Winter residential moves are not as common as those in the warmer spring, summer, or fall, but many people make them. Relocating during the winter can be challenging because of the unpredictable nature of winter weather, which includes snowfall, sleet, and ice. If you are facing a winter move, look at a few tips to help you navigate and stay safe despite the potential for bad weather.
1. Watch the weather forecast.
Winter weather can be unpredictable in many parts of the country, so it is advisable to take some precautions. Pay attention to the forecast. Your mover might want to reschedule if there is a significant snowfall or ice storm. Prepare to be flexible.
Moving can also be riskier during the winter months. Remove the snow from the driveways, porches, and sidewalks of your old and new homes using a snow shovel or a snow blower in preparation for the move. Utilize salt and sand to enhance traction. Also, make sure there is a place for the moving truck to park that will not obstruct any snow routes.
2. Plan for the unexpected in advance.
While you can make plans based on weather forecasts, the winter is still less predictable. Unfortunately, an unexpected snowstorm or freezing rain can throw you behind schedule. For this reason, leave a little wiggle room in your moving timeline for unforeseen weather events. For example, if you wait until the last minute to gather packing supplies and a winter storm develops, this could be problematic. However, if you have a few days extra penciled into your schedule, the setback may not be a big deal.
3. Ask your chosen moving company about what to expect.
If you have already hired a moving company, be sure to touch base with them to find out what happens in the event of inclement weather. Most moving companies will have plans for what happens during a snowstorm or winter weather event. For instance, they may alert customers if they have to reschedule and adjust the scheduled move to another date and time. The moving company will also be able to tell you what weather they can continue to function with and what may spur a rescheduled move.
4. Choose safety over speed.
Staying safe during a move becomes even more difficult during inclement winter weather. Over 150,000 auto accidents happen every winter due to ice-covered or slippery road conditions. When inclement weather settles in, keep your safety a top priority. If you have to adjust your moving plans, drive more slowly, or otherwise adjust plans to stay safe, doing so is far more important than staying on schedule.
5. Dress properly.
Even if you hire professional movers, you may still be exposed to the weather. Layer your clothes to adapt to the changing temperatures as you move from room to room and outside. In your first-day essentials box, put extra blankets and warm clothes in case the ones you are wearing get wet or something goes wrong on the way to your new home.
6. Prepare your car.
Before moving, ensure your car is in good shape and get winter gear like ice scrapers, tire chains, and jumper cables. In case you become stranded, store food, water, a blanket, a hat, and an extra pair of gloves in your car.
Allow for potential detours when you plan your winter route. Remember to allow yourself extra time to reach your destination as well. If you are meeting the movers at your new home, contact them in case the schedule changes.
7. Verify utilities are on.
Before you move, ensure you have had the utilities turned on at your new home. You do not want to spend your first night in a cold, dark house. Also, plan to keep your old home’s utilities on for at least a few days after you move out. Because of the winter weather, you may have to delay your relocation.
Reach Out to Professional Movers for Your Winter Move
Contact a residential moving company for assistance with your winter move. We can help you get started with a no-obligation moving quote.