced demand.
✔ Less congestion on expressways like PIE, CTE, and AYE.
✔ Easier access to service elevators in condos and HDBs.
When a Weekend Move Works Best:
✔ If you have work commitments and cannot take leave.
✔ If you need extra help from family or friends.
✔ If your lease ends on a weekend, requiring an immediate move.
Best Time of the Month to Move
Most leases in Singapore expire at the beginning or end of the month, making these periods the busiest for moving companies. Mid-month moves tend to be cheaper and more convenient.
Best Choice:
✔ Move between the 6th and 20th of the month to avoid peak demand.
✔ Avoid the last five days of the month, when most lease agreements end.
✔ If you must move at the end of the month, book your movers at least four weeks in advance to secure a spot.
Best Time of Day to Move in Singapore
Given Singapore’s hot and humid climate, moving at the right time of day can make a huge difference in comfort and efficiency.
Morning vs. Afternoon vs. Evening Moves
Morning Moves (7 AM–10 AM) – Best Option
✔ Cooler temperatures make moving more comfortable.
✔ Movers are fresh and work more efficiently.
✔ More time to unpack and settle in before nightfall.
✔ Avoids peak-hour traffic congestion.
Afternoon Moves (11 AM–3 PM) – Midday Rush
✔ Works if morning slots are unavailable.
✔ Can be risky as midday heat makes moving more tiring.
✔ Higher temperatures increase physical strain for movers.
Evening Moves (4 PM and Later) – Least Ideal
✔ Might work for short-distance moves.
✔ Limited daylight makes moving harder.
✔ More congestion on the roads during peak hours.
✔ Risk of fatigued movers leading to slower service and potential damages.
Avoiding Moves on Public Holidays in Singapore
Moving on a public holiday may seem convenient, but it often comes with higher prices and logistical challenges. Many movers charge premium rates for services on public holidays, and some building managements restrict moving on these days. Check out the hidden charges of some moving companies. There are service providers that charge extra if they have to work during the holidays.
Holidays to Avoid for Moving in Singapore:
- Chinese New Year (January–February) – Many moving services close or increase their rates significantly.
- Hari Raya Puasa & Hari Raya Haji – High demand from homeowners preparing for celebrations.
- Deepavali – The festive season means increased household moves and congestion.
- Christmas & New Year’s Eve – High moving rates and busy schedules.
- Labour Day & National Day – Public holidays mean movers may have limited availability or charge extra.
If you must move on a public holiday, book in advance and confirm special holiday rates with your moving company.
Conclusion
Choosing the best time to move depends on your budget, schedule, and flexibility. If you want lower costs and greater availability, aim for off-peak seasons, mid-month dates, and weekday mornings. However, if you have strict timelines due to work, school, or lease agreements, you may have to move during busier periods—just be prepared to book early and budget for potential price increases.
Additionally, avoiding last-minute moving day mistakes can help streamline the process and prevent unnecessary delays. Understanding hidden moving costs can also help you plan your budget effectively. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure a smooth, stress-free move at the best possible time.
