Expert tips to move during holidays are essential if you want to stay sane during a seasonal move.
Moving is never simple—but doing it during the holidays? That’s next-level.
Between winter weather, packed calendars, and increased seasonal expenses, holiday moves can easily become overwhelming.
What makes holiday moves especially challenging is the collision of two major stressors: relocation and the festive season.
You’re juggling gift shopping, travel plans, and family gatherings, while also trying to organize packing, utilities, and moving trucks.
Add winter storms or limited daylight hours to the mix, and things can get complicated fast.
But with the right planning and a few smart strategies, you can manage your move without missing out on the magic of the holidays.
This guide breaks down 20 tips to help you stay organized, save money, and actually enjoy the process.
Stage 1: Early Planning
Start here to set the tone for a stress-free holiday move.
A successful relocation during the holidays starts long before moving day.
This stage helps you build a realistic timeline, lock in your movers, and create a game plan that works around your holiday calendar.
1. Start Planning 6–8 Weeks in Advance
Don’t wait until the last minute. The earlier you begin organizing your move, the more manageable everything becomes. Ideally, start planning 6 to 8 weeks before your moving date.
Create a timeline that includes all key tasks: finding movers, decluttering, gathering supplies, and packing.
Be sure to factor in holiday-specific events like school breaks, shopping weekends, and family traditions.
This way, you won’t have to choose between packing boxes and attending your child’s holiday recital.
2. Book Your Movers Before Schedules Fill Up
Even though winter is a slower season for many moving companies, the holidays can still bring scheduling challenges due to reduced staffing and limited availability.
Once your move date is confirmed, book your moving company right away.
Early booking helps ensure you get the time slot you want and might even save you money with off-peak pricing.
A trusted provider like Asr Moving can also give you peace of mind with professional service tailored for winter and holiday moves.
3. Set a Realistic Budget with Holiday Extras in Mind
Moving is already expensive, but when paired with holiday costs, it can easily stretch your finances.
Take time to outline a detailed budget that accounts for both your moving expenses (like truck rental, movers, packing supplies) and holiday spending (gifts, travel, decorations).
Use a spreadsheet or budgeting app to track every purchase and stay on top of your spending. A clear financial picture will help you make better decisions and avoid surprises later.
4. Notify Utility Providers Before Holiday Closures
During the holidays, some utility companies may operate on shorter hours or close altogether.
To avoid moving into a home with no heat, electricity, or water, contact your utility providers early—both for your current home and your new one.
Set your disconnection and connection dates in advance, and confirm them as your move approaches.
This step ensures your family stays warm, safe, and comfortable the moment you walk through the door of your new home.
Stage 2: Smart Packing to Beat the Holiday Rush
Once your move is on the calendar, it’s time to get strategic with packing.
Between gift shopping, holiday parties, and family traditions, your schedule is already packed.
That’s why being efficient with how you sort, pack, and label your items is essential.
The following tips will help you stay organized and reduce stress while preserving your holiday spirit.
5. Declutter Before You Pack
Before you tape up your first box, take time to get rid of the things you don’t need.
Holiday moving is the perfect opportunity to let go of old clothes, unused kitchen appliances, and outdated decorations.
Donate gently used items to local charities to make your move lighter—and your heart warmer.
6. Reuse Holiday Delivery Boxes
With all the holiday shopping happening online, you’re probably already receiving plenty of sturdy boxes at your doorstep. Instead of tossing them, repurpose them for your move.
They’re ideal for small items like decorations, toys, or pantry goods. Not only does this save money, but it’s also a smart eco-friendly choice during a season already heavy on waste.
7. Buy Packing Supplies During Holiday Sales
Holiday promotions aren’t just for TVs and toys—you can score serious discounts on moving supplies, too.
Look for deals on tape, labels, bubble wrap, and storage bins during pre- and post-holiday sales. You can also ask local stores if they have spare boxes available.
Many grocery and department stores are happy to give them away, especially during inventory shifts.
8. Label Everything—Twice
Don’t leave your unpacking to chance. Use a detailed labeling system on every box—include the destination room, a brief description of contents, and special handling instructions (like “fragile” or “open first”).
Take it a step further by color-coding labels or tape by room (e.g., red for kitchen, blue for bedrooms).
This makes unloading faster and helps movers or family members know exactly where things belong.
9. Create a Moving Day Survival Kit
On moving day, you don’t want to dig through boxes looking for your child’s medication or phone charger.
Pack a designated “essentials” bag or bin that includes:
- Important documents (IDs, lease, insurance)
- Daily medications and first-aid items
- Chargers and power banks
- Snacks and bottled water
- Cleaning supplies and trash bags
- Tools (screwdrivers, box cutters)
- Winter gear (gloves, scarves, extra socks)
Keep this kit accessible at all times—it’s your lifeline in the chaos of moving day.
10. Pack Decorations Separately (and Accessibly)
Just because you’re moving doesn’t mean you have to skip the holiday spirit.
Designate one small box or bin for holiday essentials like a mini tree, string lights, a wreath, or stockings.
Label it clearly and keep it near the front of your moving truck or car.
Once you arrive, you can unpack this box first and instantly create a sense of warmth and celebration in your new home—even before the rest of the furniture arrives.
Stage 3: Make Moving Day Safe, Smooth, and Seasonal
With packing done, your focus now shifts to making moving day go off without a hitch.
