12 Must Know Tips When Moving In Winter

Winter is almost here! To make your move smooth, you should either be a mover yourself or just consider this roundup of tips. Moving is not one of the most enjoyable things when relocating and freezing temps, and the snow will even lower your motivation when moving during the winter. Holidays are coming and you have much to do and there are so many things to prepare. That is why we have gathered all this information in one place to help save your precious time and energy. In addition, make sure to check out some more valuable information for home sellers and home buyers from professional realtors at the end of the article.

Keep checking the weather forecast

Keep an eye on the weather. Have a detailed plan for the move and a backup plan, in case something goes wrong. Make sure there is no storm coming right the day of the move or the day before. It’s better to delay your move for a few days rather than get caught in a blizzard. Check the week of the move and then check each day of the week separately.

Prepare your old home to move out

Protect the inside space of the house. Make sure everything is ready for the move. Turn off the heating but not to the very end, keep plumbing warm. Remember, you’ll have your door open and close for many times and the heating will not help you. Have salt and sand by hand. Also, have some pairs of gloves for you and those who will help you take items in and out. Consider all the points below not only for the house you are going to move in but for your old home, as you’ll be in almost the same process when moving out and in.

Make sure utilities are all in a working condition

For your new house, make sure to check utilities beforehand. Here again, you can reduce dramatically the central heating, but you should keep one room warm for your kids and other family members and for having a break during the day. Keep the door of that room closed not to let the heated air escape. Do not forget about the lights. Check them beforehand. Since the days are short in winter, you’ll have to work till late and it will become impossible without lights turned on.

Protect floors in your new home

Have extra covers for your floors. Make sure the main walkways are covered and your hardwood and carpets are safe. This will also help stay clean while people are tromping in an out. Also, have some towels and large pieces of cardboard near the entrance. As heavy boxes may be put on the snow and then lifted again, the dirty snow will melt and cause a headache when cleaning your house after the move. So, just try to prevent melting snow from entering inside the house.

Clean snow from sidewalks, driveways, and stairs

Keep the main walkways, sidewalks, driveways and especially stairs free of snow. If it’s possible you’d better prepare this the day before the move. It’ll make your moving day easier if all the busy ways are clean. Not only it is difficult to carry heavy boxes down icy sidewalks, but it is also dangerous. People may just fall down and harm themselves or your belongings.

Don’t pack winter items and tools

If you’ve already packed all winter items, make sure they are not out of reach, as you may need them on a moving day or someday before opening all other boxes. Have them at the sight and unpack first as needed. If you’re still packing items, just leave the most frequently used ones unpacked.

Double check fragile items

Some items are delicate and may become more brittle in cold weather. So double pack them to protect and make your movers carry them easily. Also, remember to have individual packages for glass and other delicate belongings.

Prepare your car

Have your car serviced and in a good working condition. You don’t want to stack in the snow and stay for hours before the help comes. And if we consider all the boxes in your car, you can imagine how much stress that will cause if your car stops in the middle of the road on a moving day. If you’re traveling a long distance, make sure the tires and brakes are inspected and in a good condition for a trip in the ice and snow. Moving during winter really adds some challenges, but if you take care of all these things, you’ll do it easily and happily.

Take care of pets

If you have pets, you should take special care of them during the move. Let them stay in one place boarded not to be under feet of movers. If you have a friend or someone who can take care of your furry baby, ask them to look after them for a day or two. Or you can ask special pet care centers if it is not out of your budget. If your pet is with you, make sure to leave it in a warm room not to catch a cold.

Hire professional movers

Sure all mentioned above points are great, but hiring professional movers may be the answer to a safe and easy move. Just make sure to confirm all details with the movers. Even if you’re moving with professionals, you’d better know all these tips and tricks. Don’t forget about extra pairs of gloves, as their gloves may get torn during the process. Make sure they are happy and their fingers are not frozen while working.

Don’t forget about the tea

Any hot drink is really a must during the day. When you feel your hands and feet don’t want to go on at all, have a break and invite your movers to have a cup of hot chocolate or tea. It will make them get extra energy and think you’re awesome. All will be done more effectively, and you’ll all feel better.

Long-way move

Let’s also consider you’re moving through states and your move will take several days. Make sure you have spotted a place to have a rest and spend the night. Try to plan your trip so that you don’t have to drive in the night. Especially, if you’re traveling with kids, make sure you have enough food, hot drinks, and warm clothes at easy reach.

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