How to Navigate a Move in Winter Conditions
Winter might not be the ideal season to move, but there are ways to make it more enjoyable!
Here are a few things to keep in mind that can help your move go smoother.
Protect Your Floors
Whether it’s rain or snow, the winter months often increase the chances of mud and water getting tracked into your house.
There are a few ways to ensure that your floors stay clean:
Pack doormats last so you can place them at the doors before the unloading process starts
In the months leading up to the move, start collecting large boxes and pieces of cardboard to lay down on your floors
Alternatively, you can purchase plastic floor protection film that sticks to your floors with a special adhesive. This product is available online and at many hardware stores.
Set Up Utilities Ahead of Time
Making sure your electricity and/or gas is turned on in your new space prior to moving day. This is wise no matter what season it is, but during the winter, it’s essential. The last thing you want is to arrive to a freezing cold home in the middle of January of February. If you can, make sure the heat is turned on the day before, or at the very least, first thing in the morning on moving day.
Pack a Winter Essentials Box
To make sure everyone stays comfortable on moving day, it can help to pack a winter essentials box with items like gloves, hats, and hand-warmers. Keep this box somewhere easily accessible, like in the car or the entryway of your home, so that everyone knows where to find it if needed.
Have Hot Drinks on Hand
Hot chocolate or tea can be a great pick-me-up during a move! Prepare these ahead of time and store them in a thermos so that you can warm up with a hot drink when you take a break.
Make Dinner Plans Ahead of Time
After a long day of carrying boxes, driving, and arranging furniture, you’ll likely be exhausted and hungry. It can help to make dinner plans ahead of time so you don’t have to brainstorm ideas at the end of the day. This is a great opportunity to try a restaurant in your new neighborhood! Make a reservation in advance to ensure you don’t have to change plans.
If you’d rather stay in, try a crock-pot meal! Find a simple recipe and prep it first thing when you arrive in your new space. Let it cook away in the background as you unload the moving truck, then enjoy a warm meal at the end of the day!
Prep Your Walkways and Sidewalks
While winters are fairly mild in Virginia, if you do happen to get snow, hail, or icy conditions on moving day, your outdoor walkways can get slippery! This can create a dangerous situation for everyone. Prep your walkways for your move by making sure they’re shoveled, then add sand or salt to provide traction.
We hope this list helped you prepare for your upcoming winter move! For more moving tips, check out our blog, where we share all kinds of helpful tricks from our 50+ years in the moving business.
