Most people prefer to move during the summer to avoid the chilly challenges that the winter months present. In fact, a 2017 Census Bureau found that only 15.8% of moves nationwide occur during December, January, and February. But for those making the move—and those fearing the move during wintertime—the season needn't stand in the way of your need to relocate.
If you’re looking to move during the winter months, you need to prepare differently than you would if you planned to relocate any other time of the year. From smart packing to a solid backup plan, here’s how to get ready for your winter relocation.
Smart Packing
Perhaps one of the most challenging aspects of moving in the winter is ensuring that you pack appropriately. Not only do you need to know what items are prohibited by moving companies, but you must consider what might be damaged due to the cold. Before you start packing, separate belongings that can be exposed to frigid temperatures and those that cannot. A few common items that can easily be damaged by the cold include:
- Antiques
- Artwork
- Clothing
- Dishes
- Electronics
- Glass
- Household appliances
- Musical instruments
To ensure that your items are packed properly, B.F. Fields Moving & Storage provides furniture pads that minimize the chance of damage during the cold.
Once you’ve arrived at your destination, be sure to allow electronics, musical instruments, and appliances to warm up to room temperature before using them. To reduce the chances of kitchen and glassware breaking, avoiding extreme temperature fluctuations by transitioning them from the truck, to the garage, and then into the house.
Plan For The Snow
Before the move, be sure to shovel any sidewalks, stairs, and driveways that may be covered with snow and ice. However, even with a path cleared, you’ll still have people traipsing through your house with snow and moisture on their boots. On the other hand, B.F. Fields protects your floors by laying down flattened cardboard boxes and carpet runners before the moving process begins.
While moving in the winter, remember to keep cool but don’t get chilled by the ice cold air. Any time the temperature dips below 31 degrees Fahrenheit, you’re at risk of frostbite, hypothermia, and in extreme cases even death. The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention reported that there’s an average of 1,301 deaths a year due to exposure to excessive natural cold.
Before heading outside into the frigid air, bundle up with your coat, boots, hat, and gloves and pack the car with winter supplies in case of an accident or other mishaps. Some of these items include:
- Batteries
- Blanket
- Bottled water
- Cell phone charger
- First-aid kit
- Flashlight
- Hats and gloves
- Shovel
- Snacks
- Windshield scraper
Schedule Accordingly
Possibly the most enticing aspect of moving during the winter is that there won’t be a swarm of people fighting for the same day as you. For summer movers, scheduling a move six weeks in advance doesn’t guarantee the date and time that you prefer. But when you’re transitioning during the winter, you’ll be safe to reach out to a moving company three weeks prior to the move.
Without question, there are some downsides to moving in the winter. For one, the hours of daylight are significantly slashed. Furthermore, transportation solutions company, Inrix found that traffic around the end-of-the-year holidays can increase your drive time by up to 300%.
Plan For The Weather
As your moving date approaches, keep an eye on the radar. Websites and apps, such as the Weather Channel, have features that provide an extended forecast, give you access to radars, and show you the weather in your starting and final destination.
The U.S. Department of Transportation reported that more than 70% of the nation's roads are located in snowy regions, which cause slower driving speeds, and reduced roadway capacity. Furthermore, more than 116,800 people are injured annually due to snowy, slushy or ice conditions. By planning properly, you can reduce your chance of delaying or damaging yourself and belongings.
To help protect your belongings and your family, using a registered mover can help ensure their safe delivery. Premier movers must complete a qualification process that includes a criminal background check, drug and alcohol screening, and road-safety certification tests. All of B.F. Fields Moving & Storage drivers are held to the highest standards by the Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety (FMCSA) Regulations.
Use Available Resources
Uprooting your life and transitioning your family into a new home during the winter months can be challenging. However, proper planning and the right moving company can help alleviate the difficulties. If you’re interested in hiring a professional mover to assist with the transition, click here to contact us or call us at (814) 454-2481.
