Dial (916) 786-8683 and make moving in the winter a breeze with Auburn Moving & Storage!
Are you in the process of relocating? After you pack up your cherished belongings, the next hurdle is to safely dispatch them to your new home. What do you do when this monumental task happens to fall in the chillier winter months?
As the go-to Sacramento moving service, we at Auburn Moving & Storage know a thing or two about guaranteeing a well-executed move even during unfavorable conditions. Keep reading as we unravel some indispensable insights to make the process easier.
1. Keep an Eagle Eye on the Cold Weather Forecasts
Rain, snowy or icy conditions, and other cases of inclement weather can add an extra layer of complexity to an already arduous job. Update yourself with weather forecasts projected for your winter moving day.
If you’re on a strict schedule and can’t afford to wait out bad weather, let a professional moving company do the heavy lifting for you.
2. Account for Daylight Savings Time in the Winter Months
With fewer daylight hours during the winter season, you might find yourself racing against the clock to complete your move. Acknowledge that sunset will roll around faster than you’re accustomed to, usually between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.
If possible, conduct an early morning moving day. The second best option is to break the move into a two-day operation or at least ensure proper indoor and outdoor lighting. The last thing you want is someone tripping over a rogue packing box or leaving a prized possession behind in the dark.
Maneuvering your car in darkness also poses challenges, especially on roads covered in ice and snow.
3. Make Sure You Have Utilities Set
After a long day of winter moving and facing the colder temperatures, wouldn’t you prefer to have a warm house equipped with hot water and electricity to welcome you? Coordinate with either the previous house owners or your utility companies to ensure you’re on the same page.
We always stress this in our winter moving tips because people tend to overlook it in the whirlwind of the move.
4. Prep Your Car for the Winter Weather
If you don’t want to rent a moving truck when moving in the winter, take your vehicle of choice to an auto shop for servicing. Long-distance journeys involving ice and heavy snow can surprise you with unwanted situations. Having your battery, oils, fluids, brakes, and wheels checked safeguards against these nasty surprises.
Aside from the car running properly, it also never hurts to pack some winter supplies:
- Emergency kit
- Tire chains
- Tow rope
- Backup window wipers
- Snow shovel
- Ice scraper
- Plenty of blankets
- Salt
- Warm clothing
- Money
5. Watch Out for the Slip-Slide Situation
Our tips for moving during the winter also include preparing your pavements. Clear the walkways, sidewalks, and driveways at your old and new homes to prevent slips and falls. You can use salt or sand to improve traction.
Remember, a winter move is stressful enough without adding a sprained ankle or a bruised ego into the mix. Maneuvering your vehicle on a de-iced path is also infinitely easier.
6. Store Your Belongings Well
When moving in the winter, use bubble wrap to shield your wooden furniture and electronics. Avoid storing fragile items like glassware and ceramics in extreme cold as they become more brittle. Thermal packing materials offer a bit more protection.
Cardboard boxes are the classic choice, but they’re not the best option for a winter move. The wet conditions might weaken the material and create a mess. Utilize plastic bins instead for your most precious and fragile items; they’re waterproof and more durable.
Why not save yourself the headache and hire moving companies for big, expensive appliances? They will use the appropriate shipping container to ensure your valuable items reach your new home intact.
7. Plan Your Preferred Route Before the Winter Move
Account for extra travel time when moving in winter because ice and snow can slow down your trek significantly. Investigate multiple courses and keep a backup at hand in case of road closures.
The role of technology is a boon here. Utilize GPS and weather tracking applications to stay informed of real-time road conditions and adjust accordingly to minimize travel delays.
8. Dress Appropriately for Winter Weather
Another winter moving must-have is to wear layers. Dress in several light, warm fabrics rather than one heavy one so you can easily add or remove clothing as needed. Your outer layer should be waterproof to keep you dry from melting snow.
9. Don’t Forget To Keep an Eye on Your Pets
A new environment plus the winter cold can make your furry friends anxious. Create a safe, warm space for them at your old and new home. One of our tips is to keep them away from the chaos of packing and moving in winter.
10. Make a Winter Emergency Contacts List
Prepare a list of contacts that can come in handy during your winter move. It should have local authorities, the nearest hospital, roadside assistance, and the contact details of moving companies and city guides.
Include a reliable friend or family member you can alert in case of unforeseen circumstances on the moving date.
Professional Movers You Can Trust
Whether you’re a freelance writer relocating for a fresh start or a large family moving to a bigger space, uprooting your life isn’t a walk in the park. We hope our winter moving tips help make the process a bit more manageable.
If you would rather not spend hours figuring out how to clear snow, using ice scrapers, and carrying heavy boxes in the blistering cold, Auburn Moving & Storage has you covered. Since the peak months for moving are summer, and there’s less demand in winter, you can snag budget-friendly rates.
Save money, time, and hassle by calling (916) 786-8683. Moving in the winter doesn’t have to be a chilling ordeal! Explore more of our blog and discover the right time to move.
