Relocating before the end of the year can be a smart decision for individuals, families, and professionals alike.
Whether you’re moving within Spain or heading overseas, the final quarter of the year often provides unique moving advantages: cheaper travel, smoother transitions for families, and better availability of relocation services compared to the January rush.
With careful planning and expert guidance, you can settle into your new home and start the new year stress-free.
TL;DR: Key Takeaways
- Lower costs: Flights and rent can be cheaper in November and December.
- School transitions: Many international schools start fresh in January, ideal for expat families.
- Faster processing: Avoid January backlogs in visas, customs, and shipping.
- Expert help: Crown Relocations supports both international and local moves.
Why relocate before the year ends?
The year’s final quarter is often overlooked as a relocation window, despite offering clear advantages worldwide; families can align moves with school calendars, professionals prepare for January job starts, and businesses use remaining budget allowances before they reset.
In Spain, many landlords and moving companies offer greater flexibility before the Christmas and Three Kings holidays. By moving in November or early December, you can avoid the January rush and settle in before the new year.
Internationally, cultural and economic cycles create strong reasons to move before December ends. For example:
- In Europe, many rental markets are quieter in December.
- In North America, housing demand spikes in January, so moving earlier gives you more choice.
- In Asia, relocating before the Lunar New Year avoids one of the world’s busiest travel and shipping periods.
What are the benefits of moving before the year ends?
Financial advantages across regions
Moving before the new year can offer several financial benefits, including:
- Flights: November and early December airfares are typically lower.
- Housing: Landlords may be more flexible in December to avoid vacancies over the holiday period.
Family-friendly timing
If moving with other family members, it’s key to take their needs into account. Relocating at the end of the year enables a smooth transition for all:
- International schools frequently begin new terms in January, making the transition smoother for children.
Reduced competition for services
- Movers, shippers, and housing agents often face peak demand in January. Booking in October – November provides a wider choice and, often, lower costs.
- Particularly for moves to Asia, avoiding the Lunar New Year rush ensures faster customs and shipping services.
What should I prepare before relocating?
Key documents and legal requirements
- Passports and visas: Ensure you have valid passports and permits, and be sure that you have the correct visa.
- EU citizens moving within the Schengen area usually do not need visas, but non-EU citizens must ensure residency permits are valid before year-end.
- Some locations (such as China, Singapore, and India) will require proof of employment, medical checks, and entry visas.
- Housing contracts: Finalise agreements early to avoid holiday closures in December.
- Health insurance: Mandatory in some countries such as Germany, Switzerland, and The United States, so ensure that you are fully covered.
- Tax notifications: Inform local authorities of residency changes before December 31 to avoid double taxation. If moving within Spain, you may need to update your padrón municipal (local registration) and notify your bank or tax office (Agencia Tributaria) when changing address.
Practical relocation checklist
- Book movers early: 6–8 weeks in advance for international relocations, or 3-4 weeks in advance if moving locally.
- Declutter: Reduce storage and shipping volumes to cut costs.
- Check customs rules: Some items are prohibited in various destinations. Make sure you check import guidelines.
- Plan pet relocation: Many countries require animals to have been microchipped, vaccinated, and to undergo quarantine checks.
- Plan for weather and holidays: Winter conditions and festive shutdowns can cause delays.
Moving within Spain or across Europe?
💡 Spain’s mild winter climate and shorter travel distances make year-end relocations especially practical. Whether you’re moving from Madrid to Barcelona, or from Spain to another EU country, roads are quieter in late November and professional movers are easier to book before the festive season.
How Crown Relocations can support your move
Crown Relocations operates worldwide, with local experts across the globe.
Our services include:
- Secure packing and shipping
- Visa and immigration support
- Home and school searches
- Flexible storage solutions
- Cultural and language support
Reduce stress, save time, and avoid costly mistakes with the support of our experts.
Make your move before the year ends stress-free
Relocating before the year ends can save you money, reduce stress, and create a smoother transition for both individuals and families. Whether you are moving within your city, across Europe, or as far as Asia or the Americas, the final months of the year offer unique opportunities to settle before January brings fresh challenges.
By planning early, staying aware of local holidays, and preparing documents in advance, you can avoid common pitfalls that cause delays or added costs.
With Crown Relocations by your side, you will have expert support at every step – from packing and customs clearance to home and school searches.
Ready to start your next chapter? Contact us today for a free consultation before the year-end!
FAQs: Relocating before the year ends
Is it cheaper to move before the end of the year?
Often, yes. Airfares, rental agreements, and moving services are often more affordable in November and December.
Will December holidays affect my move?
It’s highly likely. Holidays such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Three Kings Day can slow processing. Plan ahead.
What is the best time to book movers for a year-end move?
Book 6-8 weeks in advance for international moves, and 3-4 weeks in advance for local moves.
Is year-end a good time for families to move?
Yes. Many international schools start new terms in January, which can make the transition smoother.
Is it worth moving locally before the end of the year?
Yes. If you’re moving within your city or region, December can be an ideal time. Movers often have more flexibility before the holidays, and you’ll start the new year already settled into your new home.
