Winter is off-peak season for moving and it’s easy to see why. Cold weather, holiday plans, and a slower real estate market mean fewer people are packing up and heading out. But here’s the upside: less demand means lower moving costs and more flexibility to book movers or rentals.
Why Moving During the Holidays is Great
Moving during the holidays comes with surprising perks. For starters, family and friends are often available to help with packing, loading, or other tasks.
You’re also likely to have time off work, making it easier to plan and organize the entire move without rushing. It’s also the off-season for homebuying, so there’s less competition from other buyers or renters.
While fewer homes might be on the market, sellers this time of year are usually motivated to close deals quickly. It’s a win-win for your holiday move.
The Worst Days to Move During Holidays
The holidays are a busy time for everyone. Movers and rental trucks will be in short supply, and holiday traffic is no joke. If you’ve got a smaller home and not much to pack, moving with your car can be super easy and budget-friendly.
But for bigger households or long-distance moves, renting a moving truck is the way to go. Just make sure you pick the right size so you’re not stuck making extra trips or paying for space you don’t need.
If you’re hiring movers to help load or unload, book them early, and don’t forget to grab a quick truck rental estimate online to compare prices and lock in a good deal.
So, just a heads up from your Louisville & Indiana professional movers: avoid these dates when planning your holiday season move.
- Thanksgiving Day (November 28, 2024)
- Christmas Eve (December 24, 2024)
- Christmas Day (December 25, 2024)
- New Year’s Eve (December 31, 2024)
- New Year’s Day (January 1, 2025)
- Holiday Weekends (surrounding these dates)
If you can, aim for a midweek move in early December or after New Year’s. It’ll save you a lot of hassle.
Smart Tips for Packing Holiday Items
- Use clear plastic bins.
Store decorations and holiday items in clear bins instead of cardboard boxes. This way, you can easily see what’s inside without digging through everything.
- Wrap delicate ornaments.
Use bubble wrap, tissue paper, or even socks to protect fragile ornaments. Pack them snugly to avoid shifting during the move.
- Label boxes clearly.
Write “Holiday Decorations” on all sides of the box and add details like “Tree Lights” or “Stockings” so you know exactly what’s inside.
- Pack wrapping supplies together.
Keep gift wrap, tape, scissors, and ribbon in one box. Consider using a gift wrap storage bag to keep rolls from getting crushed.
- Secure string lights.
Wrap lights around a piece of cardboard or an empty paper towel roll to keep them tangle-free.
- Pack a “Holiday Essentials” box.
If you plan to decorate shortly after moving in, pack your favorite or most-used decorations in one box for easy access.
- Store candles carefully.
Avoid temperature-sensitive spots like unheated garages during transit to prevent candles from melting or cracking. Wrap them individually to keep them from scratching or breaking.
- Use soft items for padding.
Wrap decorations in holiday towels, blankets, or stockings to save space and add extra cushioning.
- Pack early.
Start packing holiday items you won’t need right away, like outdoor lights or seasonal dinnerware, to reduce stress closer to moving day.
- Take photos before packing.
Snap pictures of your decorated tree or displays so you can easily recreate the same setup in your new home.
Don’t Forget to Check In With Your Mover About the Weather.
Winter weather is no joke, so don’t forget to touch base with your movers as the big day gets closer. Ask them what they do if snow or ice shows up.
Do they reschedule, delay, or have tricks to keep things moving? If a storm’s on the way, they might suggest adjusting the time or taking a different route.
If you’re handling the move yourself, stay on top of the forecast. Be ready with snow shovels, ice melt, and furniture covers to keep your stuff (and yourself) safe.
A quick chat with your movers or some weather prep on your end can make sure nothing gets in the way of your holiday move!
Make Your Holiday Move Easy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average long-distance moving cost?
The average cost ranges from $2,500 to $5,000, depending on the distance, size of your home, and services needed.
How can I find the cheapest moving truck rental long distance?
Compare rates from a few companies, including People-Move Moving. Book early and avoid peak days to save.
Where can I get long-distance moving quotes instantly?
Just call People-Move Moving to get instant moving quotes.
How much do moving companies long distance cost, and how can I save?
Cost depends on the size and distance of your move. Save by downsizing, preparing early, and moving during off-peak times.
