Let’s be real: moving during the holidays sounds like a recipe for stress. But it can be a surprisingly smart decision. You can use your paid time off instead of vacation days and kick off the new year in a brand-new space. The secret to success? Solid planning. But first, you need to answer the most important question: do movers work on holidays? Getting professional help is a game-changer, but only if they’re available. We’ll cover that and share our best tips for a seamless holiday move from start to finish.
1. Create Your Holiday Moving Plan
Dedicate a month, if possible, to organize your move. Start planning all your moving-related tasks. Make a tasklist/to-do list and a schedule, and try your best to stick to it. Even if you can’t start or complete packing, make sure to finish up as many tasks as you can. Holidays are busy seasons, so make sure you’re not falling behind. Schedule time for tasks because you’ll need to pack around holiday celebrations and spending time with the family.
Working on packing and boxing only on weekends and after-office work hours will take too long. On the upside, if you’re moving during the holidays, you’re sure to get a few extra off days because of the holiday season. You won’t have to apply for leave or get into extra hassles to get a few days off and work on moving. Utilize this time in the most efficient way possible.
Pros and Cons of Moving During the Holidays
Pros of a Holiday Move
While it might sound chaotic, moving during the holiday season has some surprising upsides. With fewer people scheduling moves between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, you’ll often find more flexibility. This lower demand can make it easier to book professional movers, rental trucks, and storage units on your preferred dates. It’s a great time to secure a reliable team for your local or long-distance relocation without the peak-season rush. Plus, many people have built-in time off from work or school, which means you can dedicate a few days to packing and settling in without dipping into your vacation time. This extra availability can make the entire process feel less frantic and more manageable.
Cons of a Holiday Move
Of course, a holiday move isn’t without its challenges. The season is already a whirlwind of social events, shopping, and family commitments, and adding a move can certainly amplify the stress. Another major factor is the weather. Depending on where you live, winter conditions like snow, ice, and freezing rain can create hazardous roads and make loading and unloading a truck much more difficult and dangerous. While overall demand is lower, some moving companies may also operate with reduced staff or limited hours, which can complicate scheduling. That’s why it’s essential to partner with an experienced company that has a long history of navigating these unique challenges and ensuring your move goes smoothly, no matter the season.
2. Stock Up on Moving Supplies
Moving is not an easy task and you’ll need supplies to help pack, such as boxes, scotch tape, cleaning supplies, etc. Shopping during the holiday sales (Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and more) can save you a lot of money. You’ll be able to buy quality products at reasonable prices and advantage of holiday discounts and sales.
Cut your expenses further by saving some boxes from your holiday gifts and decorations. Utilize all the boxes you already own or collected during your holiday shopping. And, request friends and family to save the boxes they no longer need. If you’ve been shopping online and getting presents delivered, building a collection of Amazon boxes becomes easier.
3. Pack Smarter, Not Harder
Packing is the most strenuous and time-consuming part of the moving process. Don’t stress yourself out by overdoing it. Execute the packing and boxing for moving during the holidays in small easy steps. If you get too exhausted, get a muscle cramp from overdoing it, or throw your back. If that happens, you won’t be able to work at all for the next few days. You’ll need to be resourceful and efficient when packing as well. Check out these moving tips:
- Use your cooking pots to hold smaller items like jewelry, makeup, and cutleries.
- Use your soft clothes (linen, cotton) to wrap fragile things like chinaware, crystal and glass artifacts, and expensive artwork. That will cut back on the bubble wrap you’ll use.
- You don’t necessarily need to fold and pack all your clothes; leave them in the dresser drawers and cover the drawers with wrap.
- Don’t forget to label all the boxes, so it’s easier to keep track and unpack afterward.
- Take pictures of the boxes after filling them for convenience and a precise idea about what went into them.
- Deploy all the traveling suitcases and backpacks you can find. Grab a few from friends also.
