Holiday relocations put extra pressure on household goods shipments. Carriers have fewer working days, weather can cause delays, and employees want their belongings in place before the new year. Here is how to approach booking so a holiday move stays on schedule.
Book as Soon as the Move Is Approved
The simplest rule is to start the household goods process the moment a relocation is approved. Pickup and delivery dates are limited around the holidays, and the longer you wait, the fewer options you have. Exact lead times vary by carrier, route, and shipment size, so ask your provider what they need for the dates you are targeting instead of assuming.
Get an Accurate Survey Early
A reliable estimate depends on understanding what is being moved. A survey of the home, either in person or by video, avoids surprises later. Our post on video survey household goods moves explains how video surveys speed up the process, which matters when time is tight.
Plan for Holiday Delays
Build buffer into the schedule. Carriers and offices may be closed on certain days, and weather can slow long-distance routes. If a delivery slips, the employee may need a few more days of temporary housing or storage, so plan for that possibility instead of treating it as an exception.
Setting expectations early with the employee is just as important, as covered in how to prepare employees for a year-end relocation.
Choose Carriers Carefully
Peak periods are when weaker carriers struggle most. Vetting matters, and our guide to how to vet a household goods mover lists the red flags to watch for. Many companies rely on a relocation partner to manage this, as explained in leveraging your RMC for household goods shipping and third-party household goods shipping.
Know What Is in the Shipment
Clear limits on shipment size and services, such as packing, storage, and valuation coverage, prevent disputes. Our overview of the shipment of household goods walks through how a managed shipment works.
Decide the Timing First
Booking works best once the move date is settled. If you are still deciding between a fall and a January move, start with before or after the holidays, and see our fall corporate relocation guide for a timeline. When you are ready to line up a household goods shipment, contact GMS.
