As the saying goes, winter can be the most wonderful time of the year. Building a snowman, sledding, ice skating and drinking hot chocolate by the fireplace are time-honored activities we enjoy in the colder months. What if, however, the need arises for you to move during the snowy season? Not to worry – AMEX Moving & Storage has you covered with these helpful cold-weather moving strategies:
Whether you’re moving on your own or hiring professionals, it is key to ensure everyone stays safe. When moving day arrives, be sure the sidewalks and walkways around your house are clear of ice and snow. In addition to shoveling, you should use sand, salt or any of the many commercially available de-icing products to add traction and melt away the excess. Don’t forget your driveway as well!
During cold & wet weather, the high-traffic areas of your home are highly susceptible to being soiled by water, salt & dirt. If you have children, this should come as no surprise. Likewise, when moving day comes, you don’t want your expensive rugs to be ruined during the process either. Take care to remove them, and place protective pieces of large cardboard or plastic on the flooring below.
Nothing will put a damper on moving into a new home more than having no heat, hot water or lighting during the winter. Check with your new landlord and the utility companies ahead of time to make sure your new home is cozy and comfortable the second you step through the door. If your new home is a large one, its a good idea to turn on the heat a few days prior to moving in to allow the house to warm up sufficiently.
Cold weather makes delicate items become even more so. Its a good idea to double pack fragile items making them less likely to break in transit. Things like electronics & glassware are especially prone to cold-temperature damage. Remember that on occasion your items may sit in a cold moving truck overnight – don’t let them be exposed to the elements!
While seemingly common sense, when moving day arrives you’ll be too busy to notice changing weather conditions. Inclement weather can have drastic effects on your many aspects of your relocation, whether using professional company or, especially, when moving by yourself in your own vehicle or rental. Keep in mind that any vehicle behaves differently in snow & ice conditions. This holds particularly true for those weighed down with your furniture and belongings. Stay safe!
Speaking of vehicles – if you choose to move yourself, make sure your car is serviced prior to making the trip, in particular if you are traveling a long distance. A general tuneup, tire & brake inspection and fluid replacement are all highly recommended. You may want to look into tire chains, an extra can of gas, spare windshield fluid, and a bag of salt. The last thing you want is to break down on the side of the road in a blizzard.
Break out that hot chocolate! A blustery moving day is the perfect time to take a break and warm up with a nice hot beverage. Whether if moving yourself or hiring a company – everyone’s frostbitten fingers & insides will appreciate it. It will go a long way in keeping spirits up.
Its always a good idea to pack a box of essentials for your move. Having warm clothes, paper products & toiletries, as well as snacks and easy to cook foods on hand will go a long way in ensuring your first few hours at your new home are comfortable. Have this box loaded last so you can access these items right away.
Given that winter is considered the off-season in the moving industry, companies tend to be more flexible on date availability and rates are more reasonable. Just be sure to check in with your movers a few days prior to move day to ensure weather won’t be a factor. Although more challenging, a winter move can prove to be a very smart decision. Staying safe and following our handy tips will make it all worthwhile.
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