What are the top tips for moving during the holiday season?
Moving during the holiday season requires extra planning and flexibility. With limited availability of movers, increased travel costs, and family commitments, preparation is key. To ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation, focus on three main stages: before, during, and after your move.
Keep scrolling for your Holiday-season checklist – feel free to tick things off as you go!
TL;DR: Key Takeaways
- Plan and book early; holiday schedules can fill up fast.
- Stay organised with clear checklists and labelling.
- Keep essentials accessible for the festive period.
- Enjoy local traditions once you arrive and make your new home feel festive.
Before the Move: Plan Ahead and Stay Organised
Book Early to Secure Availability 🗓️
Moving companies, flights, and shipping services tend to be busy or operate on reduced schedules during November and December. Book your relocation services at least 6-8 weeks in advance to avoid last-minute stress and higher prices.
💡 Tip: Confirm your moving dates early and stay in touch with your relocation coordinator for any schedule changes or customs closures over the holidays.
Declutter Before You Pack ♻️
The holiday period is the perfect time to simplify your belongings. Donate, sell, or recycle items you no longer need before packing. This saves on shipping costs and makes unpacking easier.
Quick tips:
- Donate gently used clothes or toys to local charities.
- Dispose of expired food, cosmetics, and cleaning products.
- Digitise paperwork and photos to reduce clutter.
Pack Smart for the Festive Season 📦
Keep a “holiday essentials” box separate, filled with items you’ll want easy access to; decorations, small gifts, or festive outfits. This helps maintain holiday cheer even while unpacking.
💡 Bonus tip: Label boxes clearly by room and priority, especially if some shipments will arrive after the holidays.
During the Move: Stay Flexible and Stress-Free
Keep Important Documents and Essentials Handy 📂
Travel documents, passports, visas, and moving contracts should be stored together in a waterproof folder and kept with you during travel.
Essentials bag idea:
- ID and travel papers
- Chargers and adaptors
- Medications
- Snacks and small gifts for children (or for yourself…)
Stay Connected and Manage Expectations 📞
Holiday traffic and winter weather can cause unexpected delays. Stay in close contact with your moving team and track your shipment where possible.
💡 Tip: Use digital calendars or relocation apps to manage key dates and reminders, such as utility connections or customs paperwork.
Keep the Holiday Spirit Alive 🌟
If you’re relocating with family, small traditions can make a big difference. Bring along portable decorations, play holiday music, or plan a simple festive meal wherever you are.
After the Move: Settle in and Celebrate
Unpack Strategically 🎯
Focus on essentials first – kitchen items, bedding, and toiletries – then move to holiday decorations and non-essentials. This allows you to enjoy your new space without feeling overwhelmed.
Top priority rooms to unpack:
- Bedrooms 🛌🏻
- Kitchen 🍳
- Bathrooms 🛀🏻
Explore Local Holiday Traditions 🌍
If you’ve moved abroad, embrace local customs to help your family feel connected to your new home. Attend community events or try regional festive foods.
💡 Example: In Germany, explore Christmas markets; in the UK, enjoy Boxing Day activities; in the USA, take part in local New Year celebrations.
Start the New Year Organised 📝
Once you’re settled, take time to update your address details, register for local services, and review your relocation checklist. This helps you start the new year smoothly and stress-free.
Why Choose Crown Relocations?
With decades of experience helping families move locally and internationally, Crown Relocations ensures your holiday move runs smoothly. From expert packing and customs support to settling-in assistance, our team is here to make your relocation stress-free, even during the busiest time of year.
Make Your Holiday Move Merry and Stress-Free
Moving during the holiday season may sound daunting, but with the right preparation and expert support, it can be a rewarding way to start a new chapter.
By planning early, staying organised, and embracing the festive spirit, you can enjoy a smooth relocation and create new traditions in your new home.
Whether you’re moving across town or across continents, Crown Relocations is here to make every step simple, safe, and stress-free.
🎁 Ready to move this holiday season? Contact Crown Relocations today to start planning your move with confidence.
FAQ: Moving During the Holiday Season
Q1: Is it more expensive to move during the holidays?
Yes. Moving costs can increase due to reduced availability and higher travel demand. Booking early and being flexible with dates can help you save money.
Q2: How can I make a holiday move easier for children?
Maintain familiar routines, pack their favourite toys, and involve them in decorating the new home to help them adjust.
Q3: What should I do if my shipment is delayed?
Stay in contact with your relocation partner and keep a small supply of essentials with you. Many providers, including Crown Relocations, offer tracking and support throughout the move.
Q4: What should I pack in an “essentials” box?
Your essentials box should include items you’ll need immediately upon arrival. This could include toiletries, a few changes of clothes, basic kitchenware, snacks, chargers, and important documents.
For families, include items like children’s bedding or comfort toys to make the first night more comfortable.
Q5: How can I keep my move eco-friendly during the holidays?
Reuse boxes, donate unwanted items, and avoid single-use packing materials. Crown Relocations can provide sustainable packing options and advice to help reduce your environmental impact.
