The holiday season is already a busy time for most of us, filled with events, family gatherings, and year-end tasks. If you’re planning a move during this festive period, you might feel overwhelmed by the additional stress of organising and relocating. But with the right approach, you can successfully manage a holiday move without sacrificing the joy of the season.

In this article, we’ll guide you through key steps to make your holiday move smooth and stress-free, including why it’s crucial to book your movers early, how to create an effective timeline, and the benefits of decluttering before the rush begins.

  1. Book Your Movers Early

One of the most important steps to planning a successful holiday move is booking your movers well in advance. The holiday season is a peak time for removals, and many people plan to move between Christmas and New Year. With fewer business days and high demand, moving companies can quickly become fully booked. Securing your moving date early ensures you can choose a time that fits your schedule rather than settling for whatever is available last minute.

Why early booking matters:

  • Availability: Moving companies, like Doree Bonner, often have limited slots during the holidays. Booking early ensures you’re not left scrambling for a mover.
  • Flexibility: Early booking gives you more options to choose the best moving date, which can be essential if you’re coordinating around holiday events.
  • Peace of mind: With your movers secured, you can focus on other holiday tasks and enjoy the season without the stress of last-minute arrangements.
  1. Create a Moving Timeline

Moving over the holidays comes with unique time pressures, but creating a detailed moving timeline can help you stay on track and minimise stress. A well-organised plan will allow you to juggle holiday obligations with moving responsibilities, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.

How to build a moving timeline:

  • Start with your moving date: Work backwards from your moving day and break down your tasks into weekly milestones. Include deadlines for packing, notifying utilities, and changing addresses.
  • Schedule key holiday events: Mark any important holiday gatherings or commitments on your timeline. This ensures you don’t plan major moving tasks on days you’re busy celebrating or visiting family.
  • Set specific tasks for each week: In the weeks leading up to your move, assign yourself manageable tasks like packing one room at a time, arranging for movers, or gathering packing supplies. This helps avoid the dreaded last-minute rush.

Example timeline for a holiday move:

  • 4 weeks before: Begin decluttering (more on that below), book your moving company, and start gathering packing materials.
  • 3 weeks before: Pack non-essential items like books, seasonal clothing, and decor. Notify utility companies and service providers of your move.
  • 2 weeks before: Confirm all arrangements with your moving company, finish packing most items, and begin disassembling large furniture.
  • 1 week before: Pack essentials, label boxes, and confirm final details for moving day.
  1. Declutter Before the Festive Rush

The holiday season is the perfect time to declutter your home before you move. Decluttering not only reduces the amount of stuff you have to pack and transport, but it can also help you feel more organised and in control of your moving process. Plus, it frees up space in your new home for any gifts or purchases you’ll make during the holidays!

How to approach decluttering:

  • Start early: Don’t wait until the last minute to begin decluttering. The earlier you start, the less rushed you’ll feel.
  • Room-by-room approach: Go through each room and identify items you no longer need or use. Separate them into piles to donate, sell, or recycle.
  • Think seasonally: If you have holiday decorations you no longer use or extra winter clothing, consider donating these to local charities before you move.
  • Set realistic goals: The goal is to simplify your move, not get bogged down in perfection. Focus on reducing excess rather than decluttering every single item.
  1. Prepare for Holiday Logistics

Don’t forget that moving over the holidays might come with additional logistical challenges. Weather, traffic, and shorter business hours can all impact your plans. Take these factors into account as you finalise the details of your move.

Considerations for holiday moves:

  • Weather: Depending on where you live, winter weather could play a role in your move. Make sure to monitor the forecast and have backup plans in case of snow or ice.
  • Holiday traffic: Roads may be busier than usual around Christmas and New Year’s. Be sure to plan extra travel time on moving day.
  • Business hours: Keep in mind that many businesses and services have reduced hours or close entirely around the holidays. Be sure to complete necessary errands well in advance.

How Doree Bonner Can Help

At Doree Bonner International, we understand that moving over the holidays can add extra layers of complexity. Our expert team is here to help you navigate every aspect of your holiday move, from packing services and secure storage to international relocations. With decades of experience and a reputation for excellence, we take the stress out of moving so you can focus on enjoying the season.

Whether you’re moving locally or internationally, Doree Bonner offers flexible, reliable services to fit your schedule—even during the busy holiday period. We can help with decluttering tips, timely packing, and ensuring that your belongings are transported safely, no matter the weather.

Get in Touch

Ready to plan your holiday move? Contact Doree Bonner International today for a free, no-obligation quote, and let us take care of the heavy lifting while you enjoy the holidays.