While it’s true that most people choose to move in the warmer months, with 13.9% of moves in 2016 occurring in June, relocating during the winter isn’t as bad as it seems. In fact, there are a few great benefits to moving during the winter — you often get lower rates when hiring local movers, you have more flexibility with your moving date and time, and your belongings won’t get damaged in the sweltering heat. But with that being said, relocating in the cold does have its challenges. So to help you survive a winter move, here are a few great tips.
Clear pathways ahead of time: One of the most important things you can do when moving during the winter is ensuring any pathways are clear of snow. Your driveway and sidewalk should be shoveled and even salted if possible. Not only that, but the road should be as clear as possible. If plows have piled snow up in front of your driveway, try to move it to the best of your abilities so the moving van can have a proper place to park and unload. Overall, you need to make sure any area where you or your local movers will be walking or driving is clear and safe.
Bring spare towels and blankets: With the weather often being unpredictable, it’s important to be prepared for snow or rain, even if the forecast doesn’t call for it. This is why you should travel with extra towels, blankets, and even sheets or tarps. This way, if it is raining or snowing, you can have something to cover your belongings as they’re being moved to and from the truck. You should coordinate with your moving company to know if they have items they can cover your belongings with too.
Prepare to warm up: While you may not want your heat on due to the fact that the door is going to be open during the move, it is important to keep yourself, and your movers, warm. So consider keeping a closed-off area in your home, like the bathroom, heated for a place to warm up in. Also, always have extra gloves on hand — gloves are a must-have during a winter move and they can easily get wet and cold. And lastly, consider getting some coffee, hot chocolate, or other hot drink going in your new house to keep everyone toasty throughout the moving day.
Moving during the winter isn’t the easiest thing to do, but with reliable movers and a little preparation, it will be just fine. So keep these tips in mind, coordinate with your local movers, and prepare for the worst to ensure your move goes smoothly.
