Tips for Moving in the Winter

October 28th, 2019

Nobody likes to move, but it’s even worse if you have to move in the winter. Colder temperatures and harsh weather make a winter move especially daunting, but there are a few ways to make it easier! These winter moving tips may not be able to make it feel like summer again, but they’ll surely make for a better moving experience! 

Hire a Professional 

Attempting a winter move by yourself is not a good idea. You’ll be able to save time and be safer if you hire professional movers. Call different moving companies to find the best value. Remember, the best value doesn’t mean the lowest price! Look for a reasonable price paired with great experience, insurance, and positive references. 

Schedule the Move Early 

Daylight is shorter during the winter so try to schedule your move early in the day. This way, movers won’t be working in the dark or at the coldest part of the day. Account for drive time between your old place and your new place before choosing a moving time. 

Clear the Way for Movers 

Get up before movers are due to arrive and clear the driveway, walkways, and sidewalk from any snow or ice. It’s a good idea to throw down some winter salt too to help prevent slipping. When you arrive at the new location, clear the way there as well. If a mover slips in the snow not only will your personal items get damaged, but they could get hurt too! 

Turn Utilities on Before the Move 

Turn the utilities on in your new home a day or two before you actual moving day. That way, you can have the heat turned up and ensure the movers will have a place to warm up in between loads. It’s always appreciated if you’re able to provide a warm beverage like coffee or hot chocolate too! Keep the utilities on at your current house until the move is over so they’ll be able to stay warm during the initial loading process too. 

When you’re moving in the winter remember that the movers hate it just as much as you do, so getting it over with quickly and safely should be the common goal. Don’t forget to ask about winter moving discounts since it’s a slow time of year for moving companies! Try to watch the weather forecast and if moving day is expected to get a lot of bad winter weather, it may be best to reschedule for a different day.

RARE Moving wants to make your life easier. Contact us to get a free estimate for your winter move!

Surviving a Winter Move

October 21st, 2019

Moving in the winter is less than ideal, but sometimes it has to be done. There are some extra precautions you’ll need to take to keep your winter move as safe and efficient as possible. If waiting for spring is out of the question, follow these tips to help survive your winter move. 

Leave it to Professionals

Moving in the winter calls for the help of professionals. It may come at an added cost, but it will help keep you and your belongings safe. Call around to multiple movers before hiring anyone. Try to find a moving company with reasonable rates, insurance, and positive customer references. Some movers even offer winter moving discounts since it’s a slow season for them! 

Check the Weather

This probably seems obvious, but make sure to check the weather as moving day approaches. If the weather forecast is calling for a lot of snow or especially bitter cold temperatures, ask the movers if they’re able to reschedule for the following week or even just a different day in the same week. 

Clear the Driveway

You should shovel all driveways, entryways, and sidewalks before movers arrive. Put down a coating of winter salt to prevent ice from accumulating during the move. Keep the driveway clear throughout the move, even if that means taking a break from loading and unloading to shovel for a few minutes. 

Keep Everyone Warm 

Staying warm during a winter move is vital. Keep everyone helping with the move warm by making sure utilities are turned on at the new location a couple of days before moving day and the utilities are still on at the old place. Turn the heat up high at both locations and encourage movers to take a break inside for a few minutes to warm up if they need too. Offering hot coffee or hot chocolate is an extra step that isn’t required, but definitely appreciated! 

Protect the Floors 

Protect your floors from moisture and winter salt by laying down tarps or plastic sheeting. This should be done at the old home and the new home before movers arrive.

Remember to be patient during a winter move. Everybody there will want to get it over with but rushing the process could lead to injury or damaged items. When you’re especially cold and ready for the move the be over, just imagine how worth it will all be when you’re enjoying your new home!

For a reliable moving company to help with your move this winter, contact Rare Moving & Trucking! We provide free estimates for your relocation – so call us at 617-825-7273 or use our contact form to start your moving process!