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How to Plan a Stress-Free Move During the Holidays

Moving is stressful. The holidays are stressful. Combine the two, and you’ve got a recipe for pure chaos—unless you plan ahead. Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, moving during the holiday season doesn’t have to feel like pulling off an elaborate magic trick. With a little organization (and a lot of coffee), you can make it through the move and still have time to hang stockings and sip cocoa by the fire.

Here’s how to juggle the holiday hustle while keeping your move merry and bright.

packed piano moving

1. Start Planning Early – Like, Yesterday

Holiday moves require more planning than your average relocation. The earlier you start, the less stressful it will be.

• Book movers ASAP: Movers are in high demand during the holidays, so lock in your dates early. Aim for mid-week or non-holiday days if possible to avoid premium rates.
• Create a moving calendar: Block out key holiday events—Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Year’s—and work your moving timeline around them.
• Pro Tip: Movers may have limited hours during the holidays, so ask about their schedule in advance.

2. Declutter Like You’re Santa Checking His List

Before you start packing, channel your inner Santa. Make a list (and check it twice) of things you really need to take with you.

• Donate old items: ‘Tis the season of giving! Donate gently used clothes, toys, and household items to local charities.
• Sell or gift excess decorations: If your holiday decor collection could rival a department store, consider gifting extras to friends or family.
• Pro Tip: Many donation centers experience a surge during the holidays. Call ahead to see if they’re accepting items.

3. Pack with a Holiday Twist

Packing during the holidays doesn’t have to suck the festive spirit out of you.

• Label holiday decorations clearly: If you plan to decorate right away, pack your holiday items last so they’re easy to access.
• Create a “holiday essentials” box: Include wrapping paper, stockings, and a few small decorations to make your new space feel festive, even if it’s still full of boxes.
• Pro Tip: Leave out a few gifts to give your new place a holiday vibe the moment you arrive.

4. Manage Holiday Shopping and Moving Budgets

Moving is expensive. So are the holidays. Managing both can feel like a balancing act.

• Set a spending limit: Establish a clear budget for gifts and moving expenses to avoid financial strain.
• Shop early and online: Take advantage of Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals to knock out your holiday shopping before moving day.
• Pro Tip: Gift experiences instead of physical items—less to pack and more memorable for your loved ones.

5. Stay Connected to Holiday Traditions (Even if It’s Minimal)

Just because you’re moving doesn’t mean you have to skip holiday traditions altogether.

• Host a small farewell party: Say goodbye to your current home with a simple gathering. Keep it low-key with cookies and hot cocoa.
• Attend local events: Explore holiday events in your new neighborhood to help you settle in and feel festive.
• Pro Tip: If you can’t manage your usual holiday traditions, create new ones to mark the move as a special occasion.

6. Prepare for Winter Weather

If you’re moving in a snowy climate, winter weather can add an extra layer of complexity to your holiday move.

• Watch the forecast: Stay updated on weather conditions and have a backup plan in case of snowstorms.
• Protect your belongings: Use plastic bins or wrap boxes in plastic to prevent moisture damage during transit.
• Pro Tip: Keep a snow shovel, salt, and warm clothes handy—just in case.

7. Involve the Whole Family

Moving during the holidays can feel less like a chore if everyone gets involved.

• Give kids small tasks: Let them pack their toys or holiday decorations. Make it fun by playing holiday music while you work.
• Assign holiday-themed roles: One person can be in charge of packing while another handles gift wrapping or baking cookies.
• Pro Tip: Turn unpacking into a family activity.

Decorate the new home together to make it feel warm and inviting.

8. Take Time to Relax and Celebrate

It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of moving, but don’t forget to enjoy the holidays.

 • Schedule downtime: Plan for breaks to watch holiday movies, decorate cookies, or simply relax by the fire.

 • Reward yourself: Celebrate small moving milestones with holiday treats or outings.

 • Pro Tip: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, step away from the boxes and take a breather. The holidays are about joy, not stress.

9. Keep the Holiday Spirit Alive

Moving during the holidays may feel unconventional, but it can also be an opportunity to create lasting memories.

• Decorate your new space quickly: Even if you’re surrounded by boxes, adding twinkling lights and a wreath can make your new place feel like home.
• Celebrate with new neighbors: Use the holiday season as a reason to introduce yourself and spread some holiday cheer.
• Pro Tip: A plate of cookies can work wonders for making new friends!

Moving during the holidays might seem like a tall order, but with the right planning and mindset, it can be a smooth (and even enjoyable) experience. Focus on what matters most—family, traditions, and creating new memories. By staying organized and sprinkling in some holiday spirit, you’ll settle into your new home just in time to ring in the new year stress-free.

And hey, if nothing else, you’ve got a great excuse to leave the holiday lights up a little longer this year!