Should You Move Before or After School Holidays? Pros and Cons

George Hampson
Aug 8
3 min read

For families with school-age children, planning a house move involves more than just boxes and logistics – the school calendar plays a major role too. One of the most common questions we hear from parents is: Should we move before or after the school holidays?

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Both options come with pros and cons depending on your family circumstances, how far you’re moving, and how flexible your timeline is.

This guide breaks down both sides so you can make an informed decision that works for your household – academically, emotionally, and practically.

Moving Before the School Holidays

Relocating before the summer break (usually late June or early July) may sound disruptive, but it can provide a smoother transition overall – especially if you're moving to a completely new area.

Pros

Start Fresh in September: Your children will begin the new academic year at their new school – just like everyone else. This avoids the awkwardness of joining mid-term and helps them settle in more naturally.
Time to Adjust: The summer holidays give your family a few weeks to adjust to your new surroundings, get to know the neighbourhood, and create a sense of familiarity before the school routine kicks in.
Fewer Missed Lessons: Moving just before the holidays often means children miss the tail end of the school year – a period that usually involves lighter teaching, wrap-up activities, or school trips.
Access to Places at New Schools: Many schools finalise admissions just before the summer holidays. Moving earlier could increase your chances of securing a spot in your preferred school, particularly if it's oversubscribed.

Cons

End-of-Term Disruption: Your children may miss out on saying goodbye to friends, school-leavers' events, or end-of-term celebrations.
Rushed Planning: Moving before the holidays can mean scrambling to get everything sorted while school is still in session – which can be particularly stressful if your kids need attention or help with end-of-year projects.

Moving After the School Holidays

Waiting until the holidays are over and moving in late August or early September can give you more breathing room to pack, plan and prepare. But it comes with its own considerations.

Pros

No School Disruption: Your children can finish their academic year with a sense of closure – attending final events, saying goodbye properly, and completing any assessments.
Plenty of Time to Pack: You’ll have the whole summer to prepare without having to balance the school run, packed lunches or end-of-term chaos. It can make the move itself far less hectic.
Cost Benefits: Depending on your removal company, moving during the early part of the holidays – before peak demand – could help you secure better rates or availability.

Cons

Mid-Term Start: If your move spills into the new school year, your child may need to start late at a new school – potentially missing the induction period and having to play catch-up.
Uncertainty Around School Places: Leaving the move too late may mean fewer options if you haven’t secured a school place. Popular schools might already be full by September.
Less Time to Settle In: Moving just before or after term begins gives children little time to get used to a new home or surroundings before diving back into a full schedule.

Other Factors to Consider

When deciding whether to move before or after school holidays, you’ll also want to consider:

Work Commitments: Will one timing option allow you to take time off more easily?
Childcare Needs: Will you need to arrange childcare during the packing and moving period?
School Admissions: Have you already secured a place, or are you still applying? Where you live can affect catchment areas.
Distance of the Move: Local moves may be more flexible; long-distance relocations often benefit from a longer transition period.

Final Thoughts: Which Is Best?

Ultimately, the best time to move depends on your family’s priorities:

Want to minimise disruption and let your kids start fresh in September? Move before the holidays.
Need time to pack properly and finish the school year with closure? Move during or just after the holidays.

Whichever route you choose, clear planning and good communication are key. Let your children know what’s happening and involve them in the process where you can – whether it’s helping pack a box or choosing new school supplies.

Need Help With Your Move?

Whether you’re planning a move before or after the school holidays, Saint Removals is here to make it as smooth and stress-free as possible. We offer tailored removals for families across the UK — with flexible booking options, professional packing, and expert advice to support you every step of the way.