Key Takeaways
- Do moving companies work on holidays? Some do, some don't, and some charge extra. There is no industry-wide rule, so always ask the specific company directly.
- Holiday moves may cost roughly 10% to 30% more than weekday moves, according to a 2025 FreightWaves Checkpoint estimate, though pricing varies widely by company.
- Ask for an itemized written estimate that states whether your requested date carries a holiday or overtime surcharge, and confirm your arrival window.
- Book several weeks ahead, since holiday dates fill quickly with fewer crews working and more people wanting the same days.
- Consider moving the day before or after a holiday, as nearby dates often have better availability and may avoid a holiday surcharge.
- For long-distance moves, confirm pickup, transit, and delivery dates separately, because the truck may keep traveling during a holiday even when the local crew is closed.
Picture this: your closing date lands right before Thanksgiving, your lease ends on New Year's Eve, or your new job starts the Monday after a long weekend. Suddenly one big question pops up. Do moving companies work on holidays?
The short answer is yes, some do. But there is no industry-wide rule. Schedules vary by company, location, crew availability, and the type of move. Some movers close for major holidays. Others stay open and may charge extra. A few even advertise year-round service.
The good news is that a holiday move is totally doable with a little planning. Whether you are a Polk County homeowner moving across town, a family heading out of state, or a retiree settling into a new home, this guide walks you through what to expect, what it may cost, and what to ask before you book. Let's make this one easy.
The Short Answer: It Depends on the Mover
Many local movers close on the biggest holidays, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Some also limit service on holiday eves or long weekends. Other companies keep crews on the road and simply price those dates differently.
That is why a quick phone call beats guessing. Holiday policies are company-specific. There is no reliable industry-wide number for how many movers work on holidays, so the best move is to ask directly and get the answer in writing.
Why Movers Handle Holidays Differently
Moving crews are real people with families and traditions. Many companies give their teams time off on major dates. Trucks also need maintenance, and demand can spike around holiday weekends. All of that shapes who is available and when.
Typical Holiday Availability at a Glance
Every company sets its own schedule, so treat the table below as a general guide only. Always confirm with your mover.
| Holiday | What You May See | Smart Move |
|---|---|---|
| New Year's Day | Many local movers close | Ask about Dec. 31 or Jan. 2 |
| Memorial Day weekend | Often open, but busy | Book early and confirm timing |
| July 4th | Some close, some limit hours | Check the day before or after |
| Labor Day weekend | Busy lease-end period | Reserve weeks ahead |
| Thanksgiving | Many companies closed | Look at the Wednesday before or Friday after |
| Christmas Day | Commonly closed | Ask about nearby dates |
Will Movers Charge Extra for a Holiday Move?
Sometimes. Some companies apply holiday, overtime, or off-hours rates. Others charge the same price as any other day. It is not universal, so do not assume either way.
For a rough idea, a 2025 cost guide from FreightWaves Checkpoint estimates that weekend and holiday moves may cost about 10% to 30% more than weekday moves. Actual prices depend on your route, home size, region, service level, and the company. Think of that range as a guide, not a promise.
One Massachusetts mover tariff, for example, lists off-hours surcharges of $25 to $100 per mover for work outside standard hours. That is one company's rate sheet and not a typical holiday fee, but it shows how surcharges can work.
How to Avoid Surprise Fees
The best defense is a clear, itemized written estimate. It should say whether your requested date carries an extra charge. If you want to understand how quotes are built, our guide on how moving company quotes really work in 2026 breaks it down in plain language.
You can also compare hourly vs. flat-rate moving company pricing to see which structure may fit your holiday move better.
Long-Distance Moves and Holidays
Here is something many people miss. A long-distance shipment may keep traveling during a holiday even if the mover's local office or delivery crew is closed. That means your pickup and delivery dates can slip.
If you are leaving Florida, plan each stage separately. Ask about the pickup date, the transit window, and the delivery date. Our tips for planning long-distance moving in Polk County, FL and this look at what to know before an interstate move from Lakeland can help you build a realistic timeline.
Questions to Ask for Each Stage
- What day will the crew pick up my belongings?
- Will the truck travel during the holiday?
- Is the delivery crew available on my delivery date?
- Who do I call if there is a delay?
- Is the holiday timing reflected in my written estimate?
Why Holiday Moves Can Feel Trickier
Holiday periods can mean fewer available crews and trucks. Travel congestion can also affect timing, especially on busy highways. Add family visits, school breaks, and holiday traffic, and a move can get stressful fast.
The good news is that most of these issues come down to planning. Booking early and confirming details cuts the uncertainty way down.
Common Holiday Move Challenges
- Fewer crews and trucks available
- Higher demand around lease-end weekends
- Travel traffic that affects arrival windows
- Closed offices, so slower answers to questions
- Building or HOA rules that limit weekend or holiday access
Is It Better to Move the Day Before or After a Holiday?
Often, yes. If a mover is unavailable on the holiday itself, ask about the days immediately before or after. A little date flexibility can improve availability and may help you avoid a holiday surcharge.
For example, if Thanksgiving Day is booked or closed, a Wednesday or Friday slot might open the door to a smoother, less expensive move. You may also like our rundown of the best times to move house in 2026.
