Winter can be a great time to move! Since fewer people are moving during the winter season, you can save money on everything from apartment rentals to self-storage units. Professional movers usually offer promotions and discounts during the colder months. Winter also has some moving challenges you need to be prepared for. Here are some moving in the winter tips for making the process as easy and enjoyable as possible when the temperature dips.

Make Sure Everything is Ready for Move-In Day

If moving to a new city, contact your rental or real estate agent prior to moving to make sure everything is ready for you when you arrive. Make sure all utilities are set up and turned on before you move in. If moving in the winter locally, our first tip is to visit the property the day before and clear walkways of dangerous ice and snow. If you are moving items into a self-storage unit, reserve your unit in advance so it will be ready for you when you arrive.

Prepare Your Old Home for Moving Out

Clear sidewalks, walkways, and driveways of snow and ice. Use salt or sand to melt ice and provide traction. Clear the parking area to make room for dollies and large vehicles. You may want to lay down cardboard or plastic on high traffic areas in your home to protect flooring from dirt and snow tracked inside during moving. Make sure you have plenty of moving and packing supplies beforehand to save you a last-minute trip to the store.

Have Extra Winter Items on Hand

It’s a good idea to keep an eye on the weather and have salt/sand and shovels on nearby. It is always helpful to be prepared than sorry.  Make sure you dress with layers for transitioning between different temperatures during the move(We know how much work moving can be). Have extra mitten and hats on hand for your moving party. Whether moving yourself or hiring movers, hot drinks will be greatly appreciated by everyone helping with your move.

Be Prepared for Unplanned Weather Events

Even the most organized moving plan can be upset by a winter storm. Our final Moving in the winter tip is to make sure you have a backup plan to reschedule your move if it is threatened by winter weather. When hiring movers, find out if they have a reasonable policy for rescheduling in case of winter conditions so you are not charged for a situation outside your control.  Plan your travel route in advance and check with local authorities to determine if highways are open and safe for travel. Letting someone outside your moving party know your travel plans is a good idea. Let them know when you are expected to arrive and your route in case you get stuck.

Regardless of where you are moving or how much you are moving Storage Etc. always has your back and is more than happy to assist you in locating storage for your items during your move.  We are always happy to accommodate date you regardless of the time of the year or weather so don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Storage Etc!