They say timing is everything, and when the calendar flips to the holiday season, that saying couldn’t be truer.

If you’ve been asking yourself, “Should you move during the holidays?”, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of Americans pack their boxes while the rest of the country is stringing up lights and shopping for last-minute gifts.

In fact, around 24–27% of moves in some U.S. cities happen during the winter months, even though it’s considered the “off-season” for the moving industry.

But holiday moving isn’t for everyone. There are real holiday season moving benefits and drawbacks you need to weigh. On one hand, you could save costs by moving during the winter holidays due to lower demand for movers, cheaper rental rates, and motivated landlords or home sellers.

On the other hand, you’ll need to handle weather challenges, possible travel delays, and the reality of balancing boxes with Christmas cookies.

The good news is we’re not giving you vague “maybe it’s a good idea” answers. This is your complete breakdown, where we will discuss whether you should move during the holidays or not. By the time we’re done, you’ll know exactly whether it’s a good idea or not.

What is the Holiday Moving Season

The holiday moving season is a short but unique period for relocation. It usually runs from late November to early January, right when the year is winding down and most people are focused on holidays, school breaks, and travel.

This is also when many people start wondering, “Should you move during the holidays?”, because it can offer opportunities you don’t get at other times of the year.

Timeframe: Late November – Early January

• Late November: Moves often start after Thanksgiving. Some people use this time to settle into a new home before December events begin.
• December: Early December is quieter and can mean better rates. The week between Christmas and New Year’s is also popular for those taking an extended time off.
• Early January: Movers may still have open schedules, and rates can stay lower until mid-month.

How the Moving Market Changes

During the holiday season, demand for moving services drops compared to the busy summer months. This lower demand gives you discounts on moving trucks and reduced storage fees.

Fewer people are booking movers, which means more scheduling flexibility for you.

However, the housing market can feel different:

• Sellers may be more motivated to negotiate.
• Inventory is usually lower, so choices can be limited.

Regional and Weather Variations

Your experience depends heavily on where you live:

• Warmer climates (Florida, Texas, Arizona) have fewer holiday moving weather challenges and sometimes even higher moving activity during winter.
• Colder regions (Minnesota, upstate New York) may have snow and icy roads, making moving slower and requiring extra preparation.

In some warm-weather cities like Miami and Orlando, over 26% of annual moves happen during the winter months. In contrast, northern cities see fewer moves, but that can work in your favor if you want less competition for movers and better rates.

Key Factors to Consider When Moving During Holidays

The holiday season brings its own set of opportunities and challenges, and understanding them will help you plan better and avoid surprises.[/caption]

Cost and Savings Opportunities

One of the biggest advantages of a holiday move is the potential for saving costs. Demand for moving services is usually lower, which means you might find:

• Discounted rates on movers and rental trucks.
• Cheaper storage unit fees.
• Negotiable prices from landlords or sellers eager to close deals before year-end.

However, keep in mind that in some areas, demand can spike near the holidays, such as Christmas or New Year’s Day, because people use their holiday time off to relocate.

Weather Conditions

Holiday moving weather challenges can make a big difference in how smoothly your move goes.

• In colder regions, snow, ice, and shorter daylight hours can slow down the process.
• In warmer states, you avoid these problems, but the weather can still be unpredictable with rain or storms.

Scheduling and Availability

Even with lower demand, the holiday calendar can be tricky. Movers, real estate agents, and utility companies may have limited hours during late December. The flexibility of holidays when moving is a plus; you might be able to take time off from work without using as many vacation days.

Housing Market Dynamics

During the holiday season:

• There’s usually less competition from other buyers and renters.
• Sellers may be motivated to close quickly for tax or relocation reasons.
• Inventory is smaller, so you may have fewer options to choose from.

Personal and Family Commitments

The holidays are often filled with traditions, gatherings, and travel. A move during this time means balancing packing and logistics with holiday events. It can be a great way to start fresh in the New Year, but it can also feel rushed if you’re juggling too many commitments.

