3 Things to Consider When Moving in the Winter
Even if you are an organized and strategic thinker, moving can be a stressful, time-consuming, and costly activity. The winter weather adds a layer of complexity to the moving process that may make even the most experienced mover think twice. But moving in the winter can be a benefit as well – you’re less likely to break a sweat, you can line up your move with new vacation days or paid-time-off after the new year, storage unit rentals are generally less expensive, and moving companies are more likely to have flexibility in their schedule to accommodate your needs. And sometimes you simply don’t have a choice about the timing of your move.
No matter the reason, here are five things to consider when moving to a new home or apartment during the winter months.
Transportation
Consider hiring a packing and moving company to safely transport your goods from place to place. Professional movers are less busy during the winter months and are likely more able to accommodate you with flexible scheduling and lower rates. Experts know how to pack to save space, label boxes for easy reference, and work more efficiently. They’re able to do so because they don’t have the added emotional layer that can sometimes complicate and slow down the moving process. And they know what packing materials are waterproofed for inclement weather.
When the time comes to move your family members, with or without your things in tow, you’ll also want to ensure that your car is inspected and fully serviced ahead of time, getting you to your new location safely. Driving to your new home in inclement weather also gives you a chance to experience your new neighborhood potentially at its worst, discovering alternative routes and learning what streets to avoid for issues concerning flooding or visibility. While always prioritizing safety, you can use inclement winter weather to your advantage and help you prepare for life in your new neighborhood.
Utilities & Other Supplies
Make sure you contact your new utility companies two to three weeks before you move to learn all you can about your new service. You may be able to transfer your current service to your new location if it’s the same provider. You’ll want to have heat, electricity and running water a couple of days before moving in. Don’t wait until you’ve unpacked to check that the heat is heating, the water is flowing, and the electricity is ready for you.
You should also plan to have certain basic supplies ready on day one. For your home exterior, you’ll need a shovel, ice scraper, and salt or sand for snowy or icy conditions. It’s a lot safer for you and your professional movers to haul boxes up the driveway and walkway of a weather-treated home exterior. Have a couple of days’ worth of dry and canned food goods, bottled water, warm blankets, and a first aid kit at the ready, so your first few days go smoothly no matter what the forecast brings. It’s easy to think you’ll go to the grocery store on the day you move in, but you may not have time, energy, or ability to do so that easily during a winter move.
Safety and Security
Schedule the move for as early in the day as possible to make the most of daylight, which is shorter in the winter months. If you need to move in the dark, bring LED lanterns to help light the way, but remember the temperature also drops substantially after sundown in the winter months. Wear practical, weather-safe clothing and accessories in layers for moving in and out of the cold easily, and have extra hats, gloves, scarves and socks ready just in case you need a change. Move slowly over slippery surfaces and take frequent water breaks – most people don’t realize you’ll dehydrate faster in the cold weather than you do in the heat! Consider transporting the most fragile electronics in your heated vehicle, rather than in the freezing hull of the moving truck.
Lastly, expect the unexpected! Even the most well-planned and professional moves experience speed bumps along the way. Set your mind to being patient and minimizing stress for everyone involved. Moving can be tiresome and taxing – a successful move is one that is completed without injury or serious damage, no matter the time it takes.
Your Winter Move
Moving between December and March in our New York regional climate can prove to be more challenging than at other points during the year. While inclement weather can strike year-round, the shortened daylight hours and frigid temperatures add difficulty to an already complicated process. If at all possible, plan for professionals to assist at every step of the way. Make sure all vehicles involved in the move are winter-ready prior to moving day. Stock up on winter supplies and keep them handy to unpack immediately in a home that should already have heat, electricity, and water service at least two days before you arrive. Take all the precautions you normally would for travelling outdoors in cold weather, plus safety measures for strenuous activities, and aim to be finished as early in the day as possible. Finally, know that even the most organized people experience unexpected moving challenges and the best thing you can do is be adaptable and ready to adjust.
Related Articles: How to Pack for a Move [Moving Checklist]
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