Did You Know? 10 Surprising Facts About the Moving Industry
Moving is one of those life events almost everyone experiences — but most of us don’t think much about the industry behind it. From surprising statistics to little-known moving truths, here are 10 facts that might make you see your next move in a whole new light.
1. Summer Is Far and Away the Busiest Moving Season
Roughly 70% of all residential moves in the United States happen between May and September. In Minnesota, that window is even tighter — most people strongly prefer to move before the snow flies, making June, July, and August absolute peak season. Book early!
2. The Average American Moves 11.7 Times in Their Lifetime
That’s right — most Americans will move nearly a dozen times before they’re done. Whether it’s college, a new job, growing family, or retirement downsizing, moving is practically a life skill worth getting good at.
3. Mondays Are the Cheapest Day to Move
If your schedule allows flexibility, moving mid-week or on a Monday can save you real money. Weekends — especially the last weekend of the month — command the highest demand (and sometimes the highest prices).
4. The Moving Industry Generates Over $18 Billion Annually
Moving is big business in the U.S., with tens of thousands of professional moving companies serving millions of customers each year. When you hire a local company like 1st Class Moving, you’re keeping that money in the Minnesota economy.
5. The Average Move Takes 2–5 Days of Total Preparation
It’s not just the moving day that takes time — packing, organizing, and making arrangements typically adds up to 2–5 days of active work before the truck even shows up. Start earlier than you think you need to.
6. Minnesota Is One of the Top States for In-State Moves
Minnesotans tend to move within the state at high rates — the Twin Cities metro, with its 186+ suburbs and neighborhoods, gives people plenty of options to move around without ever leaving the area.
7. Boxes Are Recycled on Average 4+ Times
Good quality moving boxes can be reused multiple times. Consider buying used boxes from local Facebook Marketplace groups, or ask your moving company if they have reusable crates — it’s better for the environment and your wallet.
8. The Most Common Moving Day Injury Is a Back Strain
DIY movers account for a large percentage of moving-day injuries, mostly from improper lifting techniques. Professional movers are trained in safe lifting and use the right equipment to prevent injuries — to themselves and your belongings.
9. The Most Common Item Left Behind? Plants.
In the chaos of moving day, houseplants are frequently forgotten or left behind. Make a specific note on your checklist for plants — and remember that some Minnesota winters make transporting tropical plants tricky if your move spans cooler months.
10. Professional Movers Move Significantly Faster Than DIY
Studies consistently show that professional moving crews can pack, load, and unload in roughly half the time it takes most homeowners to do the same work. When time is money (and it always is during a move), professionals pay for themselves.
Ready to make your next move a smart one? 1st Class Moving is your trusted local moving company serving Minneapolis and all metro suburbs. Get in touch today for a free, no-obligation estimate — and let us handle the heavy work!