Pack an Essentials Bag for Moving Day
The last thing you want to do after a long day of moving is rummage through a dozen boxes just to find your toothbrush. To avoid this, pack a “moving day suitcase” or an essentials bag for each family member. This bag should contain everything you’ll need for the first 24 hours in your new home. Think of it like packing for a short trip: include a change of clothes, pajamas, basic toiletries, necessary medications, and phone chargers. If you have kids, add a favorite toy or book. This simple step ensures your first night is comfortable and stress-free, allowing you to focus on settling in rather than searching for necessities. You can find more ideas for what to pack in a comprehensive moving checklist.
Keep Gifts and Valuables Separate
Moving during the holidays often means you have presents on hand. To prevent them from getting lost or damaged in transit, keep gifts with you instead of packing them on the moving truck. The same rule applies to other irreplaceable items like jewelry, important documents, laptops, and family heirlooms. Designate a few boxes specifically for these valuables and plan to transport them in your personal vehicle. While professional movers are trained to handle your belongings with care, keeping your most precious items separate provides an extra layer of security and peace of mind. This ensures your holiday celebrations can go on without a hitch in your new home.
Plan for Easy Meals
Your kitchen will likely be one of the first rooms you pack up and one of the last you fully unpack. Instead of adding cooking to your already long to-do list, plan for easy meals. For the few days leading up to your move and the first couple of days in your new place, rely on takeout or food delivery. This allows you to pack your pots, pans, and dishes without needing to dig them out again. You can also stock up on simple, no-cook items like sandwiches, granola bars, and fruit. Planning your meals ahead of time saves you from the stress of figuring out what to eat when you’re tired and surrounded by boxes, making the transition much smoother.
4. Schedule Your Utilities in Advance
Call your utility company as soon as you confirm your move and new address. Inform them about your moving date and cancel subscriptions, so you don’t pay the charges even after you move. Also, make sure the utilities are available and operating when you move into the new place.
Arrange for Activation Before You Arrive
Imagine arriving at your new home after a long day of travel, only to find the lights don’t work and there’s no heat or Wi-Fi. This scenario is especially frustrating during the holidays when all you want is to settle in and feel cozy. To avoid this, contact your new utility providers well in advance to schedule activation for your move-in day, or even the day before, to be safe. Remember that many professional moving companies operate on holidays, but utility companies might have limited staff or shorter hours. Scheduling ahead ensures you won’t be left in the dark, literally. This simple step is crucial for a smooth transition, allowing you to focus on unpacking and starting your holiday celebrations in your new space without any added stress.
5. Prepare for a Few Moving Hiccups
Unexpected events and unexpected expenses happen all the time. Most people are not working during the holiday season, so some tasks may get delayed or take longer. Some may also charge you extra to work, given it will be a holiday. So, you need to be prepared for such inconveniences.
Navigating Holiday Traffic
It’s no secret that the roads get crowded during the holidays. From last-minute shoppers to families traveling to see relatives, you should expect more traffic, which can cause delays for your move. Whether you’re handling a local move across town or a long-distance relocation, it’s wise to build extra travel time into your schedule. Check traffic reports before you leave and have a few alternate routes planned just in case. Be sure to communicate with your moving company about your timeline; experienced movers are used to holiday traffic and can help you create a realistic schedule that accounts for potential slowdowns on the road.
Plan Around Business Closures
Remember that many businesses and public offices close their doors for the holidays. This can make it difficult to complete essential moving tasks, like transferring utilities, visiting the bank, or forwarding your mail. Before your moving day, check the holiday hours for any essential services you’ll need. Try to handle all the necessary paperwork and phone calls at least a week in advance to avoid getting stuck. This is also a good time to confirm costs, as some services may have holiday surcharges. A detailed moving checklist can be a lifesaver here, helping you track these administrative tasks so nothing falls through the cracks during the holiday rush.
6. Plan for Weather and Less Daylight
Checking weather forecasts daily to adjust your packing plans and other plans is a smart move. Also, take daylight saving time into account. Make sure to waterproof your belongings. The last thing you need is the sofas, chairs, and mattresses getting soaking wet in a downpour.
