Moving during the holidays can feel like a balancing act. It takes planning, precise timing, and a little extra care to keep everything running smoothly. But with a solid strategy, relocating during the holiday season can offer unique perks, like settling in just in time to host warm gatherings and create new memories.
Whether you’re packing up a long-time family home or transitioning to a new neighborhood, here’s your essential guide to navigate a holiday move seamlessly.
1. Book Early And Lock In Your Schedule
The holiday season is a busy time for service industries - and moving companies are no exception.
- Schedule Packers and Movers Ahead: Holiday schedules fill up quickly with end-of-year relocations and holiday vacations. Book your moving dates 4 to 6 weeks in advance to ensure a smooth move.
- Confirm Holiday Operating Hours: Verify whether your moving company, utility providers, and storage facilities operate on limited hours or close completely on key holidays.
- Plan for Winter Weather: If you are moving in peak winter, add a buffer day into your moving schedule to account for potential snow or rain delays.
2. Packing Strategy
When packing your belongings, separate your holiday items so you aren’t digging through dozens of cardboard boxes to find a specific item.
- First Night Essentials: Toiletries, bed linens, pajamas, medication, phone chargers, basic tools, etc.
- Keep in a clearly labeled box or in your personal vehicle.
- Mini-Holiday Box: Seasonal candles, cozy blankets, warm lights, string garland, and/or a couple of your favorite festive keepsakes.
- Pack these separately so you can unbox them immediately and instantly feel more at home in your new space.
- General Belongings: Books, seasonal decor, clothing, kitchenware, etc.
- To make unpacking a little easier, label boxes by room and include a brief list of contents in each.
3. Keep Gifts And Keepsakes Secure
During the hustle of loading moving trucks, important packages can easily get misplaced or damaged.
- Designate a “Safe Zone”: Pick a specific spot in your home to store gifts or high-value items and keep them in your personal car during transport.
- Label Discretely: Avoid writing “Expensive Electronics” or “Holiday Gifts” on the outside of boxes. Use simple codenames or room designations instead.
- Track Online Purchases: If you’re shopping online while moving, update your shipping addresses carefully so packages don’t arrive at your old home after you’ve left.
4. Prep Both Homes For Moving Day
Making sure both your old and new residences are ready for moving day will save time and can help prevent costly accidents.
- Clear Pathways: Ensure driveways, walkways, and porches are free of wet leaves, ice, and holiday yard decorations that could present trip hazards.
- Transfer Utilities in Advance: Make sure heating, water, and electricity are turned on at your new home at least two days before you arrive. Arriving at a freezing house after a long day of moving is a quick way to lose some holiday spirit.
- Protect the Floors: Holiday weather means mud, slush, and dirt. Lay down heavy plastic runners or cardboard along high-traffic floor areas in both homes.
5. Embrace The Season In Your New Neighborhood
Once the heavy lifting is done, take time to settle in and enjoy your new community.
- Introduce Yourself To Neighbors: A quick holiday greeting or a note in the mailbox is an easy way to break the ice with your new neighbors.
- Explore Local Traditions: Check out local drive-through light displays, festive downtown shopping nights, or community markets to get acclimated to your new area.
- Keep Meals Simple: Don’t stress about cooking an elaborate holiday dinner in an unpacked kitchen. Order from a local restaurant or caterer to support a small business in your new neighborhood.
Ready To Find Your Next Home?
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or relocate before the new year, having an experienced local real estate team in your corner makes all the difference. Reach out to your Helen Adams Realty agent today to discuss your real estate goals!