7 Tips for Moving House at Christmas Time

Moving house requires careful planning and organisation, and this is especially true for house moves before Christmas. With the holiday season approaching and it being one of the busiest times of the year, it’s essential to approach your house move with some added preparation.

Here are seven practical tips to ensure a smoother, less stressful move during the Christmas season.

1. Confirm your moving date early

Christmas is a busy time for everyone, and moving companies are no exception. If you plan to relocate around the holiday season, it’s crucial to confirm your moving date as soon as possible.

Removalists often experience high demand during this time, and availability may be limited the closer you get to Christmas. Locking in your moving date early also gives you peace of mind, knowing you’ve secured a reliable removalist. The same applies if you’re considering asking for help from your mates.

2. Start packing as early as possible

Packing always takes longer than expected, and this is particularly true when you’re juggling holiday activities like shopping and family events. Ideally, you should begin packing two months before your move. However, if time is tight, consider hiring professional packing services to help you out. This frees you up to focus on more enjoyable aspects of the season.

Another tip is to label boxes clearly and keep Christmas-related items easily accessible, so you can quickly unpack them once you arrive at your new home.

3. Declutter and donate before the holidays

Moving house presents the perfect opportunity to declutter. With Christmas around the corner, this is an ideal time to donate unused items to op-shops or sell belongings you no longer need. Reducing the amount of stuff you need to pack and move not only simplifies the process but also allows you to give back to those in need during the holiday season.

4. Decide where you’re spending Christmas

Before finalising your moving plans, think about where you’d like to spend Christmas Day. If you’re hoping to celebrate in your new home, be mindful of when your furniture and belongings will arrive.

If your move is cutting close to Christmas, consider arranging delivery dates carefully to avoid delays. You may also consider packing a box of essentials that includes festive decorations, tableware, and anything you need for a relaxed Christmas meal in your new home.

5. Be mindful of holiday service schedules

The holiday season often sees a reduction in available services, especially from utility companies. Many providers scale back their operations during this period, so it’s important to organise disconnections and reconnections well in advance. This includes electricity, gas, water, and internet services at both your old and new homes.

6. Prepare for the summer heat

Moving in December means contending with the summer heat. To avoid exhaustion or heat-related issues, aim to move during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning.

Stay hydrated and wear comfortable, light clothing. Have portable fans or chilled water on hand to combat the heat while packing and moving.

7. Keep the festive spirit alive

Amidst the chaos of moving, don’t forget to maintain some holiday spirit. Even if your move happens right before Christmas, try to embrace the season in small, simple ways. Set aside some decorations to quickly brighten up your new home, or plan a low-key Christmas celebration with close family or friends. This way, you can still enjoy the holiday season without letting the move overshadow it.

By following these tips, you can make moving during the Christmas season less stressful and more manageable. While it may require extra planning and effort, the result will be a smooth move and a joyful start to life in your new home – just in time for the holidays.

For more moving guides and tips, check out our moving hints and moving blogs.

Featured image by Brett Sayles