Don't Let the Holiday Hustle Hijack Your Move: Navigating Long Weekend Moving in Ottawa

That long weekend? It’s prime time for vacations, BBQs, and relaxation. But it can also be a surprisingly tricky time to move!

Here at Upmove, we see a surge of moves happening over holidays like Labour Day, Thanksgiving, and the May Two-Four. While that extra day off seems ideal, moving on a long weekend comes with its own unique set of challenges. Let's break down what you need to know to navigate it successfully – and avoid turning your celebratory weekend into a stressful ordeal.

Why Long Weekend Moves Are Different (and Sometimes Tougher)

It’s not just about having an extra day off. Here's why moving on a long weekend requires extra planning:

Increased Demand: Everyone else wants to move too! This means higher prices, limited availability of movers, and potentially longer wait times for everything from truck rentals to packing supplies.
Traffic Troubles: Expect heavier traffic than usual as people are travelling for their holiday getaways. This can significantly impact travel times between your old place and your new one.
Service Disruptions: Some businesses (like appliance stores or furniture delivery services) might have limited hours or be completely closed, potentially delaying essential tasks related to your move.
Potential for Delays: With more people on the road and potential service disruptions, unexpected delays are more likely.

Planning Your Long Weekend Move: A Strategic Approach

Okay, so you're committed to moving over a long weekend. Here’s how to make it work for you, not against you:

1. Book Early – Like, Really Early!

This is the absolute most crucial step. Movers, truck rentals, and even packing supplies get booked up months in advance for holiday weekends. Don't wait until the last minute – secure your services ASAP. We at Upmove often book up weeks ahead of time for these popular dates, so don’t delay!

2. Be Flexible (and Have a Backup Plan)

Things rarely go exactly as planned during a move, and even less so on a long weekend when everything is in higher demand. Be prepared to adjust your schedule if necessary.

Consider Mid-Weekend Moves: Saturday or Sunday might be slightly less hectic than Friday, which is often the busiest day.
Have a Contingency Plan: What will you do if your movers are delayed? Do you have friends or family who can help in a pinch?

3. Pack Smart – Even Smarter for a Holiday Weekend

With potential delays looming, being extra organized is key.

Pack Essentials Separately: Create an "essentials box" with everything you'll need for the first few days in your new home: toiletries, medications, phone chargers, basic kitchen supplies, etc.
Label Clearly (Again!): We can’t stress this enough! Detailed labels will be a lifesaver if things get chaotic.
Consider Packing Services: If you're short on time or feeling overwhelmed, professional packing services can take a huge weight off your shoulders.

4. Account for Traffic & Travel Time

Factor in extra travel time between locations, especially if you’re moving within Ottawa or to/from surrounding areas like Gatineau or Hull. Traffic jams are more likely during holiday weekends.

5. Confirm Everything – Twice!

A week before your move, confirm all bookings with movers, truck rental companies, and any other relevant services. Double-check dates, times, and locations to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Long Distance Moves & Holiday Weekends: Extra Considerations

If you're undertaking a long distance moving project over the holiday weekend, be even more vigilant.

Allow for Extended Travel Times: Road conditions and traffic can be unpredictable.
Communicate with Your Movers: Stay in close contact with your moving company to monitor progress and address any potential issues.

Enjoy Your Holiday – We’ve Got You Covered!

Moving on a long weekend isn't ideal, but it is manageable with careful planning and preparation. Let Upmove take the stress out of your move so you can actually enjoy that extra day off! From local moves to specialized services like office moving, we’re here to handle the heavy lifting (literally!). Get a free quote today and let us help you make your long weekend move a success!