Umzüge

Umzüge is a German plural noun that denotes several related types of movement. The most common usage refers to moving from one residence to another, i.e., a house move. The term also describes public processions or parades, for example carnival parades, as well as historical or logistical movements of people or goods.

Etymology: It comes from the verb umziehen ('to move' or 'to relocate'), combining um- (“around” or “change”) with ziehen ('to pull' or 'to move').

Household move: A house move typically involves planning, budgeting, and coordination. People hire moving companies or rent trucks, pack items in boxes, label them, and prepare furniture for disassembly. Insurance and temporary storage may be used. On moving day, loading, transport, unloading, and unpacking take place. Efficiency tips include making an inventory, sorting belongings, and scheduling utilities transfers.

Processions: Umzüge as parades occur in many cultural contexts, such as religious processions or festive public events. They involve routes, marshals, bands, floats, and spectators. Organizers obtain permissions, coordinate road closures and safety measures, and manage crowd control.

Administrative aspects: In German-speaking countries, a change of residence typically requires updating official registration and notifying institutions such as banks and employers. The new address is registered with local authorities under terms such as Ummeldung or Anmeldung, depending on jurisdiction. The term Umzug is commonly used to describe the relocation itself rather than the administrative steps, which are sometimes referred to as a address change following a move.