Over 32 million Americans moved in the last year. The majority of that number moved between May and September, which means winter is always a slow time when it comes to people packing up and moving. There are lots of reasons moving in winter doesn't appeal to most people. During the summer, the weather is more likely to play in your favour. The kids are out of school, driving conditions are safer, and your new home looks much better when it's not blanketed in snow. However, circumstances may compel you to consider moving in winter. That's why we've assembled 10 tips to help you make the best of winter moving.
1. BE FLEXIBLE
No matter how carefully you plan, the weather doesn't always play nice. If you're travelling over a mountain pass or going through particularly perilous conditions, it may be best to delay your move. You'll need to work with your movers for some flexibility on the date. Nothing is worth risking your safety!
2. INVEST IN WINTER GEAR
What if you find yourself stranded in adverse conditions? You don't need to be an Arctic explorer for that to happen, you could just have slid off the interstate into a snowbank. When that happens, having a stock of winter gloves, hats, and coats on hand can make a big difference. Even if nothing bad happens, having some gloves on hand when moving boxes in the cold really helps.
3. SET UP UTILITIES EARLY
If you're a veteran mover, you know how important early utility setup is. Otherwise, you could find yourself without power for a day or two. This can be deadly in winter, especially if there's inclement weather and you don't have heat. In order to avoid any hiccups, arrange for utilities to be turned on two days prior to your move-in date.
4. CLEAR IT OUT
When you move in or out, how are you going to navigate snowy streets and sidewalks? It can be a huge hazard if movers are trying to carry your couch down an ice-coated sidewalk. Put in the time to use a snowblower, shovels, and salt/sand to make conditions as safe as possible for both you and the movers.
5. COVER THE FLOORS
Tracking snow and salt in can wreak havoc on your floors. Whether it's the house you're moving out of or into, the damage can be irrevocable. Try laying down some rugs or towels that will protect your carpet as people go in and out. Winter moving advice boils down to one main tip: think ahead. Carpet protection film can be purchased at any home renovation store also the movers will provide 6 runners for stairs and hardwood to protect high traffic areas. Cardboard roll or drop sheets are also helpful.
6. THINK OF YOUR PETS
Moving in the winter is hard, but that doesn't mean your pets need to suffer. How do you plan to take care of them while strangers are tracking in and out of your home? For many people, winter moving is made much easier when they board their pets. It'll be great to reunite with them in your new home!
7. CHECK THE SCHEDULE
If you're wondering how to move in winter, considering snowplows is one of our top tips! Check their schedule to save yourself some time. That way, you won't be struggling through a snowbank on moving day.
8. PLAN AHEAD
In the summertime, you can work into the night because there is so much daylight for you to keep things moving. That's not the case in winter. You're working with shortened days, so plan accordingly.
9. KEEP WARM
Winter moving tips often don't tackle the real risk of hypothermia! This is a huge deal for you and your movers, depending on how brutal the weather is. Make sure you have a space heater, gloves, and warm beverages to offer.
10. HAVE A BACKUP PLAN
One of our best tips for moving in winter is to expect the unexpected. If you end up stranded or waiting out bad weather, make sure you have some money set aside for a hotel, or to change the moving date.
MOVING IN WINTER
If you're moving in winter, we're here to help! With a wealth of knowledge and experience, we can help you move. Contact us today to get more information on how we can help!