5 Quick Tips for Moving During the Holidays
Moving is a stressful time and so are the holidays. When you have to combine the two and move during the holidays, you make both even more stressful. From the traffic to the weather to the countless number of stores that close during this time, moving during the holidays isn’t the easiest, but this guide will help you make the best of it.
1. Traffic
This is one of the worst part of the holidays. Who really wants to waste an extra hour just sitting in the car? To avoid this problem, choose to move during times when the traffic is minimal. Be an early bird or a night owl when you’re moving your belongings. Plan your moving to avoid rush hours You’re not going to want to take the parkway between 6 am and 8 am or 3 pm and 6 pm. Listen to some relaxing music while in the car, so you’re not too stressed if you do happen to get stuck trailing behind a long line of cars while hauling your valuables.
2. Weather
The weather isn’t always pleasant during the holidays. Road conditions can get pretty slick because of snow and ice. Watch the news to plan your moving ventures between snowstorms. If you have to complete moving tasks in poor weather conditions, try to go right after the heavy traffic hours. Since the plow trucks will be out the most during these busy times to prepare for the commuters, the roads are more likely to be clear of snow and ice. Make sure you always wear or bring a heavy jacket just in case you have car trouble.
3. Closed Businesses
Many business close or have shortened hours during the holiday season. You don’t want to go out to get moving boxes just drive 30 minutes and arrive at a building with no lights on and no cars in the parking lot. Make a moving checklist with all the places you need to visit and what you need to get there. Call these places ahead of time to inquire about when they’re opening and their hours of operation. Always have a backup plan too, so if one business shuts down early, have somewhere else you can go.
4. Unexpected Visitors
It’s not unusual for your family to stop in unexpectedly to visit during the holidays. Just because you’re moving, it doesn’t mean you can forget how to be a gracious host. Make sure you have snacks and beverages to offer just in case a guest surprises you. If you’ve already moved your refrigerator to your new location, leave a cooler with ice and beverages behind and some nonperishable hors d’oeuvres. Let everyone who might stop by know you’re in the process of moving. This way, they’ll know you’re busy, and they won’t be as likely to stop in unexpectedly; they may even offer to help.
5. General Stress
No matter how well you plan, you can expect some stress when moving around the holidays. At least 15 minutes of “me time” can really help reduce your anxiety. Take a long, relaxing bath at the end of a hard day. Read a book, exercise or do something that helps you take your mind off of everything. Don’t overexert yourself. If you can only move until 4 pm before you crash for the night, then feel free to call it quits at 4. Be sure to eat regularly. You need all the energy you can get during this time. Utilize your computer! Online shopping is great, especially since the Internet doesn’t shut down for the holidays! This will free you up to focus on moving. Don’t let the hustle and bustle of the holidays make your moving experience miserable. Take some time for yourself when you need it.
