10 Tips to ensure a smooth and safe move in Winter

When planning a move during the winter months, keep these tips in mind to help ensure a smooth and safe move for all.

1) Keep an eye on the weather.

Winter can pay a surprise visit so be aware of any changing conditions that might impact your move.

2) Set aside winter supplies.

Pack a box to include gloves, hats and scarves, as well as an ice scraper and salt.  Keep this box in the car with you, along with a snow shovel.  If your driveway or walkways at your new house are snow covered, you’ll have what you need on hand.

3) Board the pets.

If you have pets, it is a good idea to board them during the move.  You don’t want them underfoot and with doors open, you don’t want pets to get out and go missing!  Moving is often an emotional trauma for pets, so it is best to bring pets to your new home when the household is calm and filled with familiar scents.

4) Let there be light (and heat).

Be sure that all utilities have been called well in advance so that the electricity and heat can be turned on a couple of days before move-in day.

5) Have a back-up plan.

Talk to your mover about a “Plan B” if a winter storm threatens your move.  Movers are used to winter weather conditions, but if a move must be postponed, you will want to have discussed this with your realtor, landlord, and the movers beforehand. The movers may be able to pick up your things, but not be able to deliver them to your new home.  If this is the case, you will need short-term accommodations.

6) Clear the way.

Make sure the sidewalks, walkways and driveways are cleared of snow and use salt or ice-melt so that the movers have clear and safe access to your home to move your belongings to the truck.

7) Plan your route.

Know how to get where you are going and check with the local authorities in the event of bad weather to be sure there are no road closures.  Know where overnight accommodations are located along your route should you need to stop.

8) Keep everything tidy.

Have old towels and paper towels on hand in the car so that you can wipe snow and/or rain off the boxes as they are being carried into your new home.  Be sure to have padding on the floors to soak up moisture from inclement weather.

9) Offer hot drinks.

Hot chocolate, tea and coffee will be most welcomed by everyone who’s helping with your move.

10) Prepare your car for winter.

Have your car winterized, topping up all fluids and checking the brakes and tires.  Be sure to put on snow tires just in case.  Carry extra windshield fluid as well.

If you have concerns about the weather on moving day, talk to your movers.  They have experience moving in all seasons
and can answer your questions.