Moving during the winter months can be a real challenge. Against harsh elements like snow, ice and freezing rain, it can be tempting to delay the move until warmer weather. Not to worry, if you are planning a winter move here are some tips to help you move like a pro.
1. Plan ahead. For most moving companies, the off-season runs from November through February. This is the perfect time to take advantage of flexible scheduling options for your move.
2. Clear your walkways. On your moving day, be sure that your walkways and driveway are free of ice and snow. This may require shovelling and laying rock salt to ensure that the path stays clear. If it is snowing, mixing calcium chloride with the rock salt can expedite melting of the snow and slow the re-icing process.
3. Watch the weather. If you have a little wiggle room with your moving date, monitor the weather so you can plan your move accordingly. You do not want snow or freezing rain to surprise you on moving day. Staying abreast of the weather forecast will allow you to anticipate weather challenges and get ahead of them.
4. Keep temperatures low. The constant opening and closing of doors during the move can cause a strain on your heating system. This can have a major impact on your energy bills during freezing cold weather. To avoid this, layer your clothing and keep your indoor temperatures low. Maintaining an indoor temperature of at least 55 degrees is recommended to keep your pipes from freezing.
5. Keep boxes insulated. During a winter move, freezing temperatures may warp objects made of solid wood. To prevent this, take care to insulate these items when packing the boxes. Cold-sensitive items like electronics and plants should be kept indoors or in a heated car as long as possible to avoid damage. Cold temperatures can make these objects brittle and breakable.
6. Protect your flooring. Trekking in and out of the house in snow-, ice- or salt-covered boots can cause damage to your carpets and hardwood floors. Laying old rugs or plastic tarp throughout these areas can help protect the flooring and minimize potential safety risks.
7. Pre-pack your moving vehicle. In anticipation of the move, many people rent large trucks or moving vans to transport their belongings. While this can be highly advantageous when moving bulky items, it can pose challenges for individuals with little to no experience operating large vehicles on icy roads. To help with this, pre-pack the vehicle a few days ahead of moving day. This will give you plenty of time to get used to maneuvering the vehicle prior to getting on icy winter roads.
Winter moves can be a challenge, but they do not have to be. Follow these simple tips and you will be well on your way to moving like a pro. If your winter move proves too much to handle on your own, consider enlisting the help of a moving specialist.