Pros and Cons of Moving During the Holidays

When someone wonders if moving during the holidays is a good idea, then let’s discuss the pros and cons of moving during the holidays.

Holiday Move Planning Timeline

If you’ve decided that moving during the holidays is the right choice, you need a clear plan that fits both the moving process and the busy holiday season.

4–6 Weeks Before

Your main focus here is booking and organizing.

• Research moving companies or rental trucks. Ask about holiday availability and off-season discounts for moving during the winter holidays for cost savings.
• Book your moving date. If possible, avoid December 24–26 and December 31–January 1, when both traffic and service closures peak.
• If selling or ending a lease, give notice or list your property.
• Take a full inventory of your belongings.
• Begin decluttering—donate clothes, toys, and household items you don’t need.
• Purchase packing supplies: boxes, tape, labels, bubble wrap, and moving blankets.

2–3 Weeks Before

This is the packing and confirming stage.

• Confirm booking details with your movers (arrival time, costs, holiday moving weather challengesplan).
• Start packing items you won’t use before the move—books, seasonal décor, extra linens, out-of-season clothing.
• Arrange utility transfers for your new home: electricity, water, internet, and heating.
• Update your address with USPS, banks, insurance companies, and subscription services.
• If applicable, request time off work for moving days.
• Check the long-range weather forecast and prepare any equipment you may need (snow shovel, ice melt, tarps).

1 Week Before

• Now you’re setting yourself up for a smooth moving day.
• Pack an essentials boxwith:
• Important documents (ID, passports, contracts)
• Toiletries and medications
• Basic tools (screwdrivers, scissors, flashlight)
• Chargers and electronics
• A few holiday decorations or gifts to keep the season alive
• Finish packing everyday non-essentials. Keep only what you’ll need for the last few days.
• Confirm addresses, phone numbers, and parking arrangements with movers.
• Arrange pet care for moving day.
• Double-check weather updates and adjust your timeline if a storm is forecasted.
  

Moving Day

Your goal here is to stay on schedule and safe.

• Wake up early to take advantage of daylight (especially important in winter).
• Clear driveways and sidewalks of snow/ice if applicable.
• Lay protective coverings on floors to avoid mud or water damage.
• Keep snacks, water, and warm drinks ready for yourself and movers.
• Do a final walkthrough of your old home to check for forgotten items.
• Carry valuables and important paperwork with you, not in the moving truck.

First 72 Hours After the Move

Your move is getting comfortable fast.

Day 1:

Unpack bedding, toiletries, and kitchen essentials.

• Set up heating or cooling systems so your home is comfortable.
• Install shower curtains, lightbulbs, and basic necessities.

Day 2:

Set up internet and TV service.

• Add holiday touches to make your new space feel festive.
• Start unpacking one high-priority room (like the kitchen or bedroom).

Day 3:

• Do a safety and maintenance check (smoke detectors, locks, windows).
• Walk through the neighborhood to get familiar with local stores and services.
• Take some time to rest—you’ve just handled one of the biggest pros and cons of moving during the holidays, challenges: balancing relocation with holiday life.
  

Budgeting Tips

The holiday season brings both potential savings and extra costs, and knowing where these come from can help you plan ahead.

Where Costs Increase in the Holiday Season

While moving during holidays, cost savings can be possible, but some expenses can actually rise:

• Peak holiday dates: Moving close to Christmas or the New Year can mean higher rates for movers who work on those days.
• Weather delays: Snow, ice, or storms can slow the process, adding labor hours and extra fees.
• Last-minute bookings: If you wait too long, you may end up paying a premium for the movers or truck you want.
• Holiday surcharges: Some companies charge extra for working during public holidays or outside normal business hours.

Where Savings Can Be Found

The good news is that the holiday season can also offer real savings.

