Year-End Moves: Why December Is One of the Best Months to Relocate (and How to Save Money Doing It)
Most People Avoid December Moves—And That’s a Good Thing
December might not be the first month most people think of when planning a move. Holiday events, family gatherings, and winter weather cause many to postpone. But for those who do choose December, the rewards are significant.
From lower demand to year-end tax considerations, December relocations can offer advantages you won’t find in busier months.
Lower Moving Demand = Better Scheduling
Unlike summer and fall, the moving industry typically sees a slowdown in December. This means:
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More flexibility in your scheduling
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Access to your preferred moving dates
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More availability of professional packers
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Shorter wait times on specialty services
Alliance Relocation Services often has greater availability in December, making it easier to book ideal dates—even during the holidays.
Potential Financial Benefits of Moving Before the New Year
A December move can also help financially:
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Some people can qualify for year-end tax deductions related to work relocations.
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You may finalize your move before new rent or mortgage rate increases go into effect.
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Families often save on utility transition fees by consolidating move-in dates before January.
Additionally, moving companies sometimes offer year-end incentives since it’s a slower season.
Holiday Sales Can Help Reduce Costs
Packing materials and home essentials often go on sale during December:
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Storage bins
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Organization systems
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Tools
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Holiday sales on supplies and home goods
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Furniture discounts that help furnish a new home affordably
Taking advantage of seasonal deals helps reduce your overall moving cost.
It’s the Perfect Time to Declutter
People naturally declutter at year-end, especially during holiday cleaning. This means smaller loads, reduced moving time, and lower costs.
Decluttering before your December move:
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Saves money
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Speeds up packing
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Reduces storage needs
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Makes unpacking easier
Smoother School Transitions for Families
For families with children, December moves offer a unique benefit: students can start fresh after winter break.
They avoid:
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Mid-semester disruptions
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Stress from changing schools suddenly
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Missing important instruction
Winter break creates a natural transition point.
Work Availability Is Often More Flexible
Some employers offer extended breaks or reduced workloads during December. This gives you:
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More time to organize
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Fewer days taken off
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A smoother transition into the new year
Save by Hiring Professional Packers Early
While December is less busy, holiday weeks can still fill up quickly. Booking professional packers early:
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Locks in rates
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Ensures availability
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Gives you more time to prepare for the actual move
Alliance Relocation Services offers custom packing tailored to your timeline, which is especially valuable during the hectic holiday season.
Start the New Year Fresh
A December move symbolizes a fresh start. You get to begin the new year in a new location, free from lingering tasks or clutter.
And best of all? You head into January settled, organized, and ready for a positive new chapter.