7. Do Movers Work on Holidays?
You don’t need to take the stress of packing and moving alone. A reliable and affordable moving company is absolutely essential. Research and make a list of available and trustworthy services. Compare their pricing and request free quotes from a few companies before finalizing the best one. Make sure to mark out a budget, and see which moving service best fits your budget and needs. Also, remember to call and book your move well ahead of time. During the holidays, many movers are either not working or are understaffed. Their charges can also vary significantly. So, it is best to book them beforehand.
Why You Should Book Holiday Movers in Advance
The holiday season is a peak time for travel, shopping, and, surprisingly, moving. To avoid the stress of scrambling for help at the last minute, it’s wise to book your moving company far in advance. Experts often suggest securing your movers at least six weeks ahead of your desired date. This gives you the best chance of locking in your preferred day and time, especially if you’re aiming for a popular weekend or the days immediately surrounding a major holiday. Booking early not only guarantees you a spot on the schedule but can also protect you from the surge pricing that often accompanies high-demand periods. Planning ahead is the first step toward a smooth and organized relocation.
Understanding Mover Availability on Different Holidays
A common question is whether moving companies operate on major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Day. The answer varies. While many professional movers do offer services on these days, their crews are often limited, and schedules fill up incredibly fast. Some companies may have “black-out dates” where they don’t accept new jobs at all. It’s crucial to contact potential movers directly to confirm their holiday availability and policies. Additionally, remember to check with your building management or HOA, as many have restrictions on moving during holidays to minimize disruption for other residents. An experienced company can help you plan for these logistical details.
8. Arrange Care for Kids and Pets
Having toddlers and pets around can slow down your moving preparations. If you have older kids, have them help you with packing their soft toys. This will also help them learn to take responsibility. However, it’s best not to have small kids and pets around on the day of the move. Have your friends or family take care of them so they can stay safe and protected from the chaos of the move.
9. Lighten Your Load: Declutter and Donate
Decluttering is a big part of your packing preparation. Decluttering can help reduce the number of things you need to pack, as you can get rid of things you no longer need or use. You can put these items to good use by donating to those in need. You can surely brighten up someone’s day by donating during the joyous occasion of Christmas.
10. Make Time for Holiday Festivities
You don’t need to put all your energy into packing and moving. Make sure to take in the festivities and build memories of a final holiday in the old home before you move. Remember to save the Christmas decorations for the last, so you can decorate whether you’re at your old home or new home. Don’t skip the holiday even if your home is in complete disarray. Make plans for celebrating Christmas away from home at a friend’s or family member’s place. Avoid the stress of organizing dinners, decorations, and having friends over amidst the packing. Your friends will love to have you over.
Use Holiday Cards as Moving Announcements
The holiday season is already a time for connecting with friends and family, which makes it the perfect opportunity to share your big news. Instead of sending separate moving announcements, you can combine them with your holiday cards. This is a brilliant way to save on postage and stationery, especially since moving during the holidays can sometimes stretch the budget. Simply add a small note like, “Wishing you joy from our new home!” and include your new address. It’s an efficient and festive way to ensure everyone you care about knows where to send their good wishes in the new year. Just be sure to also officially update your address with the postal service to catch any mail that goes to the old place.
11. How to Budget for a Holiday Move
Holiday seasons come with a significant expense. Buying gifts for your loved ones, Christmas decorations, new clothes for your family- there are a lot of expenses to deal with. Affording a move during this time can add pressure. Moreover, you may need to spend a little extra while moving to get things up to speed, as everything is a bit slow during this time. However, you can solve this problem by saving a little extra from a few months prior.
Factors That Influence Holiday Moving Costs
Moving during the holidays often comes with a higher price tag, and it’s helpful to understand why. The primary driver is simple supply and demand. Many moving companies give their crews well-deserved time off, which means fewer movers are available. If a company does operate on a major holiday, they typically pay their employees extra, a cost that is often reflected in your final bill. Some movers even have “black-out dates” where they don’t accept new jobs at all. Planning ahead is your best strategy to manage these costs and secure a spot with a trusted team for your long-distance move.
