New Year, New Home: How to Plan a January Move from Chicago
Updated: 2 days ago
January is when a lot of people decide it is finally time. A new job starts, a lease is up, or the family agrees that this is the year to move closer to home or somewhere warmer. If you are planning a move out of Chicago in the new year, a little planning now makes winter moving much easier.
Here is a simple plan to get you from decision to delivery.
IN THIS GUIDE Planning a move in January? A step-by-step plan for moving out of state from Chicago in winter, with timing tips, packing advice and how to book direct. |
NEW YEAR MOVING TIP January can be a calmer month to move. Lock in your date early and leave a few extra days in your plan for winter weather. |
Why January can be a smart time to move
More flexibility. Winter is usually a slower season for movers than late spring and summer, so it can be easier to find the date you want.
A fresh start. Moving early in the year gives you time to settle in before school schedules, summer travel and busy work seasons.
Planning time over the holidays. Many people use the quiet days at the end of December to sort, declutter and make a plan.
Your January moving plan
4 to 6 weeks before
Decide your target moving date and a backup date.
Request quotes and book your mover. MLV can often book with about one week of notice, but booking early gives you more choice.
Start decluttering. Sell or donate furniture and items you will not use in your new home.
Ask your new building or HOA about move-in rules, elevator reservations and certificates of insurance.
2 to 3 weeks before
Make a complete inventory, room by room, including the garage, basement and storage unit.
Start packing the rooms you use least, like guest rooms and seasonal decorations.
Schedule utilities to stop at your old home and start at your new one.
Change your address with USPS, your bank and your employer.
The last week
Pack the kitchen and most of your clothes, leaving only the essentials.
Confirm your moving date and arrival window with your mover.
Clean and defrost the refrigerator at least a day before moving day.
Pack your essentials bag: documents, medications, chargers, clothes, toiletries and snacks.
Moving day
Clear snow and ice from walkways, steps and driveways.
Put mats or cardboard at the entrance to protect your floors.
Do a final walk-through with the crew before the truck leaves.
Winter moving tips for Chicago
Keep your date a little flexible. If a big storm is in the forecast, call your mover early to talk through options.
Protect cold-sensitive items. Electronics, houseplants and some liquids do not like freezing temperatures. Keep what you can in your car.
Plan parking. Snow can reduce street space. Confirm where the truck will park at both homes.
Dress for the job. You will be going in and out a lot. Keep a warm jacket and dry shoes handy.
Don't forget the paperwork
A new state means new requirements. Check your new state's rules and deadlines for driver's licenses, vehicle registration and voter registration. If your employer is paying for part of your move, ask what documents they need from the mover.
If your new home is not ready
Many January moves happen in two steps: out of the old home first, into the new home later. Storage between moves gives you that flexibility. MLV offers storage as part of our moving and storage services. Learn more on our Home Relocation page.
Start the year with a direct move
When you book directly with MLV Transportation, there is no broker in the middle. Our own crew loads, moves and delivers your home, and you have one team to call from start to finish. See how it works on our Long Distance Moving page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it more difficult to move in winter?
Winter moves need a little extra planning for weather, but they are very common. Preparing both homes for snow and keeping some flexibility in your dates makes a big difference.
How far ahead should I book a January move?
We can often book with about one week of notice, but booking several weeks ahead gives you the most choice of dates.
Can you pack for me?
Yes. MLV offers full packing service and sells packing supplies.
What if my moving date changes?
Call us as soon as you know. Cancellations or date changes need 72 hours notice.
Ready to Move? Talk to the Real Movers
SAVE 10% WHEN YOU BOOK DIRECT Use code MLVSAML2026 The Real Movers. No broker in the middle. |
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