Practical Tips for Moving in the Winter

So you’re moving in the winter and that may present some challenges, however, situations arise and so we must rise to the task. If you are moving across the country you will have a larger undertaking than if you are moving 5 or 10 miles, but both are totally doable.  Likewise, the day of weather will inevitably either bless you or present you with further hurdles to clear.  No matter what happens, with a few extra precautions and added flexibility, moving in the dead of the winter can be accomplished without too much hassle if you play it smart.  

Here are our top winter moving and packing tips.

Hire a moving company!  Okay so I know you are like duh, but seriously, there is reason why professionals do this kind of thing. First of all, packing a van in freezing weather is not all that fun and you know this if you have ever done it before! Second, driving it across the town or across the state is difficult enough if you are not experienced, not to mention if it’s snowing or icy.  Third, professional companies hold special insurances that safeguard your belongings in case of an accident.  Fourth, the professional process is definitely faster!  

If you do decide to drive yourself, become a weather watcher and have flexibility!  It might not always be possible, but if you know there is a big storm being predicted you should try to work around it.  Meaning don’t start heading over the Rockies to Colorado when the area is in the middle of a winter weather watch or storm.  If you have to stay in a hotel for a few days and extend the rental truck, that’s what you got to do, but plan ahead because when the snow hits, the race is on to get off the road before you get stranded.

Call ahead!  You definitely want to make sure you call ahead and have all your utilities turned on before you arrive.  That way when you walk into your new toasty warm house, you immediately remember why the journey was so worthwhile!!  Also hire someone to shovel, plow and salt your driveway and sidewalks at the new place so when you pull the truck up it will be easy. Thinking ahead on your new home will prevent things like frozen pipes, slips and falls, and additional hassles.

Pack accordingly!  Unloading the truck by yourself in the snow will definitely take longer and you might end up having to do it over a day or two depending on the weather situation and your fatigue level.  For this reason, pack things you know will need immediately or things that must first be brought into the house in the back of the truck.