Winter moves don't need to be disastrous. In fact, moving during the winter months can be advantageous. Most people plan their moves for the warmer months, which means moving companies won't be booked during the winter, and kids are out of school for winter vacation, which means you won't need to worry about mid-semester changes.
If you're making plans for a winter move into your new home, here are six tips that will reduce the occurrence of weather-related problems.
1. Hire a Moving Company
When you plan a winter move, you need to hire a moving company. You don't want to tow a trailer or drive your own moving truck during a winter storm. You also don't want to be moving boxes in the snow. Hire a moving company and have all the hard work done for you.
2. Plan for Weather Delays
Whether your move is across the state or across the country, you need to prepare for weather delays. You don't want to be left without necessities if your moving truck gets stuck in the storm. Go ahead and pack all your big things for the moving truck. However, while you pack your belongings, leave out the items you'll need to survive for a few days should the truck be delayed.
3. Double Check the Utilities
If your move is scheduled during the winter, double check with the utility companies a day or two before the big day. You want to give the utility companies sufficient time to activate your accounts and get service established at your new home.
When you know that your utilities are connected, arrange to have someone you trust go into your new home and turn the heat on for you. You don't want to arrive to a cold house in the middle of winter.
4. Arrange for Snow Removal
If you're expecting snow when you arrive at your new home, arrange for snow removal. You'll want to have clear access to your home, even if snow is falling. Winter moves are particularly hazardous when driveways and sidewalks are covered in ice and snow. Prior to your arrival, hire a snow removal company to clear the snow and apply sand and deicing salt to your concrete surfaces.
5. Prepare Your Car for the Trip
Make sure your car is ready for the trip. If there's a chance that you'll encounter snow or ice during your travels, your trunk should contain everything you'll need for an emergency:
- Road salt and shovel to clear the road
- Ice scraper and snow brush
- Emergency blankets and food
- Boots, gloves and jackets for each family member
The items on this list will keep you safe and prepared in the event of any roadside emergencies you face while you're moving to your new home.
6. Know the Parking Restrictions
Many communities restrict street parking during the winter so that snowplows can keep the roads clear. You don't want to have your car towed because you park in front of your home during prohibited hours.
You also want to avoid parking problems for your moving trucks. Before you move, call the city planning office in your new town and ask for a list of their winter parking requirements. If parking is prohibited on your street during the winter months, ask about short-term regulations for loading and unloading of your moving truck.
Don't get stuck in the cold. If you've got a move planned for this winter, contact us at Helping Hands Moving, Inc. We'll take care of all the details and get you moved into your new home quickly and safely.
