How to Pack Gifts and Holiday Items When Moving in December

Moving in December can feel like juggling a relocation and the holidays at the same time. Between wrapping presents, decorating, and planning gatherings, the last thing you want is broken ornaments or damaged gifts in the chaos of a move. The good news? With a little planning—and the right moving services—you can protect your holiday treasures and keep the season merry and bright in Farmington Hills, MI; Grand Rapids, MI; West Chester, OH; and Indianapolis, IN.
If you’re planning a December move, University Moving and Storage is here to help. Call (844) 366-0245 to speak with our team about full-service moving services tailored to your timeline and holiday needs.

1. Sort and Declutter Holiday Items First
Before you start packing, go through your holiday décor and supplies:
• Toss broken ornaments and lights that don’t work
• Donate décor you no longer love or use
• Consolidate wrapping paper, bows, and ribbons
This step saves space in your moving truck and makes unpacking simpler in your new home. It also helps our movers load and unload more efficiently.

2. Pack Gifts Strategically
If you’ve already bought and wrapped gifts, treat them like fragile items:
• Use sturdy boxes: Thin or worn boxes can crush easily in transit.
• Add cushioning: Line the bottom and sides of each box with packing paper or bubble wrap.
• Label discreetly: Instead of writing “Gifts for Kids” on the box, use a simple label like “Closet – Box 3” to keep surprises hidden.
If possible, consider packing gifts unwrapped and wrapping them after you arrive. This reduces the risk of torn paper and crushed bows.

3. Protect Fragile Ornaments and Décor
Holiday décor is often delicate and sentimental. Treat it with extra care:
• Individual wrapping: Wrap each ornament in tissue or bubble wrap, especially glass or heirloom pieces.
• Use divided boxes: Ornament organizers or repurposed drink carriers keep items separated and secure.
• Pack heavy items at the bottom: Place heavier décor at the bottom of the box and lighter items on top.
Clearly mark these boxes as “Fragile – Holiday Décor” so our movers know to handle them with extra care.

4. Safely Pack Lights, Garlands, and Wreaths
Nothing is more frustrating than a tangled knot of lights after a move. To avoid this:
• Wrap lights around cardboard pieces or a plastic reel
• Coil garlands and place them in large zip-top bags
• Pack wreaths in sturdy, shallow boxes to protect their shape
Neat packing now means quicker decorating when you settle into your new home.

5. Keep Essential Holiday Items Accessible
If you’ll be celebrating right after your move, pack a clearly marked “Holiday Essentials” box with:
• Stockings
• A few favorite décor pieces
• Gift wrap, tape, and scissors
• A small string of lights or a tabletop tree
Load this box last so it’s first off the truck. With our professional moving services, you can coordinate which boxes you’ll need right away for a smoother transition.

6. Let the Professionals Help
December weather, tight timelines, and holiday stress make this one of the hardest times to move. Partnering with experienced movers can take a huge weight off your shoulders. University Moving and Storage offers reliable moving services that protect your belongings—and your sanity—during the busy holiday season.
Ready to plan your December move? Call University Moving and Storage at (844) 366-0245 today to schedule your move and keep your holidays joyful, organized, and stress-free.