Moving in Texas isn’t just about trucks and boxes — it’s also about beating the heat. Summer temperatures often climb into triple digits, and if you’re not prepared, your move can quickly become a sweaty, stressful mess. Whether you’re moving across town or relocating from another state, it’s easy to overlook some essentials when the heat is bearing down on you.
Here are 10 common things people forget when moving during a Texas summer — and how you can avoid the same mistakes.
Hydration: Not Just Water — Electrolytes Matter
One of the most dangerous things you can forget during a move is hydration, and not just with water. The Texas sun can be relentless, especially in central and south Texas. Most people underestimate how much they’ll sweat and forget to replenish lost electrolytes.
Tip: Stock your cooler with water, sports drinks, or electrolyte tablets. Offer drinks to your movers too — whether you’ve hired a Boerne TX moving company or friends helping you out, they’ll appreciate it.
Moving Boxes Don’t Handle Heat Well
Did you know heat weakens cardboard? If you’re using cheap boxes or leaving packed boxes in the sun, they can warp, break down, or fall apart.
Tip: Avoid stacking boxes in direct sunlight. Prioritize quality packing materials and load items into the truck as quickly as possible. If using a storage unit, consider one with climate control.
Electronics and Heat: A Risky Combo
It’s surprisingly common for people to leave laptops, tablets, gaming consoles, or flat-screen TVs inside hot vehicles for hours while moving — and then find them damaged or non-functional.
Tip: Keep electronics in a separate, air-conditioned vehicle or move them last. If using professional movers like those at Kerrville moving companies, ask how they handle fragile and heat-sensitive items.
Forgettable but Essential: Sunscreen and Hats
Moving often involves multiple trips in and out of homes, which means prolonged sun exposure. It’s easy to forget sunscreen or sun-protective clothing when you’re focused on logistics, but sunburns are a real risk.
Tip: Apply SPF 30+ every few hours and wear light, breathable long sleeves or a wide-brim hat. Keep an extra bottle in your moving-day essentials kit.
Food Items Can Go Bad Fast
Many people forget that refrigerated or frozen items can spoil in under an hour in the Texas heat. Even pantry items like chocolate, canned goods, or oils can go bad if left in a hot moving truck.
Tip: Plan to pack perishable items in coolers with ice packs or donate food before moving day. Most Boerne TX moving companies recommend skipping food altogether unless you’re moving a short distance.
Pet Safety During a Move
Your pets are just as sensitive to heat as you are — possibly more. Many forget to plan properly for moving with pets in hot weather, leading to stress, dehydration, or even heatstroke.
Tip: Keep pets in a cool, quiet room on moving day and transport them in an air-conditioned vehicle. Bring water, treats, and familiar items like toys or blankets.
Plastic Storage? Not Always Heat-Friendly
People often use plastic bins to organize, but many don’t realize that cheap plastic can warp or melt in extreme heat. This is especially true when left in the sun or inside a hot truck for hours.
Tip: If using plastic bins, avoid storing them near windows or directly in sunlight. Better yet, move them first so they’re not left in high temperatures for long.
Extra Towels, Shirts, and Hand Wipes
You’re going to sweat — a lot. Most people don’t pack enough towels, clean clothes, or hygiene items to stay comfortable. There’s nothing worse than feeling sticky and gross all day during a move.
Tip: Pack a personal bag with 2–3 extra shirts, a face towel, deodorant, and wet wipes. You’ll thank yourself later — especially when you stop for food or errands post-move.
Planning for Power & AC at Your New Place
Here’s a big one: You arrive at your new place, and the power isn’t on. That means no A/C. In Texas, that’s not just inconvenient — it’s potentially dangerous, especially for kids or elderly family members.
Tip: Set up utility transfer or activation at least 2–3 days in advance. Double-check the A/C is functional before moving day. Most reputable Kerrville moving companies will remind you of this during the planning phase.
Underestimating the Time It Takes
Everything is slower when it’s hot. You move slower, rest more often, and tire more easily. Many people underestimate how long a summer move will take, which causes delays and stress.
Tip: Start as early as possible — even at sunrise if you can. Break often, and don’t overload yourself. If hiring movers, confirm their heat safety protocols and whether they split the job into early morning and evening sessions.
Conclusion
Moving in Texas is no small task, and doing it in the heat requires a strategic approach. By planning ahead and avoiding these 10 common oversights, you can protect your health, your belongings, and your sanity.
Whether you’re hiring a trusted Boerne TX moving company, exploring options from Kerrville moving companies, or doing it all yourself, the key is preparation. Stay cool, stay safe, and welcome to your new home — Texas style!