Moving in winter is not such a crazy idea if you are living in a warmer climate area. Moving in snow, ice, and freezing temperatures does not make for the best and safest moving conditions. However, there are perks to be enjoyed when making your move this time of year. There are also some things to think about that you would not have to consider if you were moving in warmer weather versus moving in colder weather.
First, the perks of moving in winter. Putting up with the inconvenience of a winter move could save you cash month after month from now on, particularly if you are a renter. The home and apartment turnover is slower in the winter. The law of supply and demand plays a large part in the home and rental cost. If your move dates are flexible, hold off a few months and wait out the most demanding season for moving. As with moving services, storage facilities have a similar busy season. Temporary moving storage availability is higher in the late fall and winter because most people have completed their move already and college students are back in school having taken their belongings out of summer storage.
Should you be brave enough to take on the challenge of moving in winter, here are 8 furniture moving tips to remember that will help you survive:
- Winter Moving Tip #1: Recruit Help
Hiring a professional furniture moving company with moving packing services is the safest way to go and saves your friends and family members from a greater risk of injury due to slippery conditions and cold temperatures, but if you are a do-it-yourselfer and willing to risk it, be sure to reward your helpers generously. - Winter Moving Tip #2: Clear the Way
If you’re moving in the snow, clear the walkways of snow and ice or other debris at both your old home and your new home prior to attempting to move anything. This will save time and if you hired movers, money. Some furniture moving companies will clear pathways, but that cost is most likely passed on to the customer. It is worth the time it takes to clear the area to be safe and surefooted when moving your furniture. Keep salt and shovels on hand in case you need to clear any paths during the move, too. - Winter Moving Tip #3: Dress for the Occasion
When moving in winter, dress in layers so you can shed clothing if you start to overheat. Just because it is cold out doesn’t mean you won’t sweat or get hot. Be sure you have gloves that enable you to get a good grip on what you are carrying. - Winter Moving Tip #4: Protect Furniture from Moisture
If rain or snow is forecast for your moving day, having stretch wrap on hand to wrap your furniture is a great idea. Stretch wrapping furniture with furniture pads will keep moisture out as well as offer an extra layer of protection from scratches or punctures. - Winter Moving Tip #5: Protect the Interior
Trekking in and out of a house or apartment with wet, salty shoe bottoms can wreak havoc on the floors of your old home and your new home. Protect carpets, tile, vinyl, or hardwood floors with used cardboard boxes cut and taped down in high traffic areas. There is also this wonderful stuff called carpet protection tape available for purchase at most home improvement stores. Have old towels or rags on hand to wipe up any mess on hard surfaced floors as soon as possible. - Winter Moving Tip #6: Keep Warm from the Inside Out
Keep plenty of water, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate on hand. Staying hydrated and taking a break to get warm is critical to surviving moving in winter. Simply having a door person to control the opening and closing of the door helps keep the inside as warm as possible. - Winter Moving Tip #7: Drive Carefully
Take your time driving. Navigating slippery roads with a loaded rented moving truck is challenging even for the most seasoned road warriors. - Winter Moving Tip #8: Be Smart
When moving in winter, safety is most important. If conditions are not conducive to attempting the move, in a blizzard, for example, it probably is not smart to continue that day. Make some phone calls and reschedule with landlords, rental companies, and moving companies. Most will be understanding and accommodate your needs.
