10 Top Winter Moving Tips

Dec 9, 2022 | Moving Tips

Did you know you’re more likely to save money when you choose to move during the winter months? While moving during the winter may sound like an inconvenience, there are a few perks to making this choice!

At Charles Moving And Storage, we’re passionate about providing our customers with the highest quality service. From providing winter moving tips to helping you with your long-distance or residential moves, we’re here for you.

You may be considering moving during the winter but wonder, “how do you prepare to move to cold weather?”

You’re more likely to save money on rent as most people don’t want to deal with moving during the winter. You’re also more free to focus on moving during vacation or holiday time. Moving companies are also more available!

Read on for the best tips to make your winter move smooth and easy.

1. Be Prepared

You may be wondering, “is moving in the winter a good idea?” We’re here to tell you that with the right amount of preparation, moving in the winter can be smoother than you think.

First, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to move since daylight doesn’t last as long during the winter. Remember that driving in the winter at night isn’t always easy.

Just in case the weather takes an unexpected turn on moving day, have an alternative day picked out.

Moving can take a lot of energy, so make sure to plan and arrange for a babysitter or pet sitter so you can focus on your move. It may be distracting or dangerous to have kids and pets to watch while dealing with weather issues.

Pack an emergency kit and bring it with you while you travel. Include blankets, flashlights, extra clothes, candles, a first aid kit, and toiletries. Keep salt and shovels on hand too, just in case it’s snowing.

2. Check the Weather

This tip should always be taken seriously when it comes to moving during the winter. When people wonder, “is it hard to move during winter?” they often imagine extreme rain or snow.

Makes sure to avoid this scenario by picking days that are projected to have better weather. Moving during snowstorm weather is not ideal for anyone.

Even if you can’t avoid something like rain, you can check and prepare for it. Checking ahead will give you time to gather raincoats, boots, and everything you need.

If you’re moving in December or any other harsh winter month, check the weather and continue to check it until moving day.

3. Turn Utilities on in Your New Home

One thing that may slip your mind if you’re moving house in January or other winter months is to turn on your utilities.

The last thing you want to do is arrive at your new home only to realize you can’t turn the heat or hot water on. You’ll want to get warm first when you step inside from the cold!

Call the utility company to make sure services are scheduled to be turned on ahead of time. This way, you can avoid mistakes or miscommunication.

4. Keep Clean

Moving means many dirty, wet shoes will walk through your old and new houses. Floors will likely get covered in water, dirt, leaves, mud, and more in rain or snow.

You can help cut down on the dirt and grime by making walkways for your family and movers to walk on while you all move through each room.

Your walkways can be made of simple items like cardboard, old towels, or newspapers. Also, keep extra towels on hand to wipe up any puddles or water that may make someone slip.

5. Protect Your Belongings From the Cold

One thing unique to moving in winter is that you will likely have to protect your belongings from the harsh weather.

Upholstered items that can become wet, like a sofa, should be covered in moving blankets and plastic wrap to protect them from moisture. Moisture can cause these items to become moldy or stained.

Fragile items, like wood or glass, should be double-wrapped as they may become more brittle in extreme cold.

Electronic items can be sensitive to the cold. Water condensation that collects inside them can cause a short circuit or water damage. Make sure to keep these items totally insulated during your move.

6. Create a Schedule and Stay Organized

If you move during the winter months, there is always the possibility you will encounter delays, roadblocks, or have to reschedule something.

For peace of mind, make dealing with moving easier by getting as organized as possible. You may not be able to control unexpected dilemmas, but you can have a plan for when they happen.

Get a planner or moving notebook. Use this to keep track of all the phone numbers you may need if you encounter a problem when moving.

This may include the numbers of your movers, new landlord, old landlord, utility companies, road service companies, and more.

Create a calendar schedule for important moving deadlines and payments. Moving can be overwhelming, so schedule when you want to pack up your bedroom, enroll the kids into their new school, or need to turn off your utilities.

7. Stay Calm and Comfortable

The most important thing to remember about moving in the winter is to relax! Moving, no matter what time of year, can be stressful. It’s important to remember to breathe, take a step back, and enjoy the process.

Makes sure you’re comfortable and warm for your move. Wear clothes you can freely move in and dress in layers.

You may even want to stop and grab some hot chocolate to help you enjoy your cold move. However, if you choose to cope with the stress of moving, try to enjoy the experience.

Winter Moving Tips and More

Now you know some of the best winter moving tips to help you get through moving during winter weather.

At Charles Moving And Storage, we’re here to help with your moving and storage needs, no matter what time of year it is. Contact us today with any questions about your upcoming move!

Find Us

Address
2293 Springfield Avenue,
Union, NJ 07088

Contact
(908) 687-8898
[email protected]

Hours
Monday—Friday: 9:00AM–5:00PM
Saturday & Sunday: 11:00AM–3:00PM