With all the packing, organizing, and planning, moving is stressful enough as it is. But throw in the sub-zero temperatures we experience for the majority of the year and the entire process of moving during the winter becomes downright unbearable.
Luckily, if you’re planning on moving during the winter, there are a few things you can do to prepare. Let’s take a look!
6 Helpful Tips For Moving During The Winter
1. Check the Forecast
In the days leading up to your moving day, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the forecast to make sure you don’t run into any unexpected surprises. With our unpredictable weather, there could be clear skies one night and a foot of snow the next!
Keep this in mind as there’s a possibility you might need to reschedule your move if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
2. Protect your Floors
When you’re moving furniture in and out of your home, your floors can take a beating, especially if you’re moving during the winter. That’s because you risk tracking sand and salt from the roads into your home.
When you’re moving large furniture, it’s unrealistic to expect to have everyone stop and take their shoes off at the door.
So what should you do to protect your floors?
Well, one possible solution is to line your floors with plastic tarps (at least on the main walking paths where movers will travel.)
These tarps can be found at your local hardware store and can go a long way in saving you cleanup time and protecting against damages.
3. Stay Warm
It’s not uncommon for the temperature to drop to potentially dangerous levels during our winters. That’s why it’s critical that you have a plan for keeping you and your family warm during the move.
Because your doors will be open when moving items in and out of your home, the temperature inside will drop quickly. That’s why it’s a good idea to dress in layers while moving your possessions. As you continue to work and your body temperature heats up, you can just shed a layer!
It’s also a good idea to invest in a few pairs of insulated work gloves for anyone who is helping with the move. Fingers tend to be one of the first body parts to get cold and you want to make sure you keep them nimble.
And finally, make sure you turn on the furnace at your new home well in advance of moving in. The last thing you want is to have to sleep in your winter jacket the first night living there!
4. Protect Your Belongings Against the Cold
Some of your possessions might be particularly sensitive to the cold. For example, electronics, liquids and breakable items can become a problem in subzero temperatures.
To help prevent any property damage, be sure to properly label any boxes that might contain temperature-sensitive items and keep them in a warm place. For instance, you might decide to store them in the cab of your truck rather than the box.
6. Take Your Time and Prioritize Safety
It’s no use rushing your move if it will just result in problems. And if you’re moving during the winter, more often than not, failing to take your time is even more dangerous.
Be sure to take the time to take care of all the little things, like clearing walkways and driveways, or checking road conditions the day of your move.
Yes, it may be annoying to spend time on these things when you’re anxious to get into your new home, but it will likely save you time and headaches in the long run.
Western Moving – The Best Choice for Moving During The Winter
Western moving has decades worth of experience moving Canadians and their belongings during our harsh winters. Whether you’re moving from Edmonton to Ottawa or internationally, their experienced staff will walk you through the entire process. Contact them today to learn more about how they can help with your move!
