Moving Over the Holidays

When the holidays and relocating overlap

Holidays are a time of celebration and tradition, but when those dates coincide with a long-distance move, the added tasks can feel overwhelming.

Fortunately, with a mover like U-Pack®, you can have an easier out-of-state move any time of the year. Use these 10 tips to make the most of the season while moving.

10 tips to keep the peace when moving during the holidays

Whether you're moving during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or another important holiday, these tips can help keep moving tasks smooth and stress levels low. 

1. Keep organized

The holiday season can fill up fast, even without a move to plan. Use a moving checklist to avoid missing important tasks while planning or attending celebrations or gatherings. 

2. Adjust your moving budget for higher costs

From personal accommodations to fuel prices, traveling during holidays can be more expensive than at other times of the year. Expect higher costs when saving and budgeting for a move. Booking in advance is your best bet for the most affordable rate, since last-minute reservations often come with a higher price tag. 

With U-Pack, quotes are free, and reservations require no deposit. If plans change, it’s easy to update your reservation or cancel at no cost up to 7 days before the scheduled move date.

3. Be flexible with dates

Depending on the time of year, you may need to choose a date just before or immediately after a holiday to find an available mover, so it's helpful to stay flexible if possible. 

It’s typically better to move before the special day, except for Christmas (since most travel happens the week before). 

4. Book movers early

Booking a mover as soon as possible is always recommended, but it’s essential around the holidays. Booking early is the best way to secure the moving equipment on your preferred date. 

Keep in mind that some companies perform equipment maintenance during the off-peak winter season, so there may be fewer options. 

5. Reserve travel accommodations well in advance

Holidays are busy travel times, so if you need hotels, airfare or other accommodations during the move, don’t wait until the last minute. Make reservations as early as possible to secure travel on the most convenient date and a place to stay overnight if needed.

6. Plan for travel delays

Airports can be hectic during some seasons, so allow extra time to navigate and get through security. If you’re driving, be aware of increased highway traffic and anticipate potential delays, especially around the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. 

7. Review weather forecasts 

Depending on the time of year and where you’re traveling, you might need extra time to drive in icy or snowy conditions. Check the forecast before hitting the road to make sure you're prepared.

8. Be open with family and friends

Keep an open line of communication with family and friends. From altered get-together schedules to your moving itinerary, they’ll want to stay informed. And don't forget to make plans to say goodbye to loved ones.

9. Stay positive

Any move can be less stressful if you keep a positive attitude. Focus on the excitement of the season and anticipate the good times in the new home as you deal with any minor inconveniences during the process. Remember that the relocation process is temporary, and you’ll soon be settled in with a new routine.

10. Celebrate (even if it looks different)

Don’t give up celebrations just because of a move. Start some new traditions or scale back the old ones.

• It’s okay to put up less decor than usual when relocating after the holiday! Just plan to pack decorations last.
• If you plan to decorate the new home for the season, keep decorations in separate boxes you can unpack quickly.
• Choose a celebration date earlier or later to avoid interfering with travel plans.

Plan your out-of-state holiday move today with U-Pack

U-Pack serves all 50 states, Canada and Puerto Rico, and we’re ready to help with your long-distance move under many unique circumstances. Get a free, no-obligation quote online or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant.

If you have questions about relocating at any time of the year, let us know in the comments!