• Lower moving demand: Fewer people move in winter compared to summer, so movers and truck rental companies often run discounts.
• Real estate opportunities: Sellers may be more motivated to negotiate during the slower winter market.
• Off-peak pricing: Early December and early January are usually cheaper than peak summer months.
• Storage deals: Many storage facilities offer winter promotions to fill empty units.

Cost-Control Strategies

You can stretch your budget further with these simple steps:

• Book early to lock in lower rates and avoid last-minute surcharges.
• Be flexible with your moving date. Shifting by a few days can make a big price difference.
• Avoid peak holiday dates when demand briefly spikes.
• Do some packing yourself to reduce labor costs—especially for non-fragile items.
• Compare multiple quotes from movers to find the best value.
• Bundle services when possible—some companies offer discounts if you combine moving and storage.
• Plan for the weather so you’re not paying extra for delays caused by poor preparation.
  

Movers vs. DIY Move During Holidays

When you’re deciding to move during the holidays, one of the biggest choices you’ll make is whether to hire professional movers or do it yourself.[/caption]

Both options have their own benefits and drawbacks, and the right choice depends on your budget and comfort level with handling the move.

Hiring Professional Movers

Pros:

Less physical stress:   Movers handle heavy lifting, loading, and unloading.

Time-saving: They can complete a move faster, leaving you more time for holiday events.

Weather experience: Professionals are prepared for holiday moving weather challenges—from snow to icy driveways.

Peace of mind: They bring equipment, protective materials, and know-how for fragile or valuable items.

Cons:

Higher cost: Hiring movers is generally more expensive, especially if moving close to Christmas or New Year, when holiday surcharges might apply.

Scheduling constraints: You need to book early to secure your preferred date.

Less flexibility: Once booked, changing dates can be costly or difficult.

DIY Holiday Move

Pros:

Lower upfront cost: Doing it yourself can help maximize moving cost savings.

Complete control: You set your own schedule and pace.

Flexible timing: Easier to adjust plans if weather causes delays.

Cons:

Physically demanding: Lifting and moving heavy items can be exhausting.

Weather risks: Without professional experience, navigating winter conditions can be harder.

Equipment and vehicle rental: You’ll need to rent a truck, dollies, and protective supplies.

Time-consuming: Balancing packing, loading, and driving with holiday obligations can be stressful.

Which Should You Choose?

• Go with professional movers if you value time, convenience, and want experts to handle possible holiday moving weather challenges.
• Opt for DIY if your budget is tight, you have help from friends or family, and you’re confident managing the logistics.
  

Packing Strategy for the Holidays

If you are moving during the holidays, having a smart packing plan will help you stay organized while keeping the festive spirit alive. The holiday season adds extra considerations like weather, celebrations, and limited time, so packing strategically is important.

Start Early and Declutter

Begin packing 4–6 weeks before moving day. Go room by room and donate or sell what you don’t need—this reduces the number of boxes and can contribute to holiday cost savings.

Keep a Holiday Essentials Box

Set aside a small box with holiday decorations, gifts, wrapping paper, and favorite seasonal items. This way, even if you’re surrounded by moving boxes, you can still enjoy the holidays in your new home.

Protect Against Weather

Winter moves can mean snow, rain, or icy conditions. Use waterproof covers for furniture, plastic bins for sensitive items, and double tape on boxes to handle holiday moving weather challenges.

Pack Seasonal and Everyday Items Wisely

If you’re moving close to Christmas or New Year, keep winter clothing, baking supplies, and any last-minute gifts accessible until the final few days before the move.

Label for Quick Unpacking

Mark each box with the room it belongs to and its contents. A clear labeling system saves time when you’re unpacking and settling in.

Prepare an “Arrival Box”

Include essentials like bedding, toiletries, snacks, chargers, and basic kitchenware. Keep it with you so you can get comfortable right away in your new home.

Recommended Resources

What Is the Cheapest Time of Year to Move Smartly?

The Hidden Moving Costs You Didn’t Expect

Essential Post-Move Cleaning Checklist for Your New Home

Eco-Friendly Packing: Everything You Need for a Green Move