Why is it important to ensure early planning for January and February Moves?
A move at the start of the year can feel like hitting “reset.”
New beginnings, a new home, a fresh outlook.
But while the idea of a clean slate is gorgeous, the reality of a January or February move can catch you off guard if you wait too long.
Winter moves tend to sneak up fast: properties get snapped up, removals calendars fill, and before you know it, you’re scrambling.
Getting ahead, booking your movers early, plotting out your timeline, and preparing carefully make all the difference between a panicky rush and a smooth, controlled transition.
If you’re thinking of relocating in the first months of the new year, read on.
Why Winter Moves Often Spark a Rush, And What That Means for You
In the build-up to Christmas, the housing market generally slows down.
But when December’s festive blur fades, many households start thinking about a fresh start.
New job. New city. Bigger home. Smaller home. Whatever the reason, the holiday lull is gone, and the moving market revs up again.
Because demand spikes, the best removal slots are in high demand.
Waiting until January or February to ring up a removals company may leave you stuck with less professional removal companies because all the good ones are booked, leaving limited dates, smaller crews and disappointment when there’s no availability; a headache nobody wants when already juggling property paperwork.
By acting early, you lock in a better choice: more reliable scheduling, better-priced quotes, and the breathing room to plan everything else around your move.
Doing so gives you control not just over your selected moving day, but also over how smoothly you get there.
Sketching Your Move Plan: Timelines, Budget & Booking Basics
A successful winter move starts with a plan. Think of it like drawing a simple map from “Now” to “New Home Day.”
First estimate roughly when you’d like to move. Don’t worry about being exact yet.
Next, work out a budget: removals costs, packing supplies, potential storage, and maybe a bit extra for winter-related unpredictability.
Then reach out to a trusted removals company like Curtiss Moving & Storage for a no-obligation house move survey and quote (see: our house removals page).
Even if your date isn’t fixed, early contact can reserve you a slot and give plenty of time to adjust as your plans evolve.
Meanwhile, build a simple timeline: when to start decluttering, when to gather boxes and materials, and when to confirm the final moving date.
That structure keeps stress low and confidence high.
Declutter & Sort, Use the Extra Time to Lighten the Load
Do you know one of the many benefits of planning well in advance? Time to sift through your stuff, not in a mad rush, but carefully and methodically.
Winter gives you the perfect excuse to re-evaluate what stays and what goes. Spare clothes, outdated kitchenware, old paperwork, forgotten gadgets: this is the time to decide.
Getting rid of what you don’t need doesn’t just make packing easier. It reduces the number of boxes and the size of van you require, which can lower your removals cost.
Donate, recycle or pass on gently used items. By the time moving day nears, you’ll only be handling what truly matters.
That means less work, less chaos, and often, a lower bill.
Have a look at our blog Declutter Before Moving House: 7 Essential Tips.
Packing with Purpose: Don’t Leave It Until the Last Minute
Procrastinating on packing is one of the most common house-move mistakes, especially with winter’s shorter days and the pull of post-holiday routines.
Instead: start early. Grab good quality boxes, heavy-duty tape, padding materials, labels and begin with rooms you rarely use, such as guest rooms, attics, and storage cupboards.
Label like a pro: room name + summary of contents. It’ll make unpacking significantly easier.
And don’t forget a “first-night essentials” box: clean clothes, kettle or coffee gear, chargers, important documents, basic toiletries.
Winters can be chilly and gloomy, so having essentials accessible on arrival is a lifesaver.
If DIY isn’t for you, opt for a full-service packing from Curtiss, you won’t regret it, it’s a great choice and one that many movers appreciate for winter moves, when time is tight and daylight hours are limited.
Winter Specifics: Why Extra Planning Matters at This Time of Year
Moving in the colder months throws up specific challenges: unpredictable weather, early nights, possible ice, and limited daylight hours.
Add into the mix narrow drives, parking restrictions, or tricky access at the new home, and you’ve got a recipe for major disruption unless you plan ahead.
That’s why working with a seasoned removals firm that knows how to navigate winter conditions is a must.
Discuss with them whether they use protective coverings, secure loading methods, and weather-proof transport.
Double-check parking or access issues at both properties.
Confirm a time that makes sense (not too early, not too late).
And ensure utilities will be ready so you’re not arriving at a cold, dark, empty shell.
Final Checks & Moving Day: What to Have Sorted Before the Big Day
In the final countdown to moving day, think of the previous 24 hours as your last tidy-up round.
Do one final slow sweep through every space, lofts, airing cupboards, garden corners, that “miscellaneous” drawer everyone forgets, to make sure nothing gets left behind.
Empty and dry the fridge and freezer, deal with anything perishable, and set aside a safe, quiet spot for pets or little ones while the loading gets underway.
Better still, have a family member or friend to take care of them for the day.
Keep your essentials box close by so you’re not rummaging for chargers or toothbrushes when you reach the new place.
It’s also the moment to jot down meter readings, snap a few photos of the property in its final condition, and double-check access details with your removals team.
Clear info on parking, stairways, tight hallways or lift use helps them arrive prepared, especially in winter when conditions can change quickly.
A quick conversation now can prevent a whole lot of stress later.
Why Curtiss Moving & Storage Is the Smart Move for Your January/February Relocation
Planning early and hiring the right removals team go hand in hand, and that’s where Curtiss Moving & Storage shines.
With decades of experience, BAR membership, a full-service approach (packing, storage, transport), and a track record of reliable, friendly service in challenging conditions, we understand how to make winter moves manageable.
By contacting us ahead of time, even before your move date is set, you get the advantage of availability, flexibility, and peace of mind.
Our removal team handles the heavy lifting, while you focus on checkout details, post redirection, and looking forward to the new home.
If you’re serious about a calm, well-planned move in the New Year, getting in touch early with Curtiss is simply common sense.
Further Tips and Advice for Movers
If you’re hungry for more moving know-how, Curtiss Removals has a whole library of guides and practical tips ready to explore.
Our blogs cover everything from packing tricks to seasonal move advice, so it’s well worth having a browse if you’re preparing for the big day.
