Moving Over the Holidays

10 holiday moving tips

Whether moving during Thanksgiving, Christmas or another celebratory date on the calendar, these tips can help keep the peace. 

1. Stay organized

Keep track of essential tasks with a moving checklist while preparing to transition to a new home.

2. Budget for higher costs

From personal accommodations to fuel prices, traveling during holidays can be more expensive than at other times of the year. Anticipate higher costs when saving for a move. 

With U-Pack, getting a quote and reserving a move is free! 

3. Be flexible with dates

Depending on the time of year, you may need to choose a date right before or just after a holiday to find an available mover, so it helps to stay flexible if possible.  

It’s typically better to move before the special day except for Christmas (since most travel happens the week before). 

4. Book early

Securing a mover as soon as possible is always recommended, but it’s especially important around the holidays. Booking early is the best way to get the needed equipment on the preferred date. 

Keep in mind that some companies perform equipment maintenance during the off-peak winter season, so there may be fewer options. 

5. Reserve travel accommodations in advance

Holidays are busy travel times, so if you need hotels, airfare or other accommodations during the move, don’t wait until the last minute. Make reservations as early as possible to secure travel on the date you want and a place to stay overnight if needed.

6. Anticipate travel delays

Airports can be hectic during some seasons, so allow extra time to navigate and get through security. If you’re driving, watch for more highway traffic and be prepared for delays, especially around Thanksgiving and Christmas. 

7. Keep an eye on the weather 

Depending on the time of year and where you’re traveling, you might need extra time to drive on snow or ice. Check the forecast before hitting the road to make sure you're prepared. 

8. Communicate with family and friends

Keep an open line of communication with family and friends. From altered get-together schedules to your moving itinerary, they’ll want to stay informed. And don't forget to make plans to say goodbye to your loved ones.

9. Stay positive

Any move can be less stressful if you keep a positive attitude. Focus on the excitement of the season and anticipate the good times in the new home as you deal with any minor inconveniences during the process. Remember that the relocation process is temporary, and you’ll soon be settled in with a new routine.

10. Celebrate (even if it looks different)

Don’t give up celebrations just because of a move. Start some new traditions or scale back the old ones.  

• It’s okay to put up less decor than usual when relocating after the holiday! Just plan to pack decorations last. 
• If you plan to decorate the new home for the season, keep decorations in separate boxes you can unpack quickly. 
• Choose a celebration date earlier or later to avoid interfering with travel plans. 
   

Plan your holiday move today with U-Pack

U-Pack serves all 50 states, Canada and Puerto Rico, and we’re ready to help with your move. Get a free, no-obligation quote online or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant.  

Have questions about relocating any time of the year? Let us know in the comments!