Moving During the Holidays
If you’re wondering whether you should move during the holidays or wait it out, you’ve come to the right place. MiniMoves® has compiled a list of the pros and cons of moving during the holiday season. You’ll be surprised at some of the good reasons to move during the holidays.
Pros:
Availability
Most people move during the warmer summer months when schools are out, and the weather is nice. Because winter is the moving industry’s off-season, you will find it easier to schedule your preferred day with professional movers or find rental trucks on the dates you need. Also, temporary moving storage availability is higher during the winter because most people have completed their move already and college students are back in school having taken their belongings out of summer storage. The week between Christmas and New Year’s Day can get busy so if that’s when you plan to move, set your dates early.
Donate & Downsize
Moving less items means less work and saves money. It reduces the cost of your professional move or may get you into a smaller rental truck if you’re moving yourself. Especially because it’s the holiday season, many charities and organizations need donations! This is a great time to share personal belongings or household items you no longer want or need. Giving unwanted items to donation centers or charities is a wonderful way to show kindness and help others, and it’s one less thing you need to find a place for in your new home!
Less Holiday Stress
What a fantastic time to complete your local or long-distance small move. You won’t have to look for the best home decorations because you’ll be too busy moving! Your family will not expect you to make the same tasty holiday pastry you always do, knowing your bakeware is all packed up. “I’m moving” is the perfect reason to show up for dinner empty handed. And, if you need moving help, most of your friends and family will be in the jolly spirit of the season and will be more willing to lend a hand.
Cons:
Bad Weather
It’s hard to plan a move around the weather, so the best you can do is be prepared, and if things get really bad, be flexible. Check the weather forecast several days ahead of time and keep an eye out for any changes leading up to moving day. Icy and snow-covered stairs and sidewalks can cause accidents, so have a snow shovel and some salt or sand for a safe walking path. If it’s really cold, don’t plug your electronics in or turn them on for a couple of hours after you move in to let them come back to room temperature.
Having some flexibility can help too. If the weather is going to be bad on the day you picked, moving a few days earlier or later might be the best choice.
If you are moving cross country, be prepared for weather delays in route. Movers get caught-up in weather delays and rental trucks do too. Plan some extra time to drive a longer route away from the weather. If you are using a professional mover, make sure you build some flexibility into your temporary living arrangements until your furniture arrives.
Skipping the Holidays
The main disadvantage of moving during the holidays is missing out on your family gathering. This will be a sacrifice that you’ll have to decide whether it’s worth it or not. Most of the time will be spent packing so there may not be time for your family traditions. However, if spending time with family over the holidays is not typically a positive experience for you, then moving this time of year is a perfect reason to say, “I just can’t make it.”
Moving during the holidays may not be your first choice, but it does not have to be stressful. With a positive and flexible attitude and the right preparation, moving during this time will give you a great start on the new year and all the things it has in store. Get a MiniMoves free quote for your winter move and start working with a professional moving company today.
