Moving at any time of the year can be a challenge, but moving over the holidays can seem especially complicated. With all of the organizing, planning, packing, loading, and everything else that goes into relocation, executing a smooth, seamless moving experience while sailing gracefully through the social obligations of “most wonderful time of the year” can seem nothing short of impossible. For this reason, many homeowners decide to hold off moving until after the season is over.

The truth is that moving over the holiday season does pose several unique challenges that you wouldn’t encounter during other times of the year. At the same time, however, holiday relocations offer plenty of benefits, too—and planning a successful move at the end of the year can be just as easy to pull off as it would during any other season.

At Move-Pro, we’re excited for the start of the holiday season to begin. In fact, we can’t wait to spread some of our holiday cheer while helping our customers enjoy relaxing and worry-free moves. If you’ve been putting off a holiday move or are looking for tips to make yours a little easier, take a look at some of our favorite moving hacks from our expert Bay Area movers to make the whole process run smoothly.

We Need a Little Planning, Right This Very Minute

Organization is the key to the success of any move. Whether you are moving during the holidays or at any other time of the year, planning is extremely important, and it’s best to do it as far in advance as possible. This is especially true for the holiday season, as people can get extremely busy with social obligations and begin to procrastinate moving tasks.

A dedicated moving calendar can help you to carefully and thoroughly plan out every step of your move. In general, it’s suggested that those moving begin the process at least two months in advance by contacting a top-rated San Jose moving company like Move-Pros as soon as you can. While moving companies are usually not too busy at the end of the year, booking early is important to lock in the dates you want without a problem.

Additionally, a reputable moving company will help you to strategize and plan out your move with a detailed moving calendar and timeline. For example, our professional movers at Move-Pros will meet with you in your home to deliver a cost estimate for your personalized moving plan, free of charge and without obligation, so that you can properly plan and budget your move in advance.

Make a List, and Check it Twice

Speaking of the budget, make sure to carefully calculate your expenses—especially over the holiday season. Between gifts, excursions, holiday dinners, last-minute take-out orders, and everything else in between, the holiday bill can add up quickly.

Make a list of all your expenses, such as the payment for your moving and storage provider, documents and permits that you might need to obtain, packing materials, and other necessary expenses.

There are different ways to save a few bucks such as recycling boxes and old magazines or newspapers for your packing. However, what you should never do is hire Bay Area movers for a surprisingly low rate in exchange for mediocre services. In most cases, people wind up spending more money in the long-run when hiring unqualified movers to relocate or losing money to damaged, misplaced, or stolen belongings. You must also make sure that the moving company you choose provides transparent price lists, personalized moving quotes, and is fully insured.

Packing Around the Christmas Tree

When moving right before Christmas Eve, it is recommended to unpack only the most important household items so you will still have the time to prepare for your Christmas dinner. So when you’re packing for your move, strategize and pack such items separately from the things that you won’t unpack until the holidays are over.

You might also want to separate holiday decorations, holiday clothes, gifts, and gift wrapping materials from your household items. Clearly label the boxes so that you know which ones to open first when it’s time to unpack and settle in your new home.

To make the moving process really easy, hire professional movers to pack and unpack everything for you. This can be a really stress-free way to enjoy the holidays and the comfort of an unpacked, no-hassle home to relax in and enjoy the rest of the winter vacation in.

Moving Through a White Christmas

The last thing that you want to experience is getting in an accident or getting stranded somewhere during the holidays. Be sure to stay updated about storms, blizzards, and other announcements about harsh weather conditions around your moving dates. Don’t risk moving under extreme weather conditions to avoid potential accidents and inconveniences. Also, make sure that you drive carefully in icy roads to get to your new home safe and sound.

Keep the Holiday Spirit Alive

Although moving can be an exhausting activity, don’t let this dampen your holiday spirit. You can play Christmas songs while you’re packing your things and in the car while you’re moving to your new home. When you get to your new home, you can also put up a few holiday decorations to establish a festive atmosphere.

Take Time to Relax

No matter how busy you are or how demanding the preparation for the move can get, take the time to relax and bond with your family. Bake your kids’ favorite holiday brownies or cookies, watch holiday movies with the whole family, or if you’re too tired, take a break by going to a nice restaurant in your new location.

Are you looking for a trusted moving and storage company that you can rely on during the holidays? Contact Move-Pros today to speak with our San Jose moving company regarding our affordable and efficient moving solutions for your relocation this season, or fill out this online form to book a free in-home estimate.