Winter is the least preferred season for moving. Carrying household items through snow and rain can be difficult but relocating during winter also comes with clear advantages. Since fewer people choose to move at this time, moving companies tend to be more flexible with both schedules and pricing. During the summer months, movers are usually fully booked, while winter is much less busy. Because of this, homeowners often spend less money and have more freedom to pick a moving date that works best for them.
Planning a move in winter can feel overwhelming because of the weather but with proper preparation, you can pack, load and transport your belongings just as safely and smoothly as during any other season. By following these winter moving tips, you can manage the process easily and achieve a successful relocation.
Find a Warm Place for Children and Pets
With doors opening constantly while movers carry boxes in and out, cold air will flow through the home for most of the day. Most heating systems struggle to keep the space warm in these conditions and running them nonstop can lead to high energy bills.
The cold can be especially tough on children and pets, since they are more sensitive to low temperatures. A good option is to have a friend or family member take care of them while your items are being packed, loaded and arranged. This helps keep them warm, safe and comfortable while you focus on handling your furniture and belongings.
Keep an Eye on the Forecast
A winter move requires extra attention to the weather. Rain, snow or even ice storms can appear suddenly and disrupt your plans. When you have advance notice, changing your moving schedule is usually easy. Moving companies are often more flexible during winter. Check the weather forecast in the days before your move so you have enough time to adjust routes, dates or timing if needed.
Clear Sidewalks & Walkways
Snow and ice can cause slips and falls. To avoid accidents, clear snow from your stairs and walkways and spread salt on them to stop ice from forming. Make sure to treat the sidewalks outside your home as well, so there is a safe, clear path from your front door to the moving truck.
Protect Your Floors
It’s hard to clean your shoes properly while carrying heavy boxes. During a winter move, snow and moisture are likely to be brought into your home. To keep floors dry, place tarps or plastic sheets in areas with heavy foot traffic. This helps reduce cleanup, lowers the risk of slipping and protects your floors from water damage.
Schedule Your Utilities
Gas, water and electricity are essential in any home, especially during winter. Contact your new utility providers at least a week before moving to set up service. To avoid arriving at a cold, dark house, have utilities turned on at your new place the day before you move in and disconnect services at your old home the day after you leave.
Stock Your Car with Winter Gear
Moving during winter requires you to be ready for changing weather conditions. To stay prepared, keep a winter kit in your car at all times. Depending on the situation, this kit should include:
- Extra blankets
- Warm clothes (sweater, scarves, gloves, hats, jacket, etc.)
- Ice scraper
- Snow Chains
- Shovel
- Rock salt
- Plastic tarps or sheeting
- Bottled water
- Snack foods (chips, crackers, cookies, etc.)
A winter kit should have everything you need to stay warm, drive safely and clear a safe path into your new home. Before unloading the moving truck, you may need to clear snow and ice and place clean tarps over your floors.
Prepare Your Car
Car problems can cause major delays, especially during a winter move. Before moving day, have your vehicle serviced to make sure it’s ready for cold weather driving. Along with regular maintenance, ask the mechanic to:
- Check fluid levels, especially antifreeze
- Install snow tires if needed
- Test the heater and fan
- Check the defroster and windshield wipers
- Inspect headlights, tail lights and turn signals
Protect Your Belongings
Cold weather can make fragile items more likely to break, so wrap them with extra bubble wrap and packing paper. Pad your boxes with towels or styrofoam peanuts for added protection. To avoid water damage, use plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes when possible. If you must use cardboard boxes, add a plastic lining inside to keep moisture out. Furniture should be covered with sheets, blankets or plastic to protect it from snow or rain.
Start Early
Daylight is limited during winter, with some areas getting as little as eight hours of sunlight. To make the best use of the day, plan to start your move early in the morning. Beginning sooner makes it easier to load and unload everything safely.
Create a Warm Room
Even without snow, winter moves can still be very cold. While gloves and jackets help, it’s best to set up a room where people can warm up. A space heater, a few blankets and hot drinks are usually enough. You can use a slow cooker to keep hot chocolate or cider ready for anyone who needs it.
Keep Plenty of Towels on Hand
Tarps and blankets help reduce moisture but they can’t stop it completely. Towels may not seem important for moving but they are very useful when dealing with snow or rain. Instead of packing them away, keep towels in your car or another easy-to-reach place so you can quickly dry floors, furniture or wet areas when needed.
Plan an Alternate Route
Winter road conditions can change quickly. Even if the weather looks fine when you start your move, it may not stay that way for the entire trip. Plan an alternate route in advance so unexpected road issues don’t delay your arrival at your new home.
Help for Homeowners Moving in Winter
STI has over 21 years of experience handling winter moves. No matter the weather conditions, our skilled moving teams have the right tools, training and support to move you safely into your new home. We make sure your belongings are carefully packed, loaded and transported without damage. By working closely with our customers, we address every concern to ensure the move is as smooth, fast and stress-free as possible. Call today to get your free quote!
