More than 11 percent of the U.S. population move to a new home every year. Depending on the distance and size of the home, these transitions can be costly and complicated endeavors, requiring hired movers and moving trucks along with innumerable phone calls and coordination between your current and future destination. The process of moving can get even more complicated when it occurs during the holiday season. While it can be a convenient break in the schedule, particularly for families with kids in school, moving during the holidays requires extra planning and preparation. Here are some things to consider when preparing for a holiday move.
Keep track of the items you will need for the holidays
Moving typically requires preparation on your part to pack up your items, and a common mistake is to box everything up early and quickly to get it out of the way. But where did that heavy coat go? And what happened to the Christmas presents that were already wrapped? To ensure you keep track of seasonal items and have access to them throughout your move, Chipman Relocation recommends making a list of holiday-specific items that you will need to have on hand. You can then pack these items together in a specially marked box that is always accessible.
Inform everyone of your timetable and day-by-day plans
A holiday move requires some coordinating between your moving plans and your seasonal plans. It gets complicated quickly, and it can create the potential for confusion among any family and friends involved. For that reason, Examiner.com says it's best to create a schedule of your day-to-day activities, and to dispense them to the important parties on both sides. That way your moving company knows when you'll be home so they can get started loading up the truck, and your mother in-law knows when to expect you for the turkey dinner.
Find out when businesses and offices will be open
All businesses have their own policies and holidays hours, and these can range from a single day off to a string of days between Christmas and New Year's Day. Whether you're planning on touring homes, submitting applications or picking up keys, make sure you know when various offices and businesses will be open.
Contact the management companies listed on ForRent and other home listings websites to inquire about holiday availability and keep the lines of communication open.
Plan on delays
No matter how much planning and preparation you do, brace for the unexpected. Delays can come in many forms, so make sure you've accounted for extra time in your schedule so that your plans aren't derailed by one late arrival. Keep calm, stay organized and maintain that holiday cheer—you'll be in your new home in no time!