How to Move House During Melbourne’s School Holidays Without the Stress
Planning a move during the school holidays in Melbourne? You're not alone. Families across Victoria often choose to relocate during school breaks — avoiding classroom disruptions, taking advantage of annual leave, and aiming for a fresh start before the next term begins. But there's a catch: everyone else has the same idea.
From limited availability to higher costs and restless kids at home, moving house during school holidays can feel like organised chaos — unless you’re prepared. This guide walks you through the best strategies to move house during school holidays with fewer headaches and more control.
🧭 Why Families Move During the School Holidays
Whether you're upsizing in the eastern suburbs, changing school zones, or relocating across Melbourne, the school holidays offer a natural window for major family transitions. Key reasons include:
- No disruptions to your child’s school routine
- Time off work is easier to coordinate
- Greater flexibility for long-distance or interstate moves
- A chance to settle in before school resumes
But with so many families on the move at once, the demand for Melbourne removalists for families spikes — especially in December, January, and April.
📅 Term-by-Term: When to Book Your Move in Victoria
| School Holiday | Suggested Booking Lead Time | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| April (Autumn) | 4–6 weeks ahead | End-of-financial-year traffic begins |
| July (Winter) | 5–6 weeks ahead | Cold, wet weather = tighter moving windows |
| September (Spring) | 3–5 weeks ahead | Popular for families prepping before Term 4 |
| December–January (Summer) | 6–8 weeks ahead | Hottest, busiest, most expensive season |
Pro tip: Booking early doesn’t just guarantee availability — it often locks in better pricing and more flexible service options.
👉 Secure your removalist quote early
🚚 Removalist Availability & Peak Period Surcharges
Holiday moving demand means Melbourne removalists fill up fast — especially for Friday and weekend slots. Here’s what you need to know:
📈 When demand surges:
- Friday–Monday (especially end of month)
- Christmas to New Year (often 30% higher rates)
- First week of January (limited crews available)
💡 How to save money:
- Move mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday)
- Be open to flexible pickup windows
- Ask about shared loads or backloading
Backloading is especially useful if you’re doing a regional or interstate move during holidays — saving money by sharing truck space. Learn more about that here.
👨👩👧👦 Managing Children During a School Holiday Move
If you’ve ever tried to pack a box while your toddler unpacked it… you know the struggle. Managing children while moving during school holidays takes both strategy and patience.
Here’s how to make it work:
- Talk about the move early. Kids handle change better when they know what's coming.
- Let them pack their own box of favourite things — it gives them ownership.
- Create a comfort kit with snacks, devices, chargers, and familiar toys for moving day.
- Arrange a playdate, grandparent day, or sitter during the heavy lifting.
- Visit the new home in advance if possible — especially bedrooms and the local park.
For more detailed tips on family-focused relocation, check out our Moving With Kids & Pets Guide.
🗂️ Sample Family Move Timeline for December–January Holidays
- Mid-November: Book your removalist, notify schools, start decluttering
- Late November: Begin packing non-essentials and label by room
- Early December: Finalise packing for kids' bedrooms & common areas
- 1 Week Out: Confirm removalist time, prepare essentials bags
- Moving Day: Keep kids occupied, unpack kids' items first at new home
- Post-Move Week: Register with local school, settle into new routines
📦 Family-Focused Packing Tips During School Holidays
- Use colour-coded labels for each child or room
- Keep school supplies and uniforms packed separately for easy access
- Pack children's rooms last so they feel less disrupted
- Prepare an "open first" box with toothbrushes, sheets, snacks, chargers
Need more time-saving hacks? Our Packing Hacks for Moving House article has you covered.
🎒 Don’t Forget the School-Side Logistics
If your move involves a change in school or childcare, plan this out well in advance. Melbourne schools typically require:
- Updated address documents
- Enrolment or transfer forms
- Sometimes, an in-person interview
Try to submit paperwork at least 3–4 weeks before the new term begins. If you’re moving suburbs, check zoning requirements to avoid last-minute surprises.
Also consider school holiday programs in your new area — they can offer temporary care solutions while you unpack and settle in.
🏡 Is Moving House During School Holidays Worth It?
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| No school disruption | Higher moving costs |
| More time to unpack together | Movers book out early |
| Works well for big lifestyle changes | Holiday season traffic and stress |
| Kids can settle in before school resumes | Finding help (sitters, friends) is harder |
🚀 Ready to Make the Move?
Whether you're moving from Croydon to Ringwood or planning a bigger jump across Melbourne, Maroondah Removals & Storage has helped hundreds of families move during Victoria’s school holiday windows — safely, smoothly, and without the panic.
- Child-aware crews who work quickly and respectfully
- Packing and unpacking services to lighten your load
- Flexible booking for holiday season removalist schedules
- Experience with moves across eastern and outer Melbourne suburbs
Moving During School Holidays in Melbourne FAQs
Is moving during school holidays a good idea for families?
Yes, moving during school holidays can be advantageous for families. It allows children to transition without disrupting their academic schedule and provides ample time to settle into the new environment. However, it's essential to plan ahead, as this period is popular for relocations, leading to higher demand for removalist services. For a seamless experience, consider our Stress-Free Moving Guide.
How far in advance should we book our move during school holidays?
It's advisable to book your move at least 4–6 weeks in advance during school holidays. This period sees a surge in moving activities, and early booking ensures you secure your preferred date and time. To get started, request a quote through our Removal Quote page.
What are some tips for moving with children during school holidays?
Involving children in the moving process can ease their transition. Assign them age-appropriate tasks, like packing their toys or labeling boxes. Maintain routines as much as possible to provide stability. For more insights, explore our Moving with Kids and Pets guide.
Are there cost considerations when moving during school holidays?
Due to high demand, moving costs can be higher during school holidays. To manage expenses, consider moving on weekdays or mid-month when rates may be lower. For budget-friendly tips, refer to our Cost-Effective Moving Tips.
How can we keep our children entertained during the move?
Preparing a "moving day kit" with favorite toys, books, and snacks can keep children occupied. Additionally, setting up a designated safe space in the new home where they can relax helps them adjust. For more strategies, visit our Moving with Kids and Pets page.
Should we hire professional packers or pack ourselves during school holidays?
Hiring professional packers can alleviate stress, especially during the busy school holiday period. It allows you to focus on your family while ensuring belongings are packed efficiently. Learn about our services on the Packing and Unpacking Services page.
How do we manage pets during a move in school holidays?
Moving can be stressful for pets. Consider arranging for them to stay with a friend or in a pet boarding facility on moving day. Ensure their essentials are easily accessible. For comprehensive advice, check our Moving with Kids and Pets guide.
What should we do if our new home isn't ready before school resumes?
If your new home isn't ready, consider temporary accommodation options and ensure your children's school enrollment is not delayed. Coordinate with both the current and new schools for a smooth transition. For assistance, contact us through our Removal Quote page.
How can Maroondah Removals assist with our school holiday move?
At Maroondah Removals, we offer tailored moving solutions to fit your family's needs during school holidays. From packing services to secure storage options, our team ensures a stress-free relocation. Learn more about our offerings on the Local Melbourne Removal Services page.