Moving during the holidays might sound like a recipe for stress—boxes everywhere, decorations lost in a sea of bubble wrap, and your turkey dinner somewhere in a cooler. But believe it or not, with the right planning, moving during the holiday season can actually be a great idea. Less competition, better rates, and a chance to start the new year in a new home? Count us in.
Here’s how to keep the holidays merry and your move manageable.
Why Move During the Holidays?
Most people avoid moving during the festive season, which means less demand and lower prices. Moving companies are more available, and rental trucks aren’t booked solid three months out.
Also, if you’ve just closed on a new home or signed a lease before year-end, moving now might align perfectly with your schedule, employment changes, or tax planning.
Step 1: Book Early—Yes, Even in the Off-Season
Although the holidays are typically slower for movers, don’t assume you can call last minute and get your dream date. Many companies reduce staff around Christmas and New Year’s, so book early to lock in your preferred time—especially if you’re moving in late December.
Also, clarify holiday rates and hours. Some companies charge extra for holiday or weekend work.
Step 2: Create a Hybrid Holiday-Moving Calendar
In other words: plan to do less of both. You can’t wrap presents, bake cookies, and pack up your garage on the same day (not unless you’ve discovered time travel).
Make a calendar that includes:
• Packing days (prioritize non-essentials first)
• Donation drop-offs
• Holiday commitments (school concerts, office parties)
• Moving day(s)
• Setup time in your new place
Being realistic helps you reduce the pressure and allows room to actually enjoy the season.
Step 3: Pack Like Santa—With a List (and Labels)
The holidays already involve an avalanche of stuff—add moving boxes, and chaos can easily take over.
Tips for staying sane:
• Clearly label every box, especially anything related to holiday decorations or gifts.
• Create a “Holiday Essentials” box with:
• Stockings
• Wrapping paper
• One set of lights
• A few festive items for the new home
• If you have kids, keep one small tree or decoration out to help keep spirits up.
That way, even if your living room is full of boxes, you’ll still have a dash of holiday magic.
Step 4: Consider Downsizing Before Gifting
Moving is the perfect time to declutter. Before you haul everything into a new space, do a quick audit of:
• Decorations you no longer use
• Kitchenware you haven’t touched since the last family reunion
• Bulky coats, blankets, or electronics
Donate usable items to local charities or shelters—especially during the holidays when the need is greater. Many donation centers even offer pickup services this time of year.
Step 5: Prep for Winter Moves
If you’re in a snowy or cold region, your move might come with a few weather-related curveballs.
Prep tips:
• Cover floors in both homes to avoid tracking in snow or mud
• Clear driveways and walkways before movers arrive
• Keep towels handy to wipe down wet boxes
• Pack fragile items with extra padding in case of cold damage
Also, double-check your utilities are up and running in the new place before you arrive—nothing says “Grinch” like moving into a freezing house.
Step 6: Keep Holiday Traditions (Even if They’re Small)
Moving can be hard emotionally, especially around the holidays. If you have kids, elderly relatives, or just a strong attachment to the season, keeping even one or two simple traditions alive can make all the difference.
Consider:
• Baking cookies with limited kitchen gear
• Streaming a holiday movie while unpacking
• Playing festive music during the move
• Setting up a makeshift holiday dinner picnic-style in the new living room
Even if everything’s not perfect, the effort goes a long way toward feeling “home.”
Step 7: Celebrate After the Move
You did it! Now it’s time to celebrate both your move and the season—even if it’s with takeout and paper plates.
Once the boxes are in, consider:
• Hosting a “holiday housewarming” (virtually or in person)
• Hanging a wreath on the front door as your first decoration
• Toasting to the new chapter with your loved ones
There’s no better way to settle into your new place than by making new holiday memories right away.
Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Move and Still Enjoy the Holidays
It’s true—moving during the holiday season comes with challenges. But it also offers unique opportunities: lower costs, easier booking, and a memorable start to the next chapter of your life.
With smart planning, a few twinkle lights, and maybe a mug of cocoa between boxes, you can pull it off—and maybe even enjoy the process.
So if your moving date is fast approaching and the holidays are in full swing, don’t stress. You’ve got this. Just remember: pack the stockings last, and the wine glasses first.