Moving Smarter Not Harder

Posted on: 9 December 2022

Do you need to move during the coldest months of the year? From scheduling movers to preparing boxes and bins, take a look at what you need to know about a winter-time move.

You May Have More Scheduling Options

Yes, a winter move has its challenges. The weather could get wild, the mercury has dipped, and lingering snow, sleet, or ice on the roads and walkways can add to the accident and injury risks. But these issues shouldn't stop you from calling local movers during the winter-time season.

According to the National Association of Realtors Moving.com website, mid-September through April are the slowest months of the year for moves. This means you may have an easier time scheduling a winter move than a spring or summer service. If you need a specific time of day, day of the week, or date, the cold weather may create scheduling benefits you just can't ignore.

You May Need To Leave Extra Prep Time

Any move requires preparation. You will need to declutter your existing home (and remove anything you don't want to take with you), wrap delicate breakables, package your belongings in boxes or bins, disassemble some of your furniture, cover sensitive larger items with moving blankets, create a moving inventory, and label everything. But the winter-time prep steps won't end there.

Along with the usual pre-move preparation activities that almost everyone has to check off their to-do list, you will also need to prepare for the cold, snowy, or icy weather. This type of prep could include:

• Shovel walkways and your driveway. Make sure the moving company employees have a safe path to walk on and a clear place to park their trucks. This step also reduces the amount of water and debris that the movers track into your home.

• Use salt or ice melter. Even though shoveling can reduce the risks (and the amount of muck) from the winter snow and ice, your walkways and driveway may still have slick spots. Rock salt or ice melter can make these spaces safer.

• Move everything near the entry. Reduce the amount of time the move takes and the amount of time your entry door remains open. This step can help to cut utility (heating) costs during the move.

Along with these pre-move prep steps, think about ways to stay warm as the local movers work. Make sure both your old and new home are heated, dress in layers, and brew a batch of hot cocoa for everyone to enjoy.  

For more info, contact local movers.