For many, moving in the winter is not ideal. But sometimes, your moving timeline is not flexible due to job start dates, expiring leases, home logistics, etc. Moving in the winter may seem miserable, but it is doable, and people do it all the time.
Winter storms and mitten-filled hands may indeed make the moving process longer, but when you hire full-service movers, the process isn’t that much different for you. There are actually some benefits to a winter move versus a summer one. The most significant one is that you don’t have to deal with the higher prices of the prime moving season. With fewer movers, Utah moving companies don’t book up as far in advance.
With some direction and wisdom, your winter move can be a breeze. Here are 11 quick tips for moving in the dead of winter.
1. Expect Delays
Have you ever noticed that our expectations drastically affect our experiences? When we have low expectations for something, we often leave the experience pleasantly surprised. High expectations often leave room for disappointment.
When moving in the winter, keep reasonable expectations as you begin your journey. Know that delays due to weather are a real possibility. Tell yourself that processes may take longer, and that is OK. Plan for bumps ahead of time and embrace them as they come along.
2. Prepare and Plan
Winter moves tend to require extra planning. As you plan for your move, list all the variables that could impact your move and devise plans to deal with them. For instance, if the weather is rainy or snowy on your moving day, it’s a good idea to have a backup plan. Consider arranging for an indoor storage unit to hold your furniture and belongings until the weather improves temporarily. The last thing you want during a long-distance move is an avoidable issue disrupting your plans and soaking your sofa.
3. Find Discounts
As you search “residential movers near me” to book a moving company, take advantage of the discounts many movers offer during their slow time to entice customers to use their services. You will most likely be able to find incredible rates and save a lot of money by moving in the winter. While researching moving companies, compare services and not just prices, as you want to be sure they offer what you need.
4. Book Your Movers in Advance
Even though moving companies get booked up slower in the winter than in other months, it’s still wise to book your moving company well in advance. If you have a range of possible moving dates, plan your moving day as soon as possible in case the moving company has to reschedule due to inclement weather.
5. Properly Prepare Items
If you’re DIY packing, label your boxes so movers handle fragile items with extra care. In addition, don’t be cheap with the bubble wrap when packing your fragile items. Keep in mind that many moving companies offer packing services, which may be especially helpful in the winter to ensure your items are packed properly.
6. Keep a Snow and Ice Scraper Shovel With You
This is a good rule of thumb for winter in general. Always have a winter shovel in your car to clear paths during surprise snowfalls and potentially dig your vehicle out of snow-filled parking spaces.
By the same token, never drive anywhere in the winter in Utah without a snow scraper. This will come in handy for your car and the moving truck on moving day. With defrost on full blast and a handy snow scraper by your side, you’ll be on your way in no time.
7. Bring a Warm Lunch
We speak from experience when we say that a warm lunch on a cold moving day hits the spot. Consider packing hot lunches for you and your family to eat when you feel frigid and exhausted. This will help warm your body temperature, replenish your energy, and re-energize you to conquer moving day.
8. Dress in Layers
If you’re a Utah native, you know that wearing layers is a winter norm. Think of sweaters and jackets that you can remove and put on as needed. In addition, wear shoes with traction to avoid slips on ice. Bring a pair of gloves for every family member to prevent freezing fingers and scarves to protect your ears and mouth, especially if you’re doing any heavy lifting yourself.
9. Invest in Tarps
Tarps or plastic sheets are necessary for winter moves to help cover belongings in snow or rain. Having tarps or plastic sheets readily available will allow you to keep moving no matter the weather and help prevent damage to your belongings.
10. Do a Vehicle Check
Breaking down on any given day is rough, but breaking down in the dead of winter in the middle of your move is not only inconvenient but can be detrimental in frigid temperatures. For that reason, it is crucial to do a service check on your vehicle to determine everything is in good working order. Make sure your tires have plenty of tread and air. Put this on your to-do list and make it a priority.
11. Crank the Heat in Your New Home
If possible, and depending on how far your new home is, set up your utilities before your move and turn on your heat so you don’t have to move into a freezing home without immediate access to all your cozy blankets. If distance makes it impossible to turn your heat on ahead of time, consider bringing a space heater to use until you get the furnace going.
Although it can seem more challenging to do anything while cold, moving in the winter doesn’t have to be drastically different than moving any other month. With the proper knowledge, preparation, and moving company, it can be advantageous to move during the winter. Some may even prefer layering up and keeping cozy for a winter move instead of dripping sweat and overheating during a summer move. No matter what month you choose for your move, prepare properly, and the process will be a breeze.