Are you planning a move to the Canary Islands and unsure whether to do it in summer or winter? The choice of season directly affects price, availability, sea transport conditions, and even the comfort of the move itself. In this guide we analyse the pros and cons of each period specifically for moves to the Canarian archipelago.
The seasonal factor in moves to the Canary Islands
Unlike mainland moves, where climate and holidays are the only variable factors, in the Canary Islands two critical elements come into play: the peak tourist season (which puts pressure on space on ferries) and maritime weather conditions (which can delay or increase the cost of the container).
Moving in summer (June–September): the traditional option
Advantages
- Coincides with school holidays: ideal if you have school-age children; you use the summer to settle in before the new school year in September
- Longer days: loading and unloading take up less of the working day
- Less rainfall at the mainland origin (Madrid, Barcelona, Seville): no delays caused by bad weather during loading
- Calmer sea in July and August: less rolling, reduced risk of damage to artwork or fragile items
Disadvantages
- Higher prices: July and August are the high season for maritime transport. Combined containers fill up quickly and exclusive ones rise by 15–25%
- Limited availability: you need to book at least 4–6 weeks in advance, whereas 2–3 weeks suffice in winter
- Heat in the port: temperatures inside unrefrigerated containers can exceed 50°C, which is dangerous for candles, cosmetics, waxes, and plastics
- Slower operations in August: many administrative offices (customs, agencies, local councils) work reduced hours
Moving in winter (October–March): the strategic alternative
Advantages
- Lower prices: maritime low season. Discounts of up to 20% on summer rates for combined containers
- Flexible dates: weekly sailings with available space, no need to book far in advance
- Better temperature inside the container: an average of 15–25°C, ideal for delicate items
- Smooth customs and administrative processes: no congestion, DUA processing times at a minimum (24–48 h)
- Arriving in the Canary Islands in spring-like weather: mild temperatures all winter (18–23°C), perfect for unpacking without suffering in the heat
Disadvantages
- Rougher seas: October–March is the Atlantic storm season, particularly on the crossing from Cádiz to Tenerife. Possible delays of 1–3 days due to bad weather
- Rain at the port of origin: in Galicia, Asturias, or the Basque Country loading can be complicated (rare in Mediterranean ports)
- Short days: the effective moving day is shorter, which can extend the operation by one day
- If you have children: requires a school change mid-year (harder adjustment)
Indicative price comparison
For an average flat removal (20 m³) from mainland Spain to Tenerife in a combined container:
- Summer (July–August): 2,200–2,800 €
- Autumn/Spring (April–June, September–October): 1,900–2,400 €
- Winter (November–February): 1,700–2,200 €
For a 20-foot exclusive container, the differences are even more pronounced: savings of up to 800–1,200 € in winter compared to July–August.
What is really the best time?
If price is your priority
Move in November, January, or February: maximum savings and still relatively calm seas (the strongest storms usually occur in December and March).
If stability and fixed dates are your priority
May or June: excellent weather, still no peak-season prices, and before the administrative slowdown of August.
If you have school-age children
Late June or the first week of July: you catch the start of the holidays, have time to adapt to the Canarian summer, and can enrol your children in September. Yes, you pay more — but the family transition is worth it.
If you are moving for work with a fixed deadline
Your work sets the date. If you have some flexibility, avoid the last week of August (offices almost closed) and the first two weeks of January (after Epiphany, many people request moves simultaneously).
What the season does NOT change
Regardless of when you move, there are things you must always do:
- Process the AIEM exemption if you are changing residence (saves you the Canarian import tariff)
- Obtain the registration certificate from your origin address with at least 12 months' history
- Book the combined or exclusive container according to your actual volume
- Arrange bridge storage if the key handover is delayed
Our recommendation
At Horizont Atlantic we coordinate more than 600 moves to the Canary Islands a year and, based on our experience, the best value-for-money period for a family move is usually between late May and mid-June: mild weather, calm sea, prices not yet inflated, and the whole summer ahead to settle in.
If you would like personalised advice on the best time for your specific situation, request a quote and our team will guide you on the most convenient departure schedule.
