As you prepare to move into a new home, it is usually both exciting and stressful. Things are particularly challenging during the winter months when snow and ice can impact the timing and logistics of your move. With a little preparation, you can experience a seamless transition to your new home. If you are planning on moving in winter, here are a few helpful tips.
Check the Weather
If you are moving to, driving through, or leaving from an