Moving during the Christmas season might seem unusual, but for many Canadians, it can be a wise decision if planned carefully.
With winter weather, holiday closures, and family gatherings, a December move presents its challenges.
However, it also offers unique benefits: lower demand, potential cost savings, and an opportunity to start fresh in the new year.
Before making a decision, it’s essential to consider what makes a Christmas move practical and what could cause stress.
Top 5 Advantages and Disadvantages of Moving During the Christmas Holiday
Moving during the Christmas season isn’t typical, but it can be practical for some Canadians.
December is quieter for moving companies, yet winter weather and holiday schedules can make the process more complicated.
Understanding the advantages and challenges can help you decide whether a Christmas move fits your timing, budget, and comfort level.
Pros of Moving During Christmas
1. Lower Demand and Better Scheduling Flexibility
December is one of the slowest months for moving companies in Canada because most people prefer to avoid winter relocations.
This reduced demand often gives you more control over your timeline.
Movers tend to have more open availability, which means you’re more likely to secure your preferred moving date, even on shorter notice.
Flexible scheduling also helps reduce stress, especially if you are juggling holiday plans while preparing to relocate.
When movers aren’t rushed between jobs, the entire process tends to be more efficient from start to finish.
2. Potentially Lower Moving Costs
A holiday-season move can be financially strategic.
Since fewer people book moves in late December, rates may be more competitive.
Some moving companies offer seasonal promotions, discounted weekday pricing, or incentives to fill their calendars.
Truck rentals and storage units may also be cheaper during this off-peak period.
While holiday premiums can apply on specific dates, the overall pricing environment is typically more favourable than during the summer peak season or early fall, when moving rates are at their highest in Canada.
3. More Personal Time to Prepare and Settle In
Many Canadians already take time off work during the holiday season, giving you more breathing room to organize your move.
Instead of packing after long workdays or coordinating logistics around meetings and deadlines, you can devote focused time to decluttering, packing, meeting movers, and settling in.
This added flexibility can significantly reduce stress and make the entire moving experience feel more manageable.
It also allows you to unpack sooner and enjoy your new home before the new year begins.
4. A Meaningful Fresh Start for the New Year
For some, moving during the holiday season aligns with the emotional desire for a reset.
There’s something symbolic about closing out the year in one home and starting the next in another.
Settling into your space during a quieter time of year can help you begin January with renewed energy and clarity.
Decorating your new home for the holidays, even in small ways, can also create a sense of warmth that eases the transition.
5. Easier Negotiation for Added Services
When moving companies have lighter schedules, there is often more room to request accommodations such as flexible delivery windows, packing assistance, furniture assembly and disassembly, or additional labour.
While not guaranteed, movers may be more willing to customize services or provide added support when they are not managing a high volume of clients.
This can significantly enhance your moving experience, especially when winter conditions require extra care.
Cons of Moving During Christmas
1. Winter Weather Creates Unpredictable Delays
Canadian winters can be harsh, especially in late December.
Snowstorms, freezing rain, icy driveways, and limited daylight all introduce logistical challenges.
Moving in bad weather means roads might be slippery, travel times might increase, and moving crews may need to slow down to operate safely.
These conditions can cause unexpected delays or require additional preparation, such as salting pathways, clearing snow, or protecting belongings against moisture.
Weather-related delays are one of the most significant risks of a Christmas move.
2. Reduced Staff and Limited Mover Availability
Even though demand is lower, many moving companies operate with smaller teams during the holidays.
Staff members may take vacation time, which can reduce capacity on certain days.
This means you may need to avoid specific dates such as Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day, when service may be unavailable or limited.
If a mover overbooks during this period with fewer staff members, the risk of delays or rescheduling increases.
Booking early remains vital, even during the slow season.
3. Utility Setups Can Be Harder to Coordinate
Many utility providers, including hydro, gas, Internet, and cable companies, operate on reduced hours during Christmas week.
This can make it challenging to schedule timely disconnections or installations.
If you don’t plan, you may arrive at your new home without heating, hot water, or Internet access.
Holiday closures also affect municipal services, condo management offices, and building maintenance, potentially delaying key handovers or elevator bookings.
Early coordination is essential to avoid disruptions.
4. Packing Supplies May Be Scarcer or Priced Higher
The holiday season can affect the availability of moving supplies.
Retailers may have limited inventory as year-end stock levels run low, and certain packing materials can be more expensive during December.
Shipping delays are also common due to the surge in holiday deliveries.
Relying solely on last-minute supply purchases can leave you scrambling.
It’s better to gather boxes, tape, protective wraps, and bins early — even repurposing delivery boxes from your holiday shopping if needed.
5. Holiday Traditions and Family Plans Can Be Disrupted
Moving at Christmas often means sacrificing part of the holiday season.
Instead of relaxing, attending gatherings, or enjoying traditions, you may find yourself packing, cleaning, coordinating movers, or adjusting to a new home.
This shift can feel emotionally taxing, especially for families with children who look forward to holiday routines.
Even when planned well, a Christmas move may require you to celebrate more simply, postpone certain activities, or adapt traditions to fit your new timeline.
| Factors | Why It Matters at Christmas Time | Planning Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Cost / Pricing | Potential discounts, though holiday pay or surcharges may apply | Ask movers about seasonal rates and holiday premiums early. |
| Availability of Movers | Lower demand, but smaller crews | Book 6–8 weeks in advance to secure reliable movers. |
| Weather Risk | Snow, ice, and limited daylight can slow things down | Monitor forecasts, and build buffer time into your schedule. |
| Utility Setup | Providers may have limited hours or holiday closures | Schedule connection ahead of time — ideally a day before move-in. |
| Packing Supplies | Supplies may sell out or cost more | Start collecting boxes early, including reusing holiday delivery boxes. |
| Emotional / Family Impact | Moving can disrupt holiday traditions | Create an “open-first” box with decorations or special items to keep the holiday spirit alive. |
Wrapping Up
Moving at Christmas isn’t the right choice for everyone. With the proper planning, it can bring meaningful benefits, from lower costs and easier scheduling to the excitement of starting fresh as the new year approaches.
But the drawbacks are just as significant.
Winter weather can disrupt timelines, and holiday closures often complicate coordination with utilities or service providers.
If you’re flexible and comfortable handling a few extra logistics, a Christmas move can be a practical and even rewarding way to close out the year.
However, if you’re aiming for a low-stress holiday season or have tight scheduling needs, postponing the move until after the new year might make things much smoother.
FAQs
1. Is it cheaper to move during Christmas in Canada?
Yes, because demand for movers is generally lower in December, you may find more competitive rates. However, holiday premiums or overtime charges could apply, so always request a detailed quote.
2. How far in advance should I book movers for a Christmas move?
It’s wise to start booking a move about 2-3 months in advance. Although the season is slower than summer, many crews scale back for the holidays, so early booking ensures better availability.
3. What should I do about utilities when moving in winter?
Schedule utility disconnections at your old place and reconnections at your new home well in advance. Utility providers often have reduced staff or limited hours around the holidays.
4. How do I protect my belongings in winter weather?
Use waterproof plastic bins or well-sealed boxes, pack delicate items carefully, and consider weather-resistant padding materials. Keep an eye on the forecast, and be ready for delays.
5. How can I preserve holiday cheer when everything is packed?
Prepare a small “first-night” or “holiday box” with essential decorations, some festive items, and a few comforts. That way, even if other things are still in boxes, you can create a little festive corner in your new home.
