To pack holiday decorations for a move, sort by holiday, wrap fragile ornaments individually, coil lights around cardboard, and label each tote by holiday and room. Decor is light but delicate, so it needs padding, not weight.
How do you sort holiday decor before a move?
Go through each holiday and remove anything broken, faded or that you will not use again. Donate what you can, and only pack what you will actually decorate with. Aim to reduce by a third — decor has a way of multiplying.
How do you pack ornaments safely?
- Wrap each fragile ornament in tissue paper or a paper towel.
- Use egg cartons, plastic cups or the original ornament boxes to keep them separated.
- Lay the boxes flat in the tote, with heavier items at the bottom.
- Fill gaps with crumpled paper or a soft towel so nothing shifts.
Do not stack more than two layers, and never put heavy items on top of ornaments.
How do you pack lights and garlands?
Wrap string lights around a piece of cardboard or a hanger so they do not tangle, and tape or tie the ends. Coil garlands loosely, and pack extension cords in a labeled bag. Test lights before you pack them and toss any that no longer work.
What about trees and larger decor?
Artificial trees can go in their original box or be wrapped in plastic wrap and moved separately. Wreaths keep their shape best in a tote with lots of space, or in a wreath box. Yard inflatables should be deflated, dried and packed in a tote with the stakes and cords bagged.
How should you label holiday totes?
Write the holiday and the room on two sides of each tote: "Christmas — Living Room," "Halloween — Porch." If you are moving in the fall or winter, keep the current season's totes accessible so you can decorate in your new home without digging through the whole truck.
See tote packages by home size and book your delivery date.
View Residential PricingFrequently Asked Questions
How many totes do I need for holiday decorations?
Most homes need 4 to 8 totes for a few holidays, more if you have a large Christmas collection.
What is the best way to protect fragile ornaments?
Wrap each one individually, keep them in a compartmented box or egg carton, and place them in a tote with lots of padding.
Can I move a real Christmas tree?
It is not recommended. Real trees dry out and drop needles; buy a new one at your destination.
Questions about sizing, coverage, or what's included? Check our FAQ page or email info@nicetotesrental.com.