Pros and Cons of Moving During the Holidays

Moving day. Did those words send genuine shivers down your spine?

Our team knows exactly how overwhelming the moving experience can be at any time of the year, but moving during the holiday season? Ho-ho-oh no. 

We typically associate the holidays with celebrations, spending time with relatives we haven’t seen in ages, and traditions bound to warm even the Grinch’s two-sizes-too-small heart. So, deciding to move during the wintry season can throw an extra wrench into an already busy time. 

However, it also has some surprising perks that might make it worthwhile for your family. But before making the big decision, let’s weigh the pros and cons to see if a holiday move is right for you.  

Pro #1: Less Competition 

With most people focused on their year-end itinerary, fewer families and individuals are packing up and relocating. This quieter moving season makes it much easier to book movers, reserve rental trucks, or secure storage units without the stress of competing for availability.

On top of that, having more flexibility in choosing your moving date means you can plan your move around your schedule, not someone else’s. If you’re in the market for a new home, the slower real estate activity during the holidays can also be a bonus. With fewer buyers actively searching, you may find it easier to negotiate pricing or lock in that property you’ve been eyeing.

Pro #2: Lower Moving Costs  

If there’s one thing absolutely everyone loves, it’s saving money, and moving during the holiday season might be easier on your wallet. With fewer people relocating at this time of year, the demand for moving services tends to drop, making it possible to find better deals. Many moving companies offer seasonal discounts or promotions to fill their schedules, meaning you could snag a more affordable rate compared to peak times. 

Beyond that, other moving-related expenses, like truck rentals and storage units, often come with reduced pricing in the “off-season.” This can add up to significant savings, leaving you with extra funds to put toward holiday parties or getting a head start on setting up your new home.

Pro #3: Flexible Schedules 

Our beloved holiday season often comes with more open schedules, making it an opportune time for planning a move. Many workplaces slow down or offer extended vacation time, so fitting in a move can feel less rushed. For families, school breaks mean children are already at home, minimizing interruptions to routines and allowing for a smoother transition to the new environment. 

Pro #4: Family and Friend Support 

This time of the year naturally brings people together, and that sense of connection can be a huge advantage when moving. Our big family get-togethers are already on the calendar, so you might find more willing and gracious hands to help pack boxes, load furniture, or even organize the new space.  

Beyond the practical help, the emotional support of friends and family can make a world of difference during a major life change. Their encouragement, shared meals, and even a few laughs along the way can transform what could feel like a daunting move into one of the most memorable parts of the season. 

Pro #5: Fresh Start for the New Year 

There’s something so appealing about stepping into the new year with a clean slate, right? And moving into a new home would surely amplify such a feeling.  

Winter moves also provide a head start for tackling spring projects. With your new home already set up, you’ll have more time to plan landscaping, renovations, or other improvements once the warmer weather rolls around.  

Con #1: Inclement Weather  

Snow, ice, and rain have a way of complicating even the most well-thought-out of plans. Slippery roads and reduced visibility pose safety risks for drivers and movers alike, while freezing temperatures could damage delicate items during the move itself. Even loading and unloading boxes can become challenging when icy sidewalks or wet conditions rear their ugly heads. 

So, keep an eye on the forecast, create a backup plan for bad weather, and prepare the home for winter conditions—like salting driveways. Though manageable with a little prep time, winter weather’s unpredictable nature adds a complex layer to moving day. 

Con #2: Extra Stress  

The holiday season is already a whirlwind of activity, with gift shopping, family gatherings, and year-end commitments filling up the calendar. So, adding packing up and moving to the mix can feel overwhelming, piling on even more pressure during the busiest time of the year. 

This extra layer of stress might leave you feeling, in a word, frazzled, when you’d rather be enjoying the season with loved ones. To keep things a little more manageable, set realistic expectations, delegate when possible, and prioritize self-care amidst the cheerful chaos.  

Con #3: Lack of Movers 

As we discussed, the holiday season often means less demand for services, but it doesn’t guarantee easy access to movers. Many pros take extended time off at the end of the year, which can lead to reduced availability in some areas. 

To avoid any dreadful last-minute scrambling, booking early is key. Reaching out to movers well in advance secures your preferred dates and gives you time to compare options and plan around potential service gaps. 

Con #4: Missing Traditions 

Moving during the holidays can mean putting cherished traditions on hold (for the time being), which might be hard for everyone involved. 

From baking cookies to gathering around the table for those familiar meals, the usual festivities might take a backseat to packing boxes and coordinating logistics. And for the kids, this disruption can feel especially significant for obvious reasons. 

For families with kids, unpacking holiday-themed items first or enjoying a cozy holiday movie night in your new space can make the transition feel more special. 

Tips for a Successful Holiday Move 

Along with crafting a budget that sets aside extra cash for any unexpected moving costs, here are a few other tips to help your holiday move go off without a hitch.

• Plan Early: Start your preparations as soon as possible to avoid last-minute stress.  

• Declutter and Donate: Give that acid washed jean jacket and other unwanted items a new home.

• Pack Smart and Label Clearly: Use organized packing methods and label all boxes clearly to make unpacking easier.  

• Prioritize Holiday Essentials: Set aside centerpiece decorations or items that hold the most holiday sentiment so you can still enjoy the festive atmosphere, even while moving. 

• Communicate with Family and Friends: Let your loved ones know your plans early to avoid any confusion or disappointment.  

Expert Tip

Don't risk a chilly welcome in your new home. You've probably felt the bite of winter without heat before, so act now. Schedule utility activation a few days before your move.

Is Moving During the Holidays Right for You? 

So with all of that said, is moving during the holidays right for you? Well, it all comes down to your situation and what matters most to you and your loved ones. Can you handle the hustle and bustle of packing while enjoying those classic holiday traditions without feeling too overwhelmed? Would starting the year fresh in a new home be worth a temporary disruption?

On the other hand, remember those benefits like saving money and having extra time off to settle in. Weigh your priorities—whether it’s keeping traditions, cutting costs, or experiencing a smooth move—and make the choice that fits best (and keeps the holiday spirit alive). 

Ready to take the next step? Our team is here to help you make your holiday move as smooth as possible!