How Far in Advance Should You Book?
For a holiday move, earlier is better. Holiday dates fill up because fewer crews are working and more people want those same days. Booking several weeks ahead gives you more choices and more time to compare quotes.
If your plans change at the last minute, do not panic. Some companies can still help on short notice. Take a look at our guide on finding last-minute movers who won't let you down, and keep in mind that weekend moving services in Winter Haven, FL may overlap with holiday availability.
What to Ask a Moving Company Before Booking a Holiday Move
A few good questions can save you a lot of stress. Use this list when you call.
- Are you open on my move date? Get a clear yes or no.
- Is there a holiday or overtime surcharge? Ask for the amount in writing.
- What is my arrival window? Holiday traffic can shift timing.
- What happens if there is a delay? Ask about the backup plan.
- Are you licensed and insured? This matters on any date.
- Can you move me the day before or after? Flexibility can help.
Verifying credentials is easy, and it always pays off. Our guide on verifying licensed and insured movers before booking shows you how, and the Florida moving company licensing rules are worth a quick read too.
Holiday Moves for Different Types of Households
Local Homeowners in Polk County
If you are staying close to home, a holiday move can be simple. Local crews often have more scheduling flexibility, and a short drive means fewer travel surprises. Confirm the date, the crew size, and the price, and you are set. Our local moving Lakeland cost and hiring guide is a great starting point.
Retirees and Seniors
Holiday timing can be extra emotional for older adults leaving a longtime home. Choose a calm, patient crew and give yourself breathing room. Spreading the move over a day or two can ease the pressure. See these moving help options for the elderly in Lakeland for more ideas.
Large Families and Estate Owners
Big homes mean big loads, and holiday crews may be smaller than usual. Ask how many movers and trucks will be assigned. Confirm that your crew can handle bulky furniture and specialty pieces like pianos or antiques.
Luxury Apartment Residents
High-end buildings often have strict move-in rules, including elevator reservations and loading dock hours. Holidays can limit building staff. Check with management early, and review our tips for apartment moving in Polk County.
What About Commercial Holiday Moves?
Businesses sometimes schedule moves on holidays to reduce disruption. Fewer employees on site means less downtime. Availability and pricing still depend on the mover's policy and the building's access rules.
Confirm building management, elevator use, loading-dock hours, and security arrangements ahead of time. If your office is relocating, these office mover tips for a smooth 2026 business move can help.
Tips for a Smooth Holiday Move
- Book early. Holiday dates go fast.
- Get everything in writing. Date, price, and arrival window.
- Pack ahead. Do not leave it for the last night.
- Plan for traffic. Build in extra time.
- Keep essentials with you. Medications, documents, chargers, and a change of clothes.
- Stay flexible. A one-day shift can make a big difference.
Packing help can also take a big load off your plate during a busy season. Here is how full-service packing compares to self-packing.
Tipping and Thank-Yous During the Holidays
Crews who work on holidays are giving up time with their own families. A little appreciation goes a long way. Cold drinks, a warm meal, and a thoughtful tip are always welcome. For guidance, see our simple rules on how much to tip movers.
Moving With DynaMight Movers
At DynaMight Movers, we are a licensed and insured moving company serving Lakeland, Winter Haven, Davenport, Dover, and the rest of Polk County. We offer local and long-distance residential moves, specialty item moving, and heavy lifting help, all with transparent pricing and no hidden fees. Curious how other local families feel? You can visit us on Google and read DynaMight Movers reviews.
Holiday and weekend schedules can change, so the easiest way to know what is open is to ask us. We will tell you what is available for your date and put the details in your estimate.
Final Thoughts
So, do moving companies work on holidays? Some do, some do not, and some charge a little extra. The key is to ask early, compare options, and get every detail in writing. A bit of flexibility on your date can also open up better availability and save you money.
With the right mover and a solid plan, a holiday move can go smoothly. Ready to lock in your date? Get a free estimate or call us at (866) 349-7719. We would love to help you move with confidence, holiday or not.
FAQs
Q: Do moving companies work on Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year's Day?
A: Many do not. Lots of local movers close on these big days to give crews time with family. A few companies stay open, so it is always worth a quick call. If your mover is closed, ask about the day before or after.
Q: Do movers charge extra for moving on a holiday?
A: Some do, and some do not. A 2025 cost guide estimates holiday and weekend moves may run about 10% to 30% more, but every company is different. Ask for an itemized written estimate that clearly states whether your date has an extra charge.
Q: How far in advance should I book movers for a holiday move?
A: The earlier the better. Holiday dates fill up fast because fewer crews are working. Booking several weeks ahead gives you more choices and more time to compare quotes.
Q: Can a long-distance moving truck deliver my belongings on a holiday?
A: Maybe, but do not count on it. A long-distance shipment can keep traveling during a holiday even if the local delivery crew is closed. Confirm the pickup, transit, and delivery dates separately so there are no surprises.
Q: Is it cheaper to move the day before or after a holiday?
A: Often it can be. A nearby date may have better availability and may avoid a holiday surcharge. Ask your mover to compare pricing for a few different days so you can pick what works best.