6 Tips for Moving During Winter Months

Moving to a new place at any time of the year can be challenging. However, the process can get tougher and more stressful when you need to schedule it during the winter months. And even if winter can be the perfect time to relocate, it’s essential to be aware of the possible challenges that you might have to deal with along the way. From cold temperatures to piles of snow on the ground, you need to be prepared as much as possible.

Continue reading this article to learn a few tips for moving during the winter months and make the transition as stress-free as possible.

1. Make Sure the Sidewalks and Driveway are Clear From Snow and Ice

When moving during winter months, your safety and that of your family should be your top priority. Because of this, it’s essential to clear the sidewalks and driveway of snow and ice on the day of your relocation. Even if you have professionals who will assist you, be sure that everyone involved is safe against possible accidents and injuries. Remember, slippery paths and roads can be hazardous, especially if you’re carrying heavy boxes and big furniture.

2. Dress Appropriately

Because of the cold temperatures, wearing appropriate clothes and shoes during a winter move is essential. However, you should also realize that relocating during the cold months doesn’t necessarily mean using the thickest clothes you have. Ideally, what you need to do is to use proper layers of clothing, so it’ll be easy for you to take some clothes off when you get hot while packing up your boxes. Also, you shouldn’t forget to wear gloves and winter hats to protect yourself from the cold. Lastly, be sure to wear the best pair of winter shoes that can offer comfort and adequate traction while walking back and forth into your home.

3. Take Care of Your Professional Movers

Again, dealing with a winter move isn’t easy, which is why it’s best to seek professional help for all the things that need to be done. They’re experienced with winter relocation, so they’re more than equipped to handle the challenges that might arise. And since winter moving takes a lot of work, it’s a good idea to thank them for all the services they’ve rendered. You can do this by preparing a pot of hot tea or coffee during their breaks or tipping them with some money. However, the question of how much to tip movers depends on you and most probably the type and timing of your relocation.

4. Safeguard Your Belongings From the Weather

When you’re planning a winter move, you need to think about how you’re going to pack your belongings to safeguard them from the cold temperature. Generally, breakable and fragile items such as glass and dishware are susceptible to cracks and breakage if the temperature shifts quickly. To prevent this from happening, you should double-wrap your items in a thick cloth to keep them warm even if they’re placed in a cold container.

5. Keep Monitoring the Weather

In order to make your winter relocation as smooth as possible, you should keep checking the weather updates every week until the moving day. If you’re worried about the extreme cold weather, don’t forget to keep an eye on it by knowing whether the ice or snow is starting to shut down the roads. If this is the case, call the movers and inform them about the problem. For instance, most professionals like NYC movers know very well how to handle some issues associated with winter moving.

6. Create a Backup Plan for Delays

When you’re moving in the winter, you might not be able to take advantage of extra hours of daylight. This is probably not an ideal situation for you and your movers. With fewer hours of daylight, your move might take more than one day to complete. For that reason, it’s best to plan for delays and be realistic with your expectations. If possible, try to be flexible in case your move needs to be rescheduled because of the cold weather.

With the tips mentioned above, moving during the colder months doesn’t need to be as tricky as it appears. As long as you plan and prepare for the transition, you can reduce the stress and make the process as hassle-free as possible. 

Have you ever had to relocate during the winter months?

Do you use professional movers when you move?

See ya later,

Kimberly