Don’t worry about moving during winter. In fact, a winter move has two major benefits over a summer move because fewer people tend to move during the winter months, including:
- You could potentially get a lower rate than a summer peak moving season move.
- You have a better chance of getting the exact dates you want.
To help make your winter move as stress-free as possible, here are some tips based on years of moving experience.
- Be flexible with the weather. Winter weather can be inconsistent. If the arrival of a large storm is forecasted for your scheduled move date, talk to your moving company about the best way to proceed. This might include adjusting dates.
- Schedule an early start. In the winter, the days are shorter. You can maximize the available daylight hours with an early start. Because the days are shorter, understand that a move that you might expect to take one day, may take two.
- Be prepared for moving out. More than just having your belongings packed, make sure your home is ready:
- Driveways, sidewalks, and walkways must be clear of snow and ice so the movers have the room they need to do their job efficiently and safely. Confirm that there is parking available for the moving truck.
- Your floors need to be protected from the melting snow, ice, and mud that may be tracked in. Most reputable movers will put down floor protection as standard practice. Double check to make sure that your moving company has planned for this.
- Be prepared for moving in. Check on your new home to make sure it is ready:
- All utilities should be turned on (electric, gas, water, etc.) and functioning properly. Consider turning on the heat a day or two before the move so your new home is warm for move in day.
- Driveways, sidewalks, and walkways must be clear of snow and ice. Confirm that there is parking available for the moving truck.
- Your floors need to be protected from the melting snow, ice, and mud that may be tracked in.
- If your new home is too far away for you to easily prep for move-in, your agent or property manager should be able to help you.
- Plan the route to your new home. Winter weather could cause traffic to move slower, so be flexible in your travel plans.
- Allow for longer travel times.
- Check the weather and road conditions to make sure roads are open and passable.
- Investigate the locations of overnight accommodations along the way in case you need to stop.
- Get your car ready for the trip. It is important that you are there for move-in day.
- Make sure your car is winterized (fluids, tires, brakes, etc.).
- Bring winter weather supplies, such as a snow shovel, an emergency blanket, and a gas can.
- Consider a membership in a roadside assistance service.
- Work with a professional moving company for a positive outcome. Experience is critical for a winter move that is timely and safe for your possessions and all the people involved, so be sure to choose the right company for you.
- Be a good boss. You are depending on your moving team to properly deal with moving in winter weather. Some hot beverages can go along way towards making your crew comfortable during a break. They will be most appreciative.
- Follow the plan. Beyond the winter weather, follow a checklist for everything you should do for any move in any season, including:
- Clearly label all boxes.
- Plan where boxes and furniture will go in your new home.
- Have access to all paperwork associated with your new home and the move.
No matter the time of year you move, it will include a fair amount of work and stress. By being informed and prepared, you will be ready and the move will go as smoothly as possible.
If you need help with a winter move, you can trust MVM Moving to do the job right. We have plenty of experience moving in all types of weather conditions.