No matter the season, moving to a new home is one of the most stressful and challenging experiences. When relocating during winter, the level of difficulty increases. You may have to deal with uncomfortable and dangerous weather conditions. Below are 6 tips to help you when you are moving during winter.
Prepare for the Weather
The weather is often unpredictable during winter, it could be sunny one day, and the next it’s sleeting and snowing. During the week that you plan to move, keep a close eye on the weather forecast. If you think that the weather forecast does not allow you to move on a particular day, contact your movers and reschedule. It will be easier for everyone to move on a day when the weather is suitable.
Clear the Driveway Before Moving During Winter
Carrying heavy furniture down a sidewalk full of ice and snow is very dangerous. You could fall and injure yourself or damage your belongings. Clear snow and ice from the pathway and driveway using a shovel and salt so that it is not slippery. Do this at your old house and your new one.
Pack Your Things in Advance
Most people wait until the last minute to start preparing for a move. As a result, they end up packing in a hurry and make mistakes. Give yourself enough time in advance to pack your belongings strategically. Pack items you won’t need any time soon at the bottom of boxes and keep frequently used items at the top. Use plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes if possible. If cardboard boxes get wet, they are likely to fall apart while you are moving.
Waterproof Your Things
When you are packing up the house, don’t forget the possibility of precipitation and freezing temperatures. Assure that all your belongings are protected by waterproofing them. Use bubble wrap, plastic wraps, and plastic bags to pack your belongings and smaller electronic devices. Let the professionals pack the larger electronics. They are more experienced and better equipped to handle them.
Prepare the New House Before Moving In
This should be a priority on your to-do list. Take care of every matter related to the new house and guarantee that it is ready for occupancy. Have all the utilities scheduled to be on by your move-in date. Make sure the heating system is working properly. Schedule repairs in advance to avoid inconvenience when moving in. Visit the house one day before moving in and set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature so that the home can be cozy and warm for your family while moving in.
Keep Warm When Moving During Winter
When moving day comes, have extra coats, hats, scarves, and gloves available for everyone in your family. These will come in handy in case what you are wearing gets wet. Keep snacks and drinks accessible so that everyone stays energized and hydrated. Don’t pack your coffee maker, and instead plug it in at the new house right away to have hot coffee available. Have plenty of blankets in the car to keep children and pets warm.
Moving during the cold season is challenging but possible with proper planning. Even though the movers often take care of most things when relocating, there are tasks you can take care of in advance to make moving during winter an easier task.
Buyer’s Edge, LLC provides home inspection services throughout western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina. Contact us to book your inspection appointment.