Moving Over the Holidays

Long-distance moving during the holiday season

The holidays can be stressful. So can moving out of state. When you add the two together, you might think it’s a recipe for — well, you get the idea. 

Fortunately, moving over the holidays doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Not when U-Pack® has your back. Not only can we help with long-distance moves to and from most U.S. cities, but we also offer helpful advice to make the process as smooth as possible. 

Keep reading to learn more about what it takes to make a holiday move successful.

Plan your holiday move

Whether you're moving during Thanksgiving, Christmas or another major holiday, staying organized is the best way to keep tasks running smoothly and stress levels low. 

The holiday season can fill up fast, so you’ll want to reserve moving equipment as soon as possible. You might also need to be flexible with your dates. 

A moving checklist will help you avoid missing important tasks while planning (and attending gatherings). 

Here are some things to keep in mind:

Your moving budget might need to be higher

Things can be more expensive during the holidays, from hotel accommodations to fuel prices. Expect higher costs when budgeting and saving for a move. 

Book movers in advance for the most affordable rate, as last-minute reservations often cost more. 

With U-Pack, quotes are free, and there’s no deposit to make a reservation. If plans change, it’s easy to update your booking or cancel it for free up to 7 days before the scheduled move date.

Don’t forget to reserve personal travel ASAP

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, if needed, a place to stay overnight.

Remember that airports can be hectic during some seasons. Allowing extra time to navigate and get through security will alleviate some of the stress. If you’re driving, be aware of increased highway traffic and anticipate potential delays, especially around the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. 

Check the weather forecast

Depending on the time of year and the regions you’re traveling through, you might need extra time to drive in ice or snow. Use a weather app to check conditions before hitting the road to be prepared.

Other tips for holiday moves

Follow these additional tips for the least stressful move during the holidays.

Celebrate (while allowing for modifications)

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 celebrate in the new home, keep decorations in separate boxes (don’t forget to label clearly!) so you can unpack them quickly.
• Enjoy festivities at an earlier or later date to avoid interfering with travel plans.

Communicate with family and friends

Be open with family and friends about how you feel and what they can do to help.

You might need to alter get-together dates and times because of your moving itinerary or hold parties at their homes instead of yours as you plan to say goodbye to loved ones.

After the move, Christmas or New Year's cards are a great way to let people know your new address (even if they’re late)!

Maintain a positive attitude

Any move can be less overwhelming 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 minor inconveniences. Remember that the relocation process is temporary, and you’ll soon be settled in with a new routine.

FAQs about festive season moving

How far in advance should I plan my holiday move?

It’s best to start planning as soon as possible. Start comparing moving rates immediately upon learning you need to relocate to get the best price and the best chance of getting the equipment and date you want. If you can be flexible, make sure to check dates before and after the holiday to compare rates and availability.

Is it best to move before or after a major holiday?

It depends. If you wish to celebrate in your new home, you’ll want to move before. The reverse is true if you want one last shindig in the current place. Moving company rates can vary, so checking prices before and after the holiday can help you find the best deal.

The roads and airports can be busy before and after Thanksgiving, especially with Black Friday sales and people returning home after visiting family. Before Christmas is typically busier than after, making the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day a popular time to move.

What about relocating during spring and summer holidays?

Long Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends make these holidays another option for relocating, especially for those wishing to minimize time away from work. Be mindful of businesses that might be closed on those Mondays and extra traffic on the roads. 

July 4 might come with road closures for parades or other celebrations in some towns. Keep that in mind when planning driving routes.

Are moving companies closed for the holidays?

Many movers close on major holidays. 

U-Pack observes these holidays, although some service centers may keep reduced hours:

• New Year's Day
• Memorial Day
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving 
• Day after Thanksgiving
• Christmas Eve
• Christmas Day

U-Pack can help with your out-of-state move anytime

U-Pack serves all 50 states, Canada and Puerto Rico, and we’re ready to help with your move any time of the year! We’re equipped to handle moves with unique circumstances, including those during holidays.

Get your free, no-obligation quote online or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant.

If you have questions, let us know in the comments!