Common Winter Moving Challenges

By Ian Acosta on February 19, 2017

Besides the obvious hurdles of snow and ice, there are many more obstacles and challenges to deal with while moving during the winter. This list will hopefully be a brief explanation of some obstacles you may be forced to deal with and some tips for how to get through them.

Moving By Yourself

Do not try and do everything yourself. While you may plan out a moving day that, according to the weather, will be clear and sunny with no problems at all, be prepared for the worst. Weather can change at a moment’s notice and that means snowy roads, icy conditions, and low visibility.

Do not risk your own safety just to save some money and do it on your own. Hire a reputable moving company near you to take all of the stress and trouble out of the move.

Properly Packing Possessions

Hopefully, the alliteration will make this tip stick. Some may not realize the finer points of packing during the winter as opposed to packing for the summer. For example, many do not take into account how the temperature change will affect what they pack. Furthermore, if using a moving company that doesn’t have climate-controlled trucks, your fragile and more sensitive possessions become that much more breakable.

Be sure to stock up on extra layers of packing paper and bubble wrap to pack your extra valuable possessions such as plates, glassware, electronics, and other furniture. Don’t let cold temperatures ruin your belongings!

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Keeping Paths Clear

Moving, or just preparing to move, is a tumultuous process. In winter, it becomes even more so. No one wants to deal with snow and ice if at all possible. Prevent any injuries by making sure the sidewalks and walkways are clear of any snow and ice. If there is thick ice on the ground, get ice melt to start chipping away at the ice.

Moving with pets? There is specially designed pet-friendly ice melter you can put down on the ground. So, if the family dog happens to lick up a particle or two, there will be minimal harm done. If your soon-to-be apartment or home is within the area, it might be best to pack the necessary materials to ensure the path is clear to unpack. Take it a step further and contact the realtor or landlord to make sure the paths are as clear as possible on move-in day.

Keeping Rooms Dry

This applies to both your old and new living location. Because you may be stepping on snow and ice going to and from moving items, it is best to properly prepare the surfaces inside for this. Consider putting down mats in both your old and new place to minimize water damage to carpets and hardwood floors. More than anything, it is common courtesy for the place you are leaving while also keeping your new location as new as possible.

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Dressing Properly

Sometimes dressing properly for moving during the winter is an afterthought. To combat the temperature and other potential weather hazards, it is important to dress properly. Do not wear bulky clothing that will make it hard to move because that will just make the whole process that much more difficult.

However, do not wear too much that you will end up sweating and get ill because of it. Wear insulated, form-fitting clothing to stay warm but keep full range of motion. Also, if using the services of movers, be sure to be a gracious host and offer them hot drinks if needed. Common courtesy can go a long way.

Turning On/Off Utilities

This can easily slip your mind. If moving in during the winter, be sure to have your new place’s utilities turned on and running for when you move into your new place. Turn on the electricity, crank up the heat, and make sure the water is on as well. By prepping the utilities, it will allow your apartment to be warm, prepared, and in the best shape possible for when you are all settled after the big move.

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Anticipating Inclement Weather

You may be totally prepared to move out, but guess what? The weather may have other ideas when moving day comes around. Have a backup plan or two ready for the move in case the weather decides to act silly. Contact the moving company to see if they could be lenient in scheduling the days. The idea is to have a workable, flexible plan of action in working with the conditions.

Preparing Your Vehicle

You probably will not only be using a mover’s truck to get from point A to point B but your own car as well. Make sure you prepare and pack the essentials to handle anything that the situation could throw at you. Make sure your car’s snow tires are prepped. Pack some extra fuel and food just in case.

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