Moving House Over Christmas: Is It Actually Possible?

It’s a common belief that everything shuts down from mid-December until January. While many solicitors and estate agents take a break, life doesn’t stop. Tenancies end, new jobs start in the New Year, and plenty of people use time off work to get settled into a new place.

The short answer is: yes, you can move over Christmas and New Year. The trade-off is a winter move comes with specific logistical challenges — short daylight hours, limited council services, and reduced availability — that you’re less likely to face in summer. Here’s how to navigate them.

Finding Transport That’s Operating

The biggest source of stress is often availability. Many larger firms reduce capacity between Christmas Eve and early January, and calling around individually can be time-consuming.

A simple way to save time is to use a platform that lets you review available options in one place — so you can review timings, vehicle sizes, and reviews without relying on whichever company happens to answer the phone.

The “Daylight Race”

The most overlooked factor in a Christmas move is daylight. In late December in the UK, the sun can set before 4pm, leaving a short window of natural light for loading and unloading.

To reduce risk and keep things moving:

• Book the earliest slot you can: an 8:00am or 9:00am start gives you the optimal chance of finishing in daylight.
• Be ready to go: if the driver arrives and you’re still packing, the job will likely run into darkness.
• Bring lighting: take a torch or portable work light in case external lights aren’t set up at the new place.

The Parking Permit Trap

If you’re moving in a busy area (for example, a London borough or a town centre) and need a parking suspension or permit for a loading bay, act early — ideally in the first half of December.

Many council departments operate with reduced staffing or closures over the festive period. If you apply late, your request may not be processed in time. Check local deadlines and book any permits well in advance.

Managing Costs Around the Holidays

There’s a perception that moving at Christmas always costs far more. Some providers do charge premiums for bank holidays, but pricing can vary widely depending on availability, route, and how flexible you can be.

The most effective approach is to review options early, consider slightly quieter days, and confirm what’s included so you’re not surprised by add-ons for access or delays.

Practical Preparation: Your “Christmas Survival Kit”

If you’re moving only a few days before Christmas, you may not have time to unpack everything before the celebrations start. Pack a small “survival kit” that stays with you (not in the back of the van).

Include:

• A kettle, mugs, and tea/coffee
• Phone chargers and any essential medication
• Bedding and sleepwear for the first night
• A few key decorations or gifts if you’re celebrating immediately