Winter is coming… or it’s already here! Often a good time to move, as for most moving companies it is off-season, so there schedule can be a little more open.  But for 39 out of 50 states winter means below freezing temperatures and lots of snow! So here are some of our best tips to help you navigate the season, so you can have a smooth move.

1.Book your dates & Confirm with your mover.

Often times the winter is a good time to book your move as it is off-season, and the schedule is more flexible. We still say find, and book your date at least 2-3 weeks in advance. Once you have your name on the calendar check in a week before to make sure everything on their end is still looking good, and start your packing process. Normally movers will give you a call, or text the day before to confirm all the details, and times. This gives you ample time to prepare, and make the day of your move less stressful for everyone!

2. Check the weather.

Keep your eye on the weather report for the day of your move. Especially in the winter, weather changes frequently, and you want to be as prepared as possible. If your worried that any impending weather will shut down roads or your movers, call the company, and let them know. They often have a plan in place for if your move needs to be rescheduled or re-routed. In the case of a blizzard it is better to delay then to push through.

3. Clear all Sidewalks, driveways, and streets.

Nothing can be more dangerous then carrying a couch, or a heavy piece of furniture in a pile of snow, or an icy sidewalk. Make sure that all pathways, and driveways that lead to the home are salted, shoveled, or snow blown. That way you can ensure the protection of the movers, as well as your furniture and delicate items.

4. Double pack your delicate items, and electronics.

Some items for example electronics, and fragile items become more brittle in the cold weather. By double packing the items you can trap as much heat as possible with the items. We also suggest that both for fragile items, and electronics you take them in your own vehicle. If you had your movers take them, and say they needed to stay in the truck overnight, they may have been more damaged by the freezing temperatures than you hoped for.

5. Protect your floors.

You want to make sure that your home stays clean, and all carpets or hardwood floors are protected. There will be people walking in, and out, and there may be snow, salt, and water that is tracked into your home that is definitely not wanted. To protect your floors, and carpets. You can grab a couple of cheap plastic tarps from the nearest hardware stores, and lay floor mats down at every outside door. You also can ask your moving company if they provide any floor protection, they often do, and will just add it as an extra materials charge.

6. Turn the heat off.

When you have movers coming, it may be a good idea to have your heat turned off. They will be going in and out and often doors will be left open. Your poor heater will be working so hard to keep up the heat, and your bill will go out dramatically as well. Your best bet is to turn the heat off for the day, and maybe get a space heater for one or two rooms. ( Tip: The bathroom is a great spot for one!)

7. Check the utilities at your new home.

Nothing is worse than having no heat or lights in the dead of winter. It is bad for the movers to move your furniture in the dark, and when you add the cold into the mix as well…No thank you! Make sure that all your utilities are on, and working before the start of your move. We recommend getting everything turned on about 2 days before your move.

8. Board your pets.

If you have any pets, cats or dogs, it may not be a good idea to have them running around while a bunch of new people are around dismantling, and moving furniture. Moving can be stressful on your pets, and if you followed tip 6, and turned the heat off, it may be worse. We recommend bring your fur baby to a friend’s home, or a kennel. Often if you decide to go the kennel route we recommend you make sure there are heated runs, and heated floors. Also there are one or two day discounts as well so make sure to ask!

 

9. Be flexible and stay on the side of caution.

Moving can already be stressful, and winter weather only adds to the possible complications. The movers can not control the weather, and are probably colder than you are. So please be flexible, if the roads are not save don’t risk your possessions, and the lives of your movers. A small delay may not be ideal in the moment, but they can overall be a better idea for everyone. The office normally has a back up plan for when things like this happen so it should not be to much of a problem to reschedule the other half of your move.

10. Tip well.

Moving companies don’t change there rates in the winter, so there are no rewards for your mover to be expecting. But having to deal with snow, ice, and wind can be very discouraging during the winter months. Thank them for coming out, and show your appreciation by giving them a good tip to reinforce your appreciation.

 

Moving in the winter has it’s pros, and it’s cons. Although it doesn’t have to be as hard as it sounds. With some planning, and preparation you can make it your ideal move despite the weather. Good Luck! And let us know how it goes!