Tips for Moving During the Holidays

Moving during the holidays can be a stressful situation, but it also sets you up for a fresh start at the beginning of the new year. The key to successfully moving in the winter months is to plan ahead and prepare for the unexpected. Follow these tips for a much smoother experience so you can still enjoy the Holiday season.

Plan your move as soon as possible
Moving during the Holidays can take a lot of time during an already very busy time. Plan your calendar well in advance and mark off dates for things that you cannot change. Also block off time for other, less essential commitments, like social events.

Don’t rush packing
Give yourself plenty of time to pack, especially if you’re moving during Christmas. A move can take up a lot of time, and you’re likely to be slowed down by other obligations and fun things that you want to do. Schedule time to pack so the days don’t slip away, leaving you knee-deep in moving boxes when you’d rather be spending time with family or having fun.

Be sure to budget
A move at any time of year is costly, but your wallet may be stretched even further when moving during the holidays. Create separate budgets for both holiday spending and moving to make sure that you are not caught by surprise during the process of moving.

Save holiday delivery boxes
Set aside all of your delivery boxes to use for packing. Saving those leftover boxes instead of throwing them away can help keep your budget in check. Ask your friends and family to keep theirs for you to use as well.

Donate to those in need
Moving is always a good time to purge possessions that you don’t need anymore. And moving during the Holidays is perhaps the best time to donate your unwanted possessions to a local charity. You’ll lighten your load during your move and will also help families in need.

Schedule utility activation
A night without heat will not be comfortable when moving in the winter months, so promptly schedule your utilities to be turned on. Then you won’t have to worry about an unheated home after you’ve completed your move.

Prepare for inclement weather
Winter weather can be unpredictable, so prepare for the worst by covering things like mattresses and sofas in case the weather takes a turn. Think ahead on how to keep your belongings safe for any type of bad weather.