Planning your move to Portugal? Timing can make all the difference. The season you choose affects your shipping costs, customs processing, housing options, and even how smoothly you’ll adjust once you arrive.
Here’s everything you need to know about the best time to move to Portugal from the U.S., based on weather, shipping logistics, and real-world relocation factors.
Why Timing Matters for Your Move
When it comes to international moves, the time of year directly impacts:
- Shipping availability and cost (peak vs. off-season rates)
- Customs processing times
- Housing market and rental demand
- Weather conditions for packing, transport, and settling in
- How quickly you’ll feel comfortable in your new surroundings
Portugal’s mild climate allows for year-round relocation, but certain months offer smoother and more affordable transitions than others.
The Best Time to Move: Late Spring or Early Fall
The ideal time for most Americans to move to Portugal is from late April to early June or from mid-September to early October.
Here’s why:
- Mild weather: Comfortable temperatures make moving, unpacking, and exploring easier.
- Lower demand: You’ll avoid peak summer shipping costs and crowded ports.
- Housing opportunities: Fewer tourists mean better options and prices for rentals.
- Smoother logistics: Customs offices and moving services tend to be less congested outside of high vacation season.
If you’re planning to ship your household goods by sea, start your booking 8–12 weeks before your desired arrival to align delivery with your move-in date.
Summer Moves (June–August): Pros and Cons
Summer is the busiest season for moving and the most challenging for Portugal.
Pros:
- Longer daylight hours for travel and settling in
- Easier timing for families with children on school break
Cons:
- Extreme heat in southern regions like the Algarve and inland cities
- Higher costs due to peak shipping and moving demand
- Limited housing availability with the tourist surge
- Traffic and congestion near coastal and resort areas
If you must move in the summer, you may want to schedule your shipment and arrival for early June, before the peak travel season hits.
Fall Moves (September–November): Great Weather, Lower Stress
Autumn is one of the most popular times for expats to relocate to Portugal.
Why fall works well:
- Warm temperatures linger into October
- Less tourism means easier scheduling for shippers and movers
- Great time to settle in before winter rains
- Ideal window for enrolling children in school (Portuguese school year begins in September)
Watch out for:
- Increased rainfall by late November
- Shorter daylight hours heading into winter
Spring Moves (March–May): Fresh Start, Smooth Logistics
Spring is another great time for your international move. The weather is mild, the countryside is lush, and relocation services are fully operational after winter slowdowns.
Benefits:
- Perfect for sea shipments – fewer port delays
- Easier scheduling with moving companies before the summer rush
- Ideal time to find housing and settle in before high season
If you’re moving to northern Portugal (Porto, Braga, or Douro Valley), spring’s mild climate makes it especially comfortable for unpacking and exploring.
Winter Moves (December–February): Low Cost, Higher Risk
Winter can be the most affordable time to move, but it’s not for everyone.
Pros:
- Lower shipping and moving rates
- Fewer tourists, meaning more housing options
Cons:
- Rain and shorter days slow down logistics
- Limited outdoor time for getting settled
- Possible weather-related shipment delays
Winter may work well for coastal destinations like Lisbon or the Algarve, where winters are mild and rarely see freezing temperatures. But if you’re moving inland, expect cooler, wetter conditions.
How Shipping Seasonality Affects Your Move
Sea freight from the U.S. to Portugal typically takes 4–8 weeks, depending on the port of origin and destination.
Peak shipping seasons (summer and December holidays) can cause delays and rate increases.
Choosing to move during spring or fall means:
- Easier booking and faster container availability
- Fewer port delays
- More consistent sailing schedules
Work with an experienced international mover like Schumacher Cargo Logistics to plan the timing of your shipment for optimal arrival.
Regional Differences: North vs. South Portugal
Climate varies across Portugal, and your ideal move timing may depend on where you’re headed.
- Lisbon & Central Portugal: Best in spring or fall – summers can be hot, winters mild but rainy.
- Algarve (South Coast): Avoid midsummer heat; early spring or late fall are ideal.
- Porto & Northern Portugal: Spring and early fall are perfect before heavy winter rains set in.
Best Time to Move to Portugal FAQ
When is the cheapest time to move to Portugal?
Winter months (December–February) tend to be the most affordable due to lower demand, though weather conditions can be less favorable.
What’s the best time to ship household goods to Portugal?
Late spring or early fall are best – shipping companies are less busy, and port operations are smoother.
Can I move to Portugal in summer?
Yes, but expect potential heatwaves and busier customs processing. If summer is your only option, try to move in early June before peak vacation months.
Does weather really affect international moving?
Yes, especially for sea freight. Extreme temperatures and storms can affect port operations and schedules.
Our Advice for When to Move to Portugal
If you’re planning a move to Portugal in 2025, aim for late spring or early fall. You’ll enjoy ideal weather, smoother shipping, and fewer logistical headaches.
Whether you’re relocating your home, car, or entire household, Schumacher Cargo Logistics can handle every step from pickup in the U.S. to delivery at your new home in Portugal.
Start Planning Your Move Today
Now is a great time to start planning your spring move to Portugal.
Get a free quote and let our international moving specialists create a timeline that fits your needs.
