How to Move in July and Not Melt

I had a buddy who once tried to outsmart the unforgiving Kansas summer heat by setting up a tent in his apartment and putting a mini fridge inside the tent. He would open the mini fridge during the day to try to cool the tent with plans to sleep in a nice, cool place at night. It takes less to cool a small space. How could that logic ever fail? As anyone with a sliver of common sense would guess, his genius plan backfired. Instead of an igloo, he got a sauna. The open fridge overheated during the day and it was hotter than before he put the fridge in. Figuring out a way to beat the heat during a July move is similar. No matter what you think of, you’re probably going to end up sweating your butt off anyway. Nonetheless, self storage facilities still provide options that at least ease the summer suffering. Here are a few tips for moving in the heat:

1. Some facilities provide units that are indoors. If you do no need a drive-up unit with a large garage door, this is your best bet during the summer months. These units are usually air-conditioned. Find a facility with climate-controlled units and call the manager to see if the units are indoors and how accessible they are – i.e. you want to be able to pull right up to the door so you spend the least amount of time outside.
2. Move at night or early in the morning. Find a facility that opens early and closes late, or a facility that is accessible 24 hours a day.
3. Ask the manager for a dolly. Most facilities have some sort of dolly that’s available for renters to use. The faster you execute a move, the less you suffer.
4. Begin by unloading large items that will draw heat and could be sensitive to touch. This would include large household appliances, all metal, leather furniture or a grill.
5. Have a plan and bring help. The more organized you are, the faster you can execute your move. Just make sure your friendship is far enough along that you’re ready to ask for help with a move. You don’t want to make the same mistake as Keith Hernandez.
6. Leave the mini fridge closed.