Moving During the Holidays- 6 Tips to Get You Through Your Move
Moving during the holidays can offer the benefit of extra time off to move and get settled. Businesses often close for the larger holidays giving you time off and extra PTO can be used up against business closures to provide additional time off. If you choose to take advantage of a holiday move and often slower schedules, consider these 6 tips to get you through your move successfully.
Scheduling your move
If you’re planning on moving during the holiday season, it’s critical to schedule movers as early as possible. The holiday season can be a busy time for moving companies.
Many people use their time off to move. Movers often have less availability because of high demand and limited holiday hours. Booking early ensures you secure your preferred date and it avoids last-minute stress.
Additionally, set a realistic and detailed timeline for your move. Consider possible delays like winter weather, holiday traffic, and business closures.
Allow extra time for packing, decluttering, and organizing. A well defined plan helps the process go smoothly and it gives you time to relax and enjoy the holidays in your new home. Begin planning right away so you won’t feel rushed or overwhelmed.
Prepping your new home
Preparing your new home for a winter move-in requires some essential steps to ensure safety and comfort. Begin by having your furnace checked for function and turned on a day in advance. Testing your HVAC system ahead of time can help you save time and avoid frustration if anything needs repair.
Make sure all pipes are well-insulated to stop them from freezing. This is important in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and plumbing near exterior walls. If the house has been vacant, inspect for frozen pipes and thaw them safely if necessary.
Protect your floors from debris and potential damage by using plastic sheeting, rugs, or heavy-duty mats. This is especially important in busy areas. Clear driveways and walkways of snow and ice to ensure safe access, and have salt or sand on hand for slippery surfaces.
Notifying people and services
Let friends, family, and services know about your move during the holidays and set up mail forwarding. This is important for a smooth transition and it will ensure cards and gifts make it to the correct address!
Start by updating your address with the postal service for mail forwarding to avoid missing important correspondence. Notify utility companies, banks, insurance providers, subscription services, and any other entities that need your new address.
If you’re expecting holiday deliveries, ensure online retailers and delivery services have your updated address to avoid misrouted packages. Acting early minimizes complications and helps you focus on settling into your new home during the festive season.
Simplify your holiday plans
Simplifying your holiday plans while moving during the holidays starts with setting realistic expectations. Recognize that you might not have time or energy for complex decorations or dinner parties. Focus on what matters most to you and prioritize accordingly.
Consider packing a “holiday essentials” box with important items to grab so you can prepare for the holiday more quickly. This will eliminate the stress of tracking down that one specific box with decorations or other holiday themed items.
Take advantage of holiday sales
After moving into a new home, holiday sales are a great chance to buy essentials and new home decor. This can help make your space feel at home. Whether you need furniture to fill empty rooms, kitchen gadgets to make entertaining easier, or festive decorations to create a cozy atmosphere, these sales offer great deals to help you stretch your budget.
Many retailers offer discounts on home improvement items and appliances. This is a great chance to upgrade your space and tackle small projects before the new year. Shopping during the holiday season can turn the often overwhelming task of setting up a new home into an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
And don’t forget, when you move, you often receive coupons and discounts from your local hardware stores and service providers. This is a great way to save on larger purchases.
Enjoy the holiday, don’t rush
Moving during the holidays can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to prioritize taking your time. The season can add pressure to unpack quickly or host gatherings. However, moving can be a big change. It needs careful planning and patience.
Rushing can lead to unnecessary stress, misplaced items, or even damage to belongings. Instead, focus on one task at a time. Set realistic goals, even if it means reducing your holiday plans. Don’t be afraid to get carryout, give the gift of a gift card and wrap that present in a gift bag.
Remember, the holidays are about making joyful moments and connections. This can happen whether your home is fully unpacked or not. Taking it slow ensures that you settle in comfortably and avoid burnout during an already busy time.
If you need help planning a move, contact MVM to learn more about how we can help or request a free quote.