Tips For Moving During Winter

The most popular time of the year to move is between May and September. This is understandable because the weather is ideal, the days are long, kids are out of school, and everyone has a little more spare time to help with the move.

On the flip side, autumn and winter are the least popular times to move. Frigid temperatures, unpredictable weather, icy road conditions, shorter days, school schedules, and holidays all are major factors in avoiding a wintertime move.

However, sometimes you can’t avoid a wintertime move. Perhaps you have a new job, need to care for a sick family member, or found a house that’s exactly what you’ve been looking for. Now you have a wintertime move… is there any way to make it a little easier?

It’s Not All Bad

First of all, wintertime moves can have its advantages.

• Moving company availability: Once peak moving season is over, professional moving companies have much greater availability and flexibility. Whereas in the summer you have to move when the movers can squeeze you in, during the winter, you’re more likely to get your ideal moving date.
• Experienced movers: Many moving companies hire temporary, inexperienced workers to help out during the peak moving season in the summer. But this can result in damaged possessions. In the winter, your movers will typically be the most experienced ones, which means your belongings are more likely to arrive safely at their new location.
• Better moving prices: During peak season, movers raise their prices. But during the offseason, many moving companies reduce their prices. Fall and winter are the most affordable seasons to hire a professional moving service.
• Best time to buy a house: Autumn and winter are slower housing seasons, which means you can get the best price on a new home during this time.

So while you might not pick wintertime to move, it does have some advantages. For many Americans who couldn’t afford a professional moving service during peak season and higher prices, the reduced prices in the wintertime months can make a professional moving service feasible.

Tips for Moving in the Winter

Here are some top tips for moving in the winter.

Hire a Professional Mover

Moving in the wintertime can be especially cumbersome. Ice can make steps and sidewalks dangerous, the cold can make your friend and family helpers miserable, and who wants to drive a rental truck on an icy or hazardous road?

Skip all this stress and discomfort by hiring a professional moving company like Peavler Moving & Storage. We know all the tips and tricks for moving safely during the wintertime. And we do it so you (and your friends and family!) don’t have to! You can simply direct the movers where to go and show up at your new home without having the experience the winter elements.

Leave Some Wiggle Room

You might have planned your move to a T, but then your moving date is during a blizzard you can’t control. Moving companies understand this and can be more flexible during the winter months because it’s a slower season. Give yourself a few extra days–whether that’s moving earlier or later than anticipated.

Set Up Utilities Beforehand

When you’re done getting everything into the house, you’re going to want heat, hot water, and internet. Don’t leave these until the last minute to get set up; consider setting these up a week or two in advance to ensure they’re ready.

Salt the Entry Points

If your area has experienced recent snow or ice, then it’s best to salt (and/or shovel) the entrance to your home, driveway, sidewalks, or any other walkway. While it might be a pain to vacuum up the salt later, this can potentially save a lot of pain and suffering from slipping while carrying boxes or heavy furniture.

Dress Appropriately

Dressing in layers allows you to stay warm until your body temperature rises, and then take off layers as appropriate. Wearing working gloves can keep your fingers warm and also give you a better grip. Wear a hat or earmuffs to prevent earaches from the winter wind. And perhaps most importantly, wear slip-proof shoes or boots. There will be extra moisture from snow, ice, or rain, and wearing slip-proof shoes can prevent you from injuring yourself or others.

Peavler Moving & Storage is ready to help you move in the wintertime! We are a family-owned-and-operated business with over 35 years of experience. We pride ourselves on the care we take when moving your possessions; we treat your possessions like our own! Our countless satisfied customers can attest to our professionalism and efficiency. Contact us today for a free quote!