Tips for a Safe Winter Move

Moving from one home to another is overwhelming, but moving in winter adds another layer of complexity to the mix. Dealing with slippery sidewalks, freezing temperatures, falling snow, slush, and icy streets makes moving just that much more complicated.

But there’s some good news, too — moving in winter tends to cost less. Most people tend to move in the summer, so you may be able to score a better deal in the winter off-season.

And in more good news, working with a professional moving company will ease your move, regardless of the chill in the air. Your movers will know how to deal with ice, snow, and other cold-season obstacles.

Here are steps you can take to make your winter move more chill than a thrill.

Keep Winter Necessities Handy

As you pack your house, remember to leave out your winter supplies. Keep your ice scraper, shovel, salt, and some winter clothes and accessories with you if winter weather becomes a factor on your moving day.

Pack for Protection

Use boxes and containers that can hold their weight so bottoms don’t break and spill your belongings into the slush and snow.

Certain items must be packed with extra care when it’s cold outside. For instance, glass and plastic items can grow brittle in freezing temperatures, making them more susceptible to breaking or cracking. Use extra layers of protective bubble wrap, newspaper, or moving blankets when packing fragile glass and other breakable items.

Wooden items, antiques, and furniture held together with wood glue may also be prone to damage in cold temperatures. Pack these items with care to keep frost and moisture away from delicate surfaces.

Finally, pay special attention to electronics. Many are easily damaged by cold, and condensation can cause problems. Try to pack all your electronics together in just a couple of boxes. If possible, take these boxes with you in your (warm) car, rather than relegate them to a cold moving truck.

Cold Weather Kit

Speaking of items to take in your car, be sure to pack a winter kit that will travel with you. Start with a basic winter survival kit that contains jumper cables, flashlights, flares, and other emergency supplies.

Now add a few moving-specific items to travel with you on moving day. You’ll want to pack a set of extra blankets, gloves, hats, boots, and coats to make sure you can access them at any time during the move. When temperatures are freezing, you don’t want to have to search through all your boxes to find warm gear at your new home.

Protect the Floors

Since you live somewhere that experiences cold weather; you already know the havoc that snow, ice, and slush can wreak on your floors. On moving day, multiply that by several degrees, as people will be tracking in and out of the house all day long.

Protect your floors by laying down rugs, cardboard, or plastic tarps before the big day. Choosing a non-slip option with a grippy bottom will help prevent slips and falls while shielding carpets and wood floors from damage. Consult with your moving company to see what they provide to protect your floors.

Clear the Way

Ensure that the parking, staging, and walking areas around your home are clear of snow and ice. This may mean shoveling, plowing, or spreading gravel or salt.

This will help keep you and your movers safe. Carrying heavy items on slippery ice isn’t a great combo, so keeping the area dry and clear is vital.

Remember that you will need to make sure the paths are clear at your new home too!

Winter Moves Made Easier 

Winter conditions add a layer of complication to moving day. These tips will help clear the path to a smooth, stress-free move, no matter how cold it gets outside.

We have experience moving in all kinds of conditions. We can simplify your move. Contact us today for a quote.