How Early Should You Book Movers for the New Year?

You just found out you’re moving… and the move date falls around the turn of the new year. This is already a big time of year for change. Schedules shift quickly after the holidays, which means you might be afraid of missing your preferred moving dates. Between holiday celebrations, job and school commitments, and organizing your move, how is it even possible to ring in the new year with a cross country move without scrambling? 

Thankfully, you don’t have to do it alone. National Van Lines has nearly a century of experience helping families move long distances. Over the years, we’ve seen a clear pattern: More people than you realize book cross country movers around the new year. And, they’re doing it successfully. 

In this article, you’ll learn: 

• Why early booking matters
• How far in advance to book
• What early booking provides
• When you should book immediately
• What to clarify before scheduling
• How early planning supports a smoother start to the year

Why does it matter that I book my new year’s move in advance? 

Many families and individuals tend to delay cross country moves until after the holidays are over. But, it’s important to remember that seasonal demand for moving companies increases as soon as January begins. 

Seasonal demand also affects how quickly cross country movers can confirm schedules. Early January often sees limited crew availability because many teams return from holiday breaks at staggered times. This means prime loading dates fill faster than most people expect. When you book your movers early, you protect the dates that work best for your schedule and avoid trying to fit into an already full calendar.

Booking early also helps if you need extra services, such as packing, storage, or specialty handling. These services require more coordination, and your moving team can prepare better when they have time to plan for your needs. Early planning gives you more room to organize your home, prepare your belongings, and make decisions without rushing.

How far in advance should I book movers for a new year move? 

Most people benefit from booking cross country movers at least two to three months before their new year move. This timeline gives you enough time to finalize your date, prepare your home, and work through your moving checklist with less stress.

Some moves call for even more lead time. We recommend booking as early as possible if you already know:

• Your exact move date 
• You’re moving a large household 
• If you want full packing and unpacking services
• If you’re moving to a distant region of the country 
• If your delivery timeline is tight 

Waiting too long can result in limited date choices and more difficulty organizing travel, packing, and delivery schedules. The key is to reach out as soon as you know your timing so your coordinator can walk you through your options.

What are the benefits of booking a move in advance? 

Booking early helps you take control of your move from the beginning. It gives you locked-in dates for loading and delivery, which means you can set your travel and home preparation plans with confidence. Your moving company has more time to answer questions, share updates, and help you understand how each step of the move will unfold.

You also get more space to prepare your home. Early booking lets you sort items you want to keep or donate, plan for fragile or heavy belongings, and understand what needs special attention. This extra time removes pressure and keeps the move from becoming a last minute scramble.

When cross country movers can plan ahead, they can also build a safer, smoother approach for your move. They can evaluate route needs, access details, packing concerns, and delivery windows. This preparation helps prevent delays and keeps your new year transition steady.

The emotional benefit is just as important. Starting the year with a clear plan allows you to stay present for the things that matter, whether it is time with family, managing work responsibilities, or using the new year to set fresh goals.

What are some signs I should book my movers right away? 

Some situations make it clear that you should schedule your movers ASAP.  These indicators help you understand whether your timeline is already tight or if early booking will protect your plans. The table below breaks down common scenarios and why each one calls for fast action.

When to Book Right Away

 

 

Booking your movers now can steady your entire new year moving timeline. Early action gives you more control, more clarity, and more time to prepare your home and your travel plans. It helps set the tone for a smooth, organized transition into the year ahead.

What are some key questions I should ask before I book movers for my new year move? 

Before you choose a moving company, you can feel prepared and confident by knowing what questions you want answered. The following list can help guide your planning and help your moving team understand exactly what you need.

Key questions to consider:

• What level of service do I want? This can include: Full packing, partial packing, loading only, or special handling for fragile or oversized items.
  
• How flexible are my dates? You’ll want to determine whether you can shift your move by a day or two, and what delivery window fits your travel or work schedule.
  
• What items need extra care? Electronics, collections, heavy furniture, fitness equipment, or anything that requires a specific packing or handling plan will require additional attention and planning.
  
• What communication plan works for me? Confirm the coordinator you’ll be working with, how often updates will be shared, and the steps that occur between booking and delivery.
  
• What are the access details for my home? Elevators, stairs, parking rules, and the distance from your front door to the truck all influence the mover’s preparation.

Thinking through these questions early gives you a clearer picture of what you want from your move. It also helps your movers design a plan that fits your home, your schedule, and your comfort level.

Starting the New Year with a Smooth Move

Planning a new year move has always taken careful coordination, and many people still feel unsure about the right timeline. Today, you have clearer information about how far in advance to book movers and what early planning can do for your schedule. With the right steps in place, you can start the year with a move that feels steady, organized, and easier to manage. 

With the data and resources available at your fingertips, you can start your new year move with confidence and stay in control of your plans. That way, no matter where you end up, you’re celebrating the new year confidently in your new home. 

You just learned about how to move during the new year period. If you’re moving in or out of a cold weather area, you might be wondering how to safely manage your move. Read our convenient blog on quick winter moving tips to keep you warm, safe, and on track. 

Ready to get your new year moving plan in place? We’re here to help. Get a quote today and see how National Van Lines fits in with your journey.