9 Essential Tips for Moving in Winter
Every relocation is challenging, but moving in winter can be particularly demanding. Not only is the temperature low and therefore unpleasant, but these conditions can create various obstacles. Yet again, relocating offseason also comes with its share of advantages, such as affordability. So, how complicated is it to relocate during the coldest months of the year?
Even though it probably seems overwhelming at first, even winter relocation can go smoothly when you plan adequately. It is quite different from moving in the summer, but do know that it does not have to be different in a bad way. It might not seem that way, but perhaps winter turns out to be the best time to move long distance. We are here to provide you with some useful tips on how to do this right. Keep the following tips in mind to ensure a smooth and easy relocation no matter the temperature outside.
#1 Start Early in the Morning
Considering that the daytime is rather short during this period of the year, one of the first moving day tips is to start as early as possible. Naturally, you don’t want to get stuck with loading your stuff when it gets dark. Plus, the temperatures go even lower after sunset.
#2 Protect the Inside of the House When Moving in Winter
This cold period of the year brings snow, sleet, or rain at the very least. Now imagine the movers and you and your family members going back and forth all day. You can already see the floors being completely ruined, tight? You can stop that from happening if you use cardboard or plastic sheeting to protect the inside of your house.
#3 Have Hot Drinks on Hand to Stay Warm
You might be planning to hire movers or ask your friends to give you a hand. Either way, you’ll need to provide some hot drinks to keep them and yourself warm. Some tea, coffee, hot chocolate, or hot apple cider will do the trick.
#4 Wear Waterproof Boots and Multiple Layers
When relocating during this time of the year, it is crucial that you dress adequately. The golden rule is to wear multiple layers and waterproof boots, and chilly conditions can’t do you any harm. It would also be good to have other warm clothing items, like a warm hat, scarf, and a pair of gloves.
#5 Keep the Walkways Clear
Safety should be your primary concern. To avoid causing some damage to any of your belongings or harm to yourself and the movers, make sure you clear all the walkways. Only then can you start carrying out the stuff and loading the truck.
#6 Get Your Car Serviced
Another crucial thing to do to ensure extra safety is to get your car serviced if you’re planning to drive to the future address. If you wouldn’t like to risk driving the car, you can always contact the members of a professional moving company to provide you with auto transport and car shipping services. And as for your stuff, rent a truck or hire professional moving services to deliver your belongings to the given address.
#7 Don’t Forget to Check the Weather Before You Get Going
Even though you’ve been checking the forecast for days and even weeks before the relocation date, things might change in the blink of an eye. Be on the lookout for any weather changes that could affect your move.
#8 Be Sure You Have Heat and Lights in the New House
To avoid an unpleasant first day in your future home, one of the crucial things to do is to transfer all the utilities well in advance. Spending the first day without heat and lights in winter is not really a pleasant experience, to put it mildly.
#9 Have a Backup Plan
Getting organized to move is key to a successful relocation. We assume you would like everything to go perfectly, and you would rather not think about the worst-case scenario. But whether you like it or not, it is advisable that you do. Have a backup plan just in case something goes wrong, and things change.
Make Sure You Plan an Alternative Route to Your New Home
What if the road you wanted to take to your new home is snowed in? You don’t have to put off your move if you prepare for such an event in advance. That’s why it’s a good idea to talk to the local authorities and find out about other highways that could take you where needed. Whether you’re moving from a small town to a big city or another way round, think of an alternative route to reach your future home.
Bring an Emergency Contact List
Even if something goes wrong along the way, it won’t be so big of an issue if you have someone to give you a hand. Thus, you need to bring an emergency contact list, including highway patrol, roadside assistance, and a number for reports on highway conditions.
Bring All the Necessary Equipment to Be Safe on the Road to the New City
You never know what kind of troubles inclement weather can cause, so don’t go anywhere without proper equipment. You might need to use a snow shovel, emergency blanket, salt or kitty litter, a gas can, and extra windshield fluid.
Be Prepared for Delays
Even though it’s good to have a plan, it is also necessary that you stay flexible. Delays are common when relocating during cold weather, so be prepared for changes in your schedule.
Summary
As you can see, even winter relocation can be a pleasant adventure when handled properly, with or without the help of professional movers with packing services. Whether you’re moving to a city alone or with your family, you should know that it is possible to enjoy the trip to the new home. Remember these tips to make sure you enjoy yours.
