Essential tips for a smooth and stress-free move this Christmas

Moving home at Christmas comes with its own set of challenges, but with careful planning, it can be a manageable process. This guide offers practical Christmas moving tips to help you navigate the holiday season efficiently and ensure a stress-free move. 

1. Plan early to beat the seasonal rush 

How soon before moving should I start packing?

We advise you to start packing 4-6 weeks before your move. Early preparation allows the time to organise your belongings and focus on other holiday commitments.

• Declutter efficiently: Take the opportunity to sort through your possessions. Donate or sell items you no longer need to reduce what you need to pack.
• Organise packing: Label boxes clearly, especially for items you'll need during the holiday season. Keep essentials like decorations and gifts easily accessible. 

2. Book your removal company early

How early should you book a moving company?

During the holiday season, moving companies often experience increased demand. To secure your preferred date, book your move at least 6-8 weeks in advance. 

That said, your ability to book your move may also depend on your completion date. Completion dates - the day the sale of your home is finalised, and you gain access to your new property - can be challenging to confirm during the Christmas period. Many solicitors and estate agents may have reduced hours or holiday closures, potentially causing delays in finalising paperwork. 

As soon as you have a confirmed completion date, notify your moving company. This allows them to accommodate your schedule and allocate the necessary resources. It's also worth discussing flexible arrangements with your removal company in case of unexpected changes, which are more common at this busy time of year. 

By planning ahead and keeping your moving company informed, you can avoid unnecessary complications and ensure a smoother process, even at Christmas. 

3. Prepare for winter weather

Winter weather can pose challenges, so it's important to be prepared:

• Use waterproof materials to protect items from rain or snow.
• Clear walkways at both properties to ensure safety during loading and unloading.
• Monitor weather forecasts and communicate with your movers about any potential changes.

4. Manage utilities and notifications 

Arrange for utilities to be connected in your new home before move day. Notify service providers, banks and subscriptions of your address change to avoid disruptions. 

5. Use storage solutions if needed

If you new home isn't ready or space is limited, temporary storage can be a practical solution. It allows you to move essentials first and gives you flexibility during the Christmas period. 

International moves at Christmas

Moving overseas during this time of year adds extra considerations:

• Account for shipping times: Delays are more likely during the holidays, so send items early to ensure they arrive on time.
• Organise customs paperwork: Accurate documentation can help avoid unnecessary delays at borders.
• Pack carefully: Securely wrap fragile items, especially decorations or sentimental belongings you may want to use immediately. 

Frequently asked questions

What should I prioritise on moving day?

Focus on unpacking essentials such as bedding, kitchenware and important documents. If you are celebrating Christmas, ensure your decorations and gifts are easily accessible. 

What happens if my move gets delayed over Christmas?

Delays can happen, especially during this time of the year. Communicate with your moving company about backup plans and ensure you've packed an essentials kit with clothes, toiletries and your Christmas necessities in case your belongings take longer to arrive.

Should I decorate my house for Christmas before moving?

If your move is close to Christmas, it's best to keep decorations simple or wait until you've arrived at your new home. Pack these items so they're easily accessible when you're ready to decorate. 

How can I stay organised while moving during Christmas?

Creating a moving checklist that includes packing schedules, important contacts and a timeline for key tasks. Staying organised will help you manage both your move and holiday commitment efficiently.  

Are moving costs higher during the Christmas season?

Costs may vary depending on demand, but booking early and choosing a reputable moving company can help you get the best service. Additionally, factor in potential holiday surcharges or changes in availability.

Simplifying your Christmas move with Pickfords

If you're planning a move at Christmas, professional moving services can provide support to ensure a seamless process.

How can Pickfords assist

Pickfords offers tailored removal and storage solutions to meet your needs:

• Domestic and international moves: Expertise in both local and overseas removals, ensuring safe delivery of your belongings.
• Short and long-term storage: Secure facilities to store items temporarily or for extended periods.
• Packing services: Professional packing to save time and protect your belongings.

Contact us today to plan your move this Christmas and enjoy a smooth transition to your new home.