With the approaching holidays, families are already decking the halls, planning festive holiday meals, and taking advantage of Black Friday discounts days before the turkey dinner is served. While Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker classics and “Sleigh Ride” invade radio stations across the country, some families are preparing for a move! Instead of visions of sugarplums, these families may be struggling with all of the challenges associated with a move! Never fear, here are five tips to help you move during the holidays with success:
#1 - Holiday Commitments & Timing
The holidays aren’t considered a peak moving season, so scheduling can be limited. Keep in mind that some operations slow down during the holidays, so you need to plan early to enlist a moving company. If you are planning a DIY move with friends and family, be mindful of their holiday commitments.
#2 - Inclement Travel Weather
We can’t control the weather, but we can certainly plan and prepare for it. Check the forecast before traveling and reschedule if roads are impassable. Remember, no one can drive on ice! To be prepared for a potential emergency, be sure to have your emergency kit ready and located in your vehicle.
#3 - Holiday Discounts & Savings Tips
‘Tis the season of giving! Research moving companies offering holiday discounts. Consider moving during the weekday versus the weekend to save a little cash. Also, consider cost-effective alternatives such as portable storage containers and rental trucks for your move. Another cost-saving tip is to use boxes found at beverage stores and use linens and towels as a protective wrap for fragile items while packing for your move.
#4 - Important Updates & Home Safety
A few tasks may fall through the cracks in the midst of a move, especially during the hectic holiday season. Be sure you have scheduled utilities, changed your address on important documents, and considered setting up a security system before moving into your new home. Remember, home invasions increase during the holiday season.
#5 - Destination Arrival
When packing up your essential items (i.e., toiletry items, linens, paper plates/cups/napkins, etc.) last at your old home, also pack a few holiday decorations as well. When you arrive at your new destination, you won’t have to scour through boxes looking for toilet paper, AND you can spread a little holiday cheer around your new home!
We know a move during the holidays can cause some additional stress. Consider these five tips to help ease any trepidation and make a holiday move merrier! If you are requiring some moving help this holiday season, give 1-800-PACK-RAT a call! We can assist you with whatever move, whether it is local or long-distance, you might be making, and can help you store your stuff if you need it as well. Go online or call us for a free quote today and see how 1-800-PACK-RAT can make moving and storage simple for you!