Day of the Week and Season
Beyond the specific holiday, the time of year and day of the week play a big role in your moving costs. For example, the week following Labor Day is an incredibly busy period for movers because it aligns with the end of summer and the start of the school year. During these peak times, moving companies are so in-demand that they have little reason to offer discounts. Booking your move on a weekday in the middle of the month can sometimes be more affordable than a weekend or the very beginning or end of the month. Always ask about pricing variations when you request a quote to find the most budget-friendly option.
Tipping Your Holiday Movers
When your moving crew gives up their holiday to help you relocate, a tip is a wonderful way to show your gratitude. While never required, it’s a gesture that is always appreciated. A good rule of thumb is to tip between 15% and 20% of your total moving cost, distributed among the crew members, for a job well done. You can also show your appreciation in other ways. Offering bottled water, snacks, or a warm cup of coffee can go a long way in making the crew feel valued during a long day of hard work. These small acts of kindness can make a big difference, especially during the festive season.
Let Us Make Your Holiday Move Easier
Moving during the holidays can be highly stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Give yourself the holiday gift you deserve by hiring Starving Students to help with your move. Whether it’s a local move, a long-distance move, or a packing need, we can ease the burden. With over 45 years of experience, we guarantee reliability, trust, and best value. for money.
Call (888) 931-6683 today to get a free quote or book!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it always more expensive to move during the holidays? Not necessarily, but you do need to be strategic. Costs can be higher on major holidays like Christmas or New Year’s Day because moving companies often pay their crews extra. However, the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas can sometimes see a dip in demand, which might offer more flexibility in pricing. Your best bet is to book on a weekday and schedule your move well in advance to lock in a good rate before any last-minute price surges.
How far in advance should I really book movers for a holiday move? Planning ahead is your best friend here. I recommend contacting and booking your moving company at least six to eight weeks before your target date. Schedules for the holidays fill up incredibly fast, as crews may be limited. Booking early not only guarantees you a spot but also gives you peace of mind so you can focus on other preparations without scrambling to find a reliable team at the last minute.
What’s the best way to handle holiday gifts and decorations during the move? Treat your gifts and irreplaceable decorations like you would any other valuable. It’s best to transport them in your own vehicle rather than on the moving truck. This prevents them from getting lost or damaged. As for other decorations, consider packing them in a clearly labeled box that you can open first. This allows you to add a little festive cheer to your new space right away, even if you’re still surrounded by other boxes.
How can I avoid feeling completely overwhelmed by mixing moving with holiday stress? The key is to give yourself grace and focus on planning. Acknowledge that your holidays will look a little different this year and that’s okay. Schedule specific, non-negotiable time for festive activities, even if it’s just watching a holiday movie with takeout. Delegate as much as you can, whether that’s hiring professional packers or asking friends to help. A detailed plan helps you tackle one task at a time instead of staring at a mountain of things to do.
What should I do if bad winter weather is forecasted for my moving day? The first step is to stay in close contact with your moving company. Professional movers are accustomed to working in various weather conditions and will have safety protocols in place for things like ice and snow. They can tell you if a delay is necessary for the safety of the crew and your belongings. You can prepare by ensuring walkways and driveways at both your old and new homes are clear and salted to prevent slips.
Key Takeaways
- Book Movers and Utilities Well in Advance: Holiday schedules for moving companies and utility providers fill up fast. Secure your moving date and arrange for service transfers at least a month ahead to avoid last-minute stress and potential rate hikes.
- Pack Strategically for a Smooth Arrival: Prepare an essentials bag with necessities for your first 24 hours, transport valuables and gifts in your own vehicle, and plan for simple takeout meals to make settling in much easier.
- Build a Flexible Plan for Holiday Hiccups: Expect potential delays from increased traffic, winter weather, and business closures. Build extra time into your schedule and remember to step away from the boxes to enjoy the festive season.
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