Lots of people ask if it is possible to move house over Christmas. For one reason or another, it is common for the moving period to line up with the Christmas holiday, which on the surface can seem like an extra source of stress. Some people may even question if it is possible to move at all on the Christmas holiday period as the bulk of businesses and companies shut down for a few days.
Moving House Over Christmas: Is It Actually Possible?
It is a common belief that the entire housing market shuts down from mid-December until January. While it is true that many solicitors and estate agents take a break, life does not stop. Tenancies end, new jobs start in the New Year, and some people use their time off work to get settled into a new place.
The short answer is: Yes, you can move house over Christmas and New Year. However, a winter move comes with specific logistical challenges, from short daylight hours to council office closures, that you are less likely to face in July. Here is how to navigate them.
Finding a Mover Who Is Open
The biggest source of stress is often just finding a company that is operating. Many traditional, large-scale removal firms shut down completely between Christmas Eve and the New Year, or run with very limited teams. Calling around individually can be frustrating and time consuming.
This is where using an aggregator platform like Find My Man and Van can save you hours. Instead of ringing multiple companies to hear voicemail messages, you enter your details once and receive quotes from independent removal company partners that have indicated they can cover your type of move.
Our intelligent matching system connects you with rated local man and van services and house removals so that you can compare prices, vehicle sizes, and reviews in one place. You then choose the option that suits your date and budget, rather than relying on whichever firm happens to pick up the phone.
The "Daylight Race"
The most overlooked factor in a Christmas move is daylight. In late December in the UK, the sun sets as early as 3:50 PM. This gives you a very short window of natural light to get the van loaded and unloaded.
Moving in the dark is slower and colder, and there is a higher risk of slipping or damaging items. To reduce those risks:
- Book the earliest slot you can: An 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM start time gives you the best chance of finishing in daylight.
- Be ready to go: If the removal team arrives and you are still packing boxes, you will almost certainly still be loading when it is dark.
- Check external lighting: If you are moving into a new property, take a torch or portable work light in case outside lights are not set up yet.
The Parking Permit Trap
This is a critical detail that catches people out every year. If you are moving to or from a city area, for example a London borough or a busy town centre, and you need a parking suspension for the van, you should act in early December.
Many Council parking departments operate with reduced staffing or full closures over the festive period. If you try to book a suspension on December 20th for a move on the 28th, you may find that the office is closed and your application is not processed in time. Check your local council's deadlines as early as possible and book your suspension well in advance.
Managing Costs and "Holiday Surcharges"
There is a perception that moving at Christmas always costs double. While some traditional firms charge significant premiums for holiday work, the independent market can be more competitive. Because our independent removal company partners set their own prices and schedules, you can often find options that are still good value, even around Bank Holidays.
We do not add a blanket "Christmas Tax" to quotes. The price you see is the rate for that specific partner based on your details, which allows you to compare options and choose a service that fits your budget.
Practical Preparation (The "Christmas Survival Kit")
If you are moving only a few days before Christmas, you may not have time to unpack everything before the celebrations start. To keep stress levels low, pack a "Christmas Survival Kit" that travels with you in your car, not in the back of the van.
This should include:
- A kettle, mugs, and tea or coffee to keep everyone warm.
- Phone chargers and any essential medication.
- Bedding and sleepwear for the first night.
- A few key Christmas decorations or gifts if you are celebrating immediately.
Our UK-based customer support team is open throughout the festive period, with the exception of Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day. If something unexpected happens on your moving day, you will usually still be able to reach us for help and guidance.
Final Thoughts
Moving during the festive season is absolutely possible if you respect the logistics. Roads can be quieter in the days between Christmas and New Year, and having time off work can make unpacking easier. The key is to secure your booking early, plan around the early sunset, and make sure any parking arrangements are in place before Council offices close.
Need to find a mover for the Christmas period? Instead of spending hours calling around, get quotes from rated independent removal company partners who are available for your move.
