Moving can be stressful at any time of year, but winter brings unique challenges. Snowflakes are falling, and so are your moving boxes! Preparing for a winter move may require some extra planning and precautions between unpredictable weather, slick sidewalks, and the cold itself. With these seven tips, you can navigate the cold and chaos, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.
1. Check the Weather & Plan Ahead
Winter weather can be unpredictable, so stay updated on the forecast. Ideally, schedule your moving day during a calm weather window, but also have a backup plan in case of snow or ice. Keep an eye on local road conditions, and be ready to communicate with your moving company if rescheduling becomes necessary.
Pro Tip: Make extra time for each part of the moving process. Winter moves can take longer due to traffic delays, icy roads, and slower loading times.
2. Prepare Your Entryways and Walkways
Snow, ice, and mud can make surfaces slippery. Clear all pathways, driveways, and sidewalks at your current home and the one you’re moving into to ensure they’re safe for movers, family, and friends. Lay down salt or sand on icy spots to prevent falls, and place extra towels or floor mats inside both homes for everyone to wipe their boots.
Pro Tip: Lay down cardboard or plastic sheeting on your floors to protect them from mud, water, and salt stains as people move in and out.
3. Dress in Layers
Moving requires a lot of physical activity, so dressing in layers will allow you to adjust as you go. A thick coat might keep you warm initially, but it can quickly become too hot when carrying boxes. Wear moisture-wicking materials close to your body to keep sweat from making you cold when standing still.
Pro Tip: Wear grippy gloves to keep your hands warm and maintain a good hold on boxes or furniture if you encounter slick spots.
4. Prep Your Vehicle for the Cold
If you’re using your car or a rental truck, be sure to winterize it! Ensure your tires are in good condition for snowy or icy roads, and check your vehicle’s oil, windshield wiper fluid, and battery to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Keep an emergency kit in your car, especially if you are moving a long distance.
Pro Tip: Store a shovel, snow brush, ice scraper, and a bag of sand or kitty litter in your vehicle. These can help you get unstuck if you encounter any icy patches on the road.
5. Protect Your Belongings from the Cold
Extreme temperatures can damage sensitive items, especially electronics, batteries, and liquids. Wrap electronics in blankets to provide insulation, and move them in a heated vehicle if possible. For fragile items that might be affected by the cold, pack them last and bring them inside first at your new place.
Pro Tip: Avoid packing liquids like cleaning products or toiletries in your moving truck. They can freeze and expand, causing leaks or damage to other items.
6. Start the Heating at Your New Place
No one wants to unpack in a freezing house. Get to your new home early to turn up the heat. This way, the space will be comfortable when you and your movers arrive, and any delicate items can start warming up as soon as they’re unloaded.
Pro Tip: Place space heaters strategically around the home to help it warm up faster, but always be careful not to place them near flammable materials.
7. Stay Safe and Take Your Time
Safety should be your top priority. Ice, snow, and cold temperatures can make lifting and carrying heavy objects more dangerous than usual, so work slowly and cautiously. Use good lifting techniques and ask for help when needed.
Pro Tip: Take regular breaks to warm up indoors, hydrate, and eat a snack. Even though it’s cold, you’ll still be burning plenty of calories and losing water, so staying fueled and hydrated is important.
While moving during winter can be a bit more complicated, it’s completely doable with extra preparation and a few cold-weather tips. Plan, protect yourself and your belongings and embrace the season for what it is. A smooth move will have you cozy in your new home before you know it!
