Ten Winter Moving Tips
/Moving in the winter time can seem like a daunting task - the cold, the snow, the wet. Nothing about it sounds convenient. It can feel hard, but these 10 simple tips can help make the process simpler, more efficient, and maybe even enjoyable.
1. Start Early
Plan to start a bit earlier in the day than you might a different time of year. The days are shorter in the winter and you'll want to be done before the sun goes down if possible.
2. Dress in Layers
You'll work up a sweat moving. Dressing in layers will keep you warm and also keep you from overheating as your body warms up.
3. Don't Pack Winter Supplies
Keep things like your car window scraper, snow shovel, hats, scarves, gloves, snow melt, etc, in a box or laundry basket in your car. You'll know right where they are when you inevitably need them on moving day.
4. Turn on the Utilities
Make sure you have all the utilities switched to your name and turned on before moving day. You'll need water and lights and heat that day.
5. Turn off the Furnace
Consider turning off the furnace while you are actively moving your belongings into the house. When you are in and out, opening and closing doors, your furnace will be working overtime to heat the home. Give it and your pocketbook a break while the moving is in happening.
6. Cover your Floors
Cover your floors with plastic sheets, tarps, carpet remnants or cardboard to keep snow from melting on and dirtying your floors. Also put mats outside every exterior door for people to wipe their feet on as they come inside.
7. Shovel and Salt
Clear the sidewalks and driveways if needed and put down salt or ice melt. You'll want to do your best to prevent slips and falls while carrying heavy objects.
8. Bring Gloves
Have extra gloves on hands for your movers. There's a good chance their gloves could get wet during the move. Extra dry gloves will help them stay comfortable and efficient.
9. Bring Towels
Have towels on hand to dry items off as they come inside to protect them and your walls and floors.
10. Have Something Warm to Drink
In addition to stocking up on waters for your movers, have warm drinks on hand too. A full coffee pot or a crock pot of warm hot cocoa or cider will provide a great pick me up to everyone on a cold day.
Moving in the winter doesn't have to be dreaded. It can be done and these tips will help make it easier.
