It is official: the holidays have arrived. Attempting to keep up with the hustle and bustle of the season can be overwhelming enough, let alone trying to plan an entire move on top of it. Coordinating a smooth relocation among holiday parties, gift buying and family traditions is no easy task, but a little preparation can go a long way. Here are our top moving tips to help keep you sane and alleviate stress that can comes along with a holiday move.
When planning a move over the holidays, one of the first things to do is to find and reserve a reputable moving company.
The demand for moving services at this time of year is typically lower than average, meaning moving companies also tend to be less active. Some companies may be closed for key dates of your move and the move itself may take longer than normal since employees will likely take time off to see their families.
While comparing quotes, be sure to notify the company of your moving schedule well ahead of time. Some moving companies may charge more during the holidays, unless your employer is working with a relocation management company – then you can expect rates to be about the same.
A relocation management company (RMC) will always provide a list of preferred, licensed movers for your convenience, but if you plan to book a mover yourself, don’t risk booking someone inexperienced. Using licensed professionals will ensure your relocation goes smoothly from start to finish.
Packing
A gift list shouldn’t be the only list you check twice this season. Start your moving checklist early so you can stay organized and stress-free throughout your move.
Start by prioritizing your belongings by necessity so you can easily find the things you use most often, such as clothing, toiletries and kitchen utensils. To keep your family’s holiday spirits up, try to save your decorations for last and maintain a festive living room or family room. Even if you don’t finish unpacking the whole house before the holidays arrive, at the very least, you can start by setting up decorations in your new place to make it feel a little more like home.
Traveling
In most places, moving during the winter months can be tricky due to unpredictable weather conditions. Be sure to check weather forecasts regularly so you can plan for potentially precarious road conditions or canceled/delayed flights. If snow is expected to fall, take some time to winterize your car and any boxes that may need to be shipped or placed in storage.
Some families choose to move during the holidays since school is out of session and the kids won’t miss class. Keep in mind though that this time of year is magic for children, so it’s important to prepare kids for the transition well in advance. Helping them keep in touch with their friends back home as you’re settling may also lift their spirits.
While moving away might mean leaving behind some family traditions, take this opportunity to create new ones. A great way to keep the family entertained, while also getting acquainted with the new community, is to attend some local holiday events.
Moving during the holidays may not be ideal, but it’s what you make out of the situation. Keep your loved ones close, and remember, love is what the holidays are really about.
