From Thanksgiving through New Year’s, the holiday season in Minneapolis, MN, brings family gatherings, travel, and cold weather. It’s also a common time to relocate, whether for a new job, a lease ending December 31, or a home purchase closing before year-end. A household move during the holidays takes some extra planning, but it can go smoothly. Here are practical tips to help you get it done.
1. Book Your Movers Early
Demand for movers rises from mid-November through December as people try to relocate before the new year. Crews also schedule time off around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. Book four to six weeks ahead if you can. Dates right before Thanksgiving and at the end of December fill up first, while midweek dates in early December are often easier to get.
2. Plan for Winter Weather
Snow and subzero temperatures can show up any time from November on. Check the forecast in the days before your move and have a backup date in mind. If Minneapolis, MN, declares a snow emergency, street parking rules change, so confirm where the truck can legally park at both homes. With sunset around 4:30 p.m. in December, an early start also helps you finish in daylight.
3. Clear a Safe Path
Shovel and salt sidewalks, driveways, and steps the day before and again the morning of the move. Ask the seller, landlord, or property manager to do the same at your new address. Clear, dry walkways make the move safer and faster, which can also lower your costs.
4. Protect Your Floors and Belongings
Snow and salt get tracked indoors quickly. Put down floor runners, cardboard, or old rugs at each entrance. Cold can also damage electronics, houseplants, paint, and some liquids, so move those in a heated car when possible. Let electronics reach room temperature before plugging them in.
5. Pack Seasonal Items First
Decorations, extra serving dishes, and the roasting pan you only use on Thanksgiving can all be packed early. If you plan to host a holiday meal, decide ahead of time whether it will happen in your old home or your new one. Keep what you need for it in a separate, clearly labeled box.
6. Work Around Holiday Travel
The Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the days around Christmas and New Year’s bring heavy traffic on I-94, I-35W, and roads near shopping areas. A weekday morning move usually means less time on the road. If your family is traveling for the holidays, avoid scheduling the move right before or after a trip.
7. Set Up Utilities Ahead of Time
Contact your electric and gas providers (Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy in Minneapolis, MN) at least two weeks before your move so the power and heat are on when you arrive. Check with your new city about water, sewer, and trash service. Schedule internet installation early, since appointments can be harder to get late in the year.
8. Plan for Kids, Pets, and the First Night
Moving day goes more smoothly when kids and pets are out of the way, so arrange help from a friend, family member, or sitter. Pack a bag that rides with you, with water, snacks, medications, and phone chargers. Label one box “Essentials Kit” with sheets, towels, and a few basic dishes.
Get Help With Your Holiday Move
Moving between Thanksgiving and New Year’s takes extra planning, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Whether you’re moving across town, to another Twin Cities suburb, or out of state, our crews handle local and long-distance moves in all kinds of winter weather. We’ll pad and wrap your furniture, load and transport it safely, and get you settled at your new home so you can focus on the holidays. Ready to book your holiday move? Contact Metcalf Moving & Storage or request your free quote online today. Holiday dates fill up quickly, so reach out soon.