A Guide to Stress-Free Moving During the Holidays

December 9, 2023

Relocating during the festive season can serve as a wonderful opportunity to kick-start novel holiday customs with your loved ones in a different neighborhood. Moving during the holidays allows you to embrace the cherished traditions you've always held dear and simultaneously embark on exciting adventures that you and your family can cherish as you discover fresh aspects of your new location. At Stewart Moving & Storage, we recognize how vital it is for you to transition into your new residence and become comfortably established promptly, ensuring you can fully savor the festive season. Whether you are moving to a new state alone or just moving your family across town, Stewart Moving & Storage is here to help moving during your vacation as easy as possible.

Tips for Moving During the Holidays

1. Plan and Book Early

During the holidays, moving companies are often in high demand. To ensure you get the services you need when you need them, start planning your move well in advance. Book your movers as early as possible to guarantee availability and avoid peak holiday rates. Moving during Christmas can be particularly difficult since there are limited days to complete your move. Early birds not only get better rates but also have a wider selection of dates and times to choose from, ensuring your move aligns perfectly with your holiday plans.

2. Declutter Before Decorating
Deck the Halls with Less: Before you start decking your home with boughs of holly, take some time to declutter. Tackle one room at a time, donating items you no longer need. This dual-action tip helps you trim your moving load while spreading holiday cheer through your charitable contributions. Plus, fewer items to pack and move mean potential savings on moving costs and less unpacking stress in your new home.

3. Keep the Holiday Spirit Alive
Home is Where the Hearth is: Transitioning to a new home during the holidays doesn't mean skimping on the festive spirit. Prioritize your holiday decorations when packing, so you can easily set them up upon arrival at your new abode. This quick setup can turn any space into a cozy holiday retreat, ensuring the continuation of traditions and joyful celebrations, even if surrounded by unpacked boxes.

4. Weather-Proof Your Move
Let it Snow, but Stay Prepared: Keep an eye on the weather forecast as your moving day approaches. Bad weather can throw a wrench in your plans, so it’s crucial to weatherproof your move. This includes keeping all walkways free and clear of snow and ice before the movers arrive.

Does moving during the holiday season cost more?

Family carrying boxes into an empty house

Moving during the holidays can come with unique challenges and additional costs. While the festive season may seem like a good time for a fresh start, potential movers need to consider the possible financial implications of their decision. Here are some reasons why moving on a holiday might be more expensive:

Peak Season Rates: The holiday season is often a busy time for moving companies due to increased demand. Many people choose to move when they have time off work or when children are on school holidays. As a result, moving companies may charge peak season rates due to the high demand, similar to how airlines and hotels increase their prices during popular travel periods.
Holiday Premiums: Some moving companies charge additional fees for working on holidays. This is because employees are often entitled to higher wages for working on holidays, and the moving company may pass these extra labor costs on to the customer. This holiday premium can be a significant addition to the overall moving expenses.
Limited Availability: With fewer crews working during the holidays, the availability of moving services can be scarce. Moving companies might prioritize their long-standing customers or those willing to pay higher rates, making it more costly for new or cost-conscious movers to secure a booking.
Expedited Service Fees: If you need to move quickly during the holidays due to an unexpected circumstance like a job relocation, moving companies might charge expedited service fees to accommodate your schedule. These rush fees can add up, especially when resources are already stretched thin during the festive season.
Accessorial Charges: Additional services, including packing, unpacking, and temporary storage, may be more expensive during holidays. The increased cost reflects not only the higher demand but also the inconvenience of providing these services outside regular working hours.

Planning ahead, obtaining multiple quotes, and choosing your moving date carefully can help manage these expenses. Remember, while it may be tempting to secure the first available moving service during the holiday rush, this choice could lead to paying a premium that could be avoided with more strategic timing.

Can you change holiday dates once booked?

If you're considering a move during the holiday season, you're likely wondering about the flexibility of your holiday plans should any unforeseen circumstances arise. It is essential to remember that while some holiday bookings can be changed, fees and restrictions often apply. To avoid any potential setbacks, it's crucial to plan your moving date carefully. If you're hiring professional movers during the holiday rush, it's advisable to book their services well in advance and to confirm their holiday schedules. By securing a moving company that specializes in year-round relocations, you can alleviate the stress that comes with shifting homes during such a busy time. Keep an eye on possible cancellation policies or travel insurance that could offer more flexibility for your holiday and moving plans. As the holidays approach, being diligent with your moving preparations can lead to a seamless transition into your new home, helping you to celebrate without skipping a beat. Need to store items over the holidays? Check out our storage preparation tips!

Contact Stewart for Your Holiday Move

If you are looking for help to get moving during the holidays, Stewart Moving & Storage is ready to be your partner. We provide a variety of moving services, including commercial movers, short distance movers, long distance movers, and interstate movers. Whether you're upgrading your office space or relocating your home, our expert team can provide essential tips and strategies for a seamless transition. Don't let the hassle of moving dampen the festive spirit—let Stewart Moving & Storage make your holiday move a success with our reliable and adaptable services. Visit our website or contact us today to learn how our flexibility can match your holiday plans, and ensure this season is merry, bright, and worry-free.