Do Movers Work on Holidays? Everything You Need to Know About Holiday Moving

Moving is stressful enough on a regular weekday. But what happens if your move falls on a holiday? Many homeowners and renters ask, do movers work on holidays, especially around major dates like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Day.

At Affinity Moving, we understand that life does not always align with a standard Monday through Friday schedule. Lease deadlines, job relocations, and home closings can fall on holidays. In this guide, we will explain whether moving companies work on holidays, what to expect during holiday moving, and how to prepare if your movers are scheduled during a holiday.

Do Movers Work on Holidays?

The short answer is: sometimes, yes.

Whether movers work on holidays depends on:

• The moving company’s policies
• The specific holiday
• Local demand
• Staff availability
• Advance scheduling

Some moving companies operate year-round, including certain holidays, while others close on major national holidays.

At Affinity Moving, availability during holidays depends on scheduling and advance notice. It is always best to call ahead and confirm.

Do Moving Companies Work on Holidays?

Many people specifically search, do moving companies work on holidays, because they assume all movers are closed.

Here is what typically happens:

Major Holidays

Most moving companies close or operate with limited availability on:

• Christmas Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• New Year’s Day
• Independence Day

Minor Holidays

Some movers remain open on:

• Labor Day
• Memorial Day
• Columbus Day
• Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• Veterans Day

Each company has different policies. If you need holiday movers, always confirm in advance.

Do Movers Work on Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is one of the most common holidays people ask about.

In most cases, moving companies do not schedule standard moves on Thanksgiving Day. However:

• Moves may be available the day before or after
• Emergency or special circumstance moves may be accommodated
• Some movers operate with limited crews

If you must move around Thanksgiving, schedule as early as possible.

Holiday moving during Thanksgiving week can also affect traffic patterns and building availability, especially in apartment complexes.

Why Do People Move on Holidays?

While holiday moving may not seem ideal, it happens more often than you might think.

Common reasons include:

• Lease ending on a fixed date
• Home closing scheduled before year-end
• Job relocation deadlines
• School calendar transitions
• Military relocation orders
• Personal emergencies

Sometimes moving on or near a holiday is unavoidable.

Pros and Cons of Holiday Moving

Before scheduling holiday movers, consider the advantages and disadvantages.

Pros of Moving on a Holiday

• Potentially lighter weekday traffic
• Time off work for some family members
• Easier scheduling for helpers
• Opportunity to start fresh in the new year

Cons of Holiday Moving

• Limited mover availability
• Possible holiday rate adjustments
• Family plans disrupted
• Storage facilities or offices may be closed
• Increased stress during busy seasons

Understanding both sides helps you plan realistically.

What to Do When Movers Are Working on a Holiday

If you are scheduled for a holiday move, preparation is key. Many customers ask, what to do when movers are working during special dates.

Here are important tips:

1. Confirm Details Early

Call your moving company several days before the holiday to:

• Confirm crew arrival time
• Review payment methods
• Double-check addresses
• Verify building access

Holiday schedules can affect availability and timing.

2. Prepare Everything in Advance

Do not leave packing for the last minute. On holidays:

• Hardware stores may be closed
• Storage offices may not be open
• Building managers may be unavailable

Complete packing at least one day prior to the move.

3. Check Building and Elevator Access

If you are moving into or out of an apartment:

• Confirm elevator reservations
• Verify loading dock access
• Confirm office hours

Some buildings close administrative offices on holidays.

4. Be Ready When Movers Arrive

Holiday moving requires efficiency. Make sure:

• Pathways are clear
• Boxes are sealed and labeled
• Furniture is disassembled if needed
• Children and pets are secured

Prepared customers make holiday moving smoother for everyone.

5. Consider Tipping and Appreciation

If your movers are working on a major holiday, showing appreciation is always thoughtful.

While tipping is optional, many customers choose to tip movers, especially on holidays. Offering water or snacks is also appreciated.

Are Holiday Moves More Expensive?

Holiday moving may involve:

• Limited availability
• Overtime pay for crews
• Increased demand around peak seasons

Some moving companies apply holiday surcharges, while others do not.

Always request a written estimate and clarify pricing in advance.

Affinity Moving believes in transparent pricing and will discuss all scheduling details upfront.

Planning a Holiday Move the Smart Way

If you must move during a holiday period, follow this timeline:

4 to 6 Weeks Before

• Contact moving companies
• Confirm holiday availability
• Request written estimates

2 Weeks Before

• Begin packing non-essential items
• Confirm building access
• Arrange childcare or pet care

1 Week Before

• Confirm mover schedule
• Finish packing
• Prepare essentials bag

Day Before

• Clear pathways
• Disassemble furniture if needed
• Confirm contact information

Preparation reduces stress.

Is Holiday Moving a Good Idea?

Whether holiday moving is right for you depends on your situation.

If flexibility is possible, moving one or two days before or after a major holiday may be easier.

However, if timing is fixed, experienced movers can still make the process smooth.

Professional holiday movers understand:

• Time constraints
• Seasonal challenges
• Traffic patterns
• Weather conditions

Winter Holidays and Weather Considerations

In Minneapolis and surrounding areas, winter holiday moves require extra attention.

Consider:

• Snow removal
• Ice control on walkways
• Heated storage options
• Weather delays

Affinity Moving is equipped for winter moves and takes precautions to protect floors, furniture, and safety during cold weather.

Choosing the Right Holiday Movers

If you need movers during a holiday, choose a company that:

• Is licensed and insured
• Offers clear communication
• Provides written estimates
• Has strong local reviews
• Understands seasonal logistics

Experience matters, especially when timing is tight.

Final Thoughts: Do Movers Work on Holidays?

So, do movers work on holidays?

Yes, some do. But availability depends on the holiday and the company.

If you are considering holiday moving:

• Confirm availability early
• Prepare thoroughly
• Understand potential pricing differences
• Choose experienced local movers

With the right planning, even a holiday move can be smooth and successful.

Call Affinity Moving Today

Need help with a move near a holiday? Affinity Moving is here to guide you through the process.

• Call 612-416-6640
• Visit our website to request a free estimate
• Serving Minneapolis, St. Paul, Edina, Bloomington, and surrounding Twin Cities areas

Affinity Moving provides reliable service year-round, including select holiday scheduling when available.

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