Are you planning on moving in winter? If so, here’s everything you need to know before relocating to your new place during the winter months.
Moving can be a stressful ordeal during any time of year. But with our annual snowfall ranging from 11 to 19 inches, moving in the winter can bring its own special challenges.
Delayed schedules, safety issues, and the entire comfort factor can all be consequences of Old Man Winter… but only if we let him.
There are several things you can do to make moving in the wintertime much easier and less stressful! Let’s look at some tips you need to know.
Flexibility Is Key
When the weather is unpredictable, being flexible with your time is the best way to deal. That way, if a winter storm should blow in, it won’t get the better of your move.
Allow for extra drive time on snow-covered streets. Have your car serviced before the move to make sure everything is in working order. And have cold weather essentials in your car and moving truck, along with a list of contact phone numbers.
And the wintertime means you have fewer daylight hours to work with. Consider starting your move earlier in the day or spread out over a couple of days so you’re not rushed.
But if the worst should happen and you find conditions aren’t safe to move, have a backup plan ready. Jake’s Moving & Storage offers 24/7 service to meet the need of changing schedules. Plus, our movers are familiar with VA, DC, and MD areas, so winter weather is nothing new to us!
Safety First
Safety is obviously the biggest factor when moving in the winter. Snow and ice may be pretty to look at, but not so pretty to walk on. Keeping the walkways at both your old place and the new will ensure everyone stays on steady feet.
Before you do anything, clear off all snow on porches, pathways, driveways, and sidewalks. Then, sprinkle salt to melt down any remaining ice.
It’s challenging enough to walk on slippery surfaces with nothing in hand, let alone carrying heavy boxes. And when your hands are full, you may not be able to catch yourself should you fall.
Make Sure Your New Home Is Cold Weather Ready
It’s cold enough outside. Don’t let the chill follow you into your new place.
Ensure that you turn on all your new utilities. This includes your gas, electricity, and water. Contact the utility companies at least a week before you move.
If you’re able, make sure your appliances and heating system are in good working order in advance. Give plenty of time for repairs to take place if needed.
Then have the heat running in time for moving day. That way you’ll have a toasty warm place to work and unpack your boxes.
And on that same note, make sure you leave the utilities on in your old place until you’re completely moved out. You don’t want it cold in there, plus you may need to come back and clean.
Protect Your Floors
With all the ice and snow comes the winter mess you can carry in on your feet. And that salt, slush, and dirty snow can wreak havoc on your floors.
Protect your new floors by laying down a barrier. You can use secured tarps or flattened cardboard boxes. Just make sure it’s not slippery or will cause a tripping hazard.
And don’t forget to do this at your old place as well. While it’s easy to think about protecting the floors at your new home, you don’t want to ruin floors for the people moving into your old house.
Dress in Layers
Moving in winter may seem like an uncomfortable idea. But in reality, it gives you lots of flexibility in your clothing!
Dressing in warm layers is the perfect way to keep yourself warm, or cool, enough in all aspects of your move.
Take off a layer or two when you start to get too warm. Add more layers when break time brings back the chill. And you can add or remove hats, gloves, and scarves as needed.
But above all less, having comfortable shoes with good traction is super important. You don’t want to have slick soles and slip on ice while carrying heavy items.
Pack Yourself an Essentials Box
The last thing you’ll want to deal with after a long, cold move is hunting down your everyday essentials. Having the items you need right away spread throughout 20 different boxes is a headache you can avoid by packing an essentials box.
First, think of everything you’ll need within the first 24 to 48 hours after your move. You can make it easier by writing a list out ahead of time as you go along.
Then choose one or two boxes as your essentials box and clearly label them. Toothbrushes, medications, plates and utensils, the coffee pot… they can all go into a box together.
And since it’s cold out, take the chill off by including blankets, hot cocoa, fire logs, and anything else you’ll want to warm up with.
Weather-Proof Your Packing
Sudden changes in temperature can cause damage to your valuables. Items such as plates, glassware, and electronics are particularly susceptible to breakage when moved from the warmth of your home and out into the cold.
To decrease the risks, double wrap your valuables in thick blankets. Leave these items as the last ones you move into the truck and the first ones you unload into your new place. This will cut the amount of time it’s left out in the cold.
Also, consider transporting your valuables in your car instead of the back of a truck. The heat in your car will help keep your items protected.
Don’t Let Old Man Winter Snow on Your Moving in Parade
You don’t have to deal with the wintertime moving blues. With these tips and some careful planning, moving in the winter time will be the easier, less stressful process you deserve.
Need help with your move during the winter or any time of year? Contact us today to get a free quote! You can even get last minute movers.
Jake’s Moving & Service is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured family-owned business you can trust.
