This guide will cover the steps you need to take when preparing for an international winter relocation.
Whether moving to a neighbouring home or across the US, these steps will help ensure you’re ready for a move despite the cold weather. We break down the challenges and help you understand why you may need the pros to get the job done.
Snow Snow, Go Away Come Again Another Day
So you’ve decided to make moves, but you see that January in the North East is one big blur of snow. No worries, Pricing Van Lines is here for you no matter the task with the right team.
Moving during the winter months comes with it’s own unique set of challenges. From unpredictable weather to shorter daylight time, it can be trickier to succeed. With the right planning and team, you can be sure that your relocation goes smoothly despite the cold and snow.
Here’s our personalized winter checklist of tasks to tackle when moving during winter. Don’t forget the hot cocoa with marshmallows.
1. Prepare for Cold Weather As You Should
Winter weather is always unpredictable, and moving on icy, snowy, or rainy days requires extra prep to succeed and avoid injuries. Here’s some of our mover’s tips to prepare:
- Check the Forecast: Keep an eye on the weather leading up to your moving day. This will help you plan for any snowstorms or extreme cold that could delay your move. Usually if weather is insane and dangerous the moving company will inform you to change days.
- Winter-Proof Your Supplies: Know that your moving boxes and furniture are protected from rain or snow by waterproofing ahead. Waterproof covers for your belongings, like moving blankets or plastic wraps will protect them from moisture and freezing temperatures.
- Clear Pathways: Ice and snow can make moving dangerous, so be sure to shovel and salt driveways, sidewalks, and any entryways at your old and new homes. This will help prevent falls.
- Utilites: Make sure you handle your utilities ahead of time so you will have enough heat to leave blasting on for your old place as well as having the electric turned on in your new place. There is nothing worse than moving in the cold without a heater, so plan ahead and pay your bills so that you can avoid this.
2. Dress For the Weather
Layering your outfit is key when its cold out but especially when moving in winter. It’s easy to overheat while lifting heavy boxes and furniture, but staying warm during outdoor moments is equally important. Dress smart not fashionable for moving day. Be sure to keep these piece from being packed up.
- Wear Warm Layers: To stay comfortable throughout the day, opt for thermal underwear, a water-resistant coat, gloves, and waterproof boots with good traction. Think that you will get hot when lifting bags and boxes so you will want sports clothes that wick away teh moisture on the bottom but yet warm and waterproof clothes on the outside to be able to stand outside by the truck during the move.
- Pack an Emergency Bag: Bring extra gloves, socks, and a hat if you get wet or cold. Also, pack snacks and water to keep your energy up. Keep a thermos unpacked to keep hot tea on tap. Keep all your important documents and papers here as well as an extra charger for your phone and change of clothes.
3. Plan Your Move for Daylight Hours
In winter, daylight hours are shorter, so start your move as early as possible to take advantage of the daylight.
- Start Early: Begin the move at the first light of day to avoid being caught moving in the dark. Moving can take longer than expected so get up bright and early.
- Proper Lighting: If your move extends into the night, ensure you have good lighting at both locations to prevent accidents or losing items.
4. Hire Professional Movers
While DIY moves are possible in winter, hiring professional movers is the better option, especially if you’re not used to dealing with snowy weather. There are many reasons why you should leave things to the pros but here are just a few:
- Experienced Movers: Professional moving companies like Pricing Van Lines have are trained to handle winter conditions and can adjust their schedule or strategy if the weather changes. Their over 20 years of experience pay off when you see them moving in the winter.
- Ask About Winter Rates: Some movers offer discounted rates during the winter months, so it’s worth asking to save a few dollars.
5. Winter-Proof Your Car
If you’re moving your things on your own, or simply bringing along your car, make sure it is winter-ready:
- Check Tire Traction: If you’ll be driving through icy roads, check your car has snow tires or chains. Double check the air in your tires as well before you set off on any long drive as a rule of thumb.
- Prepare Emergency Kits: Pack your car with emergency supplies, there should be blankets, a flashlight, snacks, water, a first aid kit, and an ice scraper. Have enough supplies to survive in case you get stuck on the side of the road.
- Keep Gas Tank Full: Cold temperatures can cause fuel lines to freeze. Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent any issues. You don’t want to be stuck without enough gas to turn on your heater on the side of the road.
6. Protect Your New Home
Before moving into your new home, consider how the winter weather might impact the condition of the house:
- Check the Heating System: Check the heating system works and can handle the cold temperatures as it should. It needs to be strong enough to heat cold walls. Make sure that you can feel the home really heating up quickly to ensure it is efficient.
- Seal Gaps: Check windows and doors for holes to help conserve heat and keep your new home energy-efficient during the winter months. Silicon is your best friend.
- Prevent Ice Build-Up: Ensure the gutters and spouts are clear of snow and ice to prevent water damage or blockage.
Wrapping Up That Scarf
Moving during the winter requires extra planning, but with the proper preparation, it’s really manageable. As long as you wear the right clothing, protecting your things from the cold, and keep safe on icy surfaces, you can navigate this winter move without stress.
Whether you hire movers from Pricing Van Lines and leave it to the pros or tackle the move yourself, be sure to plan ahead and think about the potential challenges that winter weather can bring. Even during the coldest months of the year you can makes moves to cross the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I protect my furniture from the temps during a frozen winter move?
To protect your furniture from cold weather, use proper moving blankets and plastic wraps to insulate and protect against freezing temperatures. Make sure none of your furniture gets wet and freezes over. Avoid leaving items exposed to the weather outside for extended time periods.
Should I move in winter or wait for warmer weather?
While winter moving has challenges, it is way more cheap and more convenient, as affordable moving companies always want to fill their gaps and have lower rates during the off-season. If you’re prepared for the cold, there’s no reason to delay your move if it fits your schedule.
How can I avoid accidents while moving in winter?
The biggest issue is usually falling or slipping on wet surfaces from rain or snow, so wear shoes with non-slip soles with traction and be aware when moving heavy things on icy surfaces. Clear all walkways of snow and ice before starting your move and use common sense.
How can I deal with potential snowstorms on my moving day?
If a snowstorm is expected right on your big day don’t freak out. Monitor the forecast and consider adjusting your moving schedule if it is possible. Moving companies won’t take the risk of coming out if there is a big storm that endangers their workers so don’t worry they will reschedule for you if there’s a big snow coming your way.
Do I need to hire a professional moving company in winter?
While hiring professionals is not a must, it’s extremely recommended especially during the winter thanks to their experience in handling tough weather conditions. The pros will also bring the right equipment to manage the challenges of winter moving. They have all the winter blankers and gear to protect your home goods, so shovel out the funds for this and don’t regret later.