Cold weather, slippery paths, and shorter daylight hours can complicate your timeline—but a bit of planning goes a long way.
This section is all about practical ways to protect your home, your belongings, and your safety as you tackle the big day.
11. Start Early to Maximize Daylight
Winter means shorter days, so aim to begin your move as early as possible.
Starting at sunrise gives you the most natural light, which reduces the risk of accidents and makes unpacking easier.
Tips:
- Schedule your movers to arrive early in the day
- Use portable lights or headlamps if your move stretches into late afternoon
- Make sure exterior lights are functional at both homes
12. Be Weather Ready
Snow, sleet, and freezing rain can all show up uninvited.
Prepare in advance for bad weather to keep your move on track and your belongings safe.
Pack and keep within reach:
- Shovels and de-icer or rock salt for sidewalks and driveways
- Non-slip mats or cardboard at entryways
- Towels and blankets to dry off wet surfaces
- Heavy-duty plastic sheeting to cover floors and furniture during transport
13. Protect Your Floors from Snow and Mud
You’ll have a lot of foot traffic in and out of your home. Without proper protection, slush and dirt can quickly ruin flooring.
Protective materials to use:
- Old towels, drop cloths, or broken-down cardboard for pathways
- Plastic runners or tarps for carpeted areas
- Shoe booties or designate indoor-only footwear for helpers
- Keep a bucket and mop, rags, and all-purpose cleaner nearby for quick spot cleaning
14. Secure Your New Home
Don’t overlook security—moving chaos and holiday distractions can make you a target. Take a few simple steps to safeguard your property.
Consider installing before or on moving day:
- Smart locks with app control or temporary codes for movers
- Motion-sensor lights to illuminate your new home’s exterior
- Indoor security cameras (even basic models) for entryways and windows
- Double-check all windows and doors lock properly
Cold weather and holiday distractions shouldn’t compromise your safety. These quick upgrades give you peace of mind while you settle in.
Stage 4: Keep the Holiday Spirit Alive
Moving doesn’t mean skipping the holidays—it just means celebrating a little differently.
Even if your home is full of boxes, you can still bring the joy of the season with you.
These ideas will help you stay connected to loved ones, involve the whole family in the transition, and make new memories in your new space.
15. Turn Holiday Cards into Moving Announcements
Why send two sets of mail when one will do? Use your annual holiday cards to share your new address with friends and loved ones.
What to include:
- A brief holiday message
- Your new address and expected move date
- Optional: A quick family photo in your new home or in-progress move
It’s a practical and heartfelt way to update everyone—and save time.
16. Pass the Hosting Torch This Year
If you’re the usual holiday host, it’s perfectly okay to take a break this year. Let someone else take the reins so you can focus on settling in.
How to handle it:
- Communicate early with family or friends
- Offer to bring a dish or decorations if you still want to participate
- Be honest—your home is in transition, and your energy is limited
Most loved ones will be happy to step in and give you a much-needed breather.
17. Involve the Kids in Decorating
Moving can be tough on children, especially during the holidays. Involving them in the decorating process gives them something fun to look forward to.
Ideas for engagement:
- Let kids unpack their favorite holiday decorations
- Set up a mini tree in their new bedroom
- Encourage them to create new traditions in the new space
It’s a small way to bring comfort and normalcy during a big change.
18. Create a Temporary Holiday Corner
Even if the rest of your home is still in moving mode, designating a small, festive corner can make all the difference.
What to include:
- A pre-lit tree or tabletop decor
- Stockings, string lights, or a scented candle
- A cozy chair or blanket for relaxing moments
This dedicated space can help you feel grounded and joyful—even if the rest of your living room is still in boxes.
Stage 5: Final Touches for a Smoother Transition
The final stretch of your holiday move is all about staying organized and preserving what matters most—your peace of mind and quality time with loved ones.
These last two tips will help you start fresh in your new home without losing sight of what makes the season special.
19. Keep Important Family Documents Handy
Essential paperwork should travel with you, not get packed away or risk being lost during transit.
Must-haves to keep accessible:
- School records for a smooth enrollment if relocating districts
- Identification documents like passports, birth certificates, and licenses
- Health insurance cards and vaccination records
- Lease/mortgage papers and your mover’s contract
Pro tip: Use a fireproof document bag or sturdy carry-on box you’ll personally transport. It ensures quick access and security in case of delays.
20. Make Time for Self-Care & Family Moments
Amid the boxes, lists, and logistics, don’t forget to hit pause and soak in the season. Your physical and emotional well-being deserves attention too.
Ways to build in calm:
- Add “family time” into your moving calendar, even for 30 minutes
- Take a walk around your new neighborhood
- Watch a holiday movie or play a favorite board game
- Celebrate small wins—like finishing the kitchen or finding your holiday mug
The move might be hectic, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make new memories. A little joy goes a long way.
Wrapping Up
These 20 expert tips to move during holidays are designed to help you stay ahead of the rush, protect your belongings, and maintain the holiday spirit—even if you’re surrounded by moving boxes.If you’d rather not tackle it all on your own, Asr Moving is here to help.
Our experienced team specializes in stress-free, efficient moves across Edmonton—even during the busiest times of the year. From packing and loading to full-service relocation, we’ve got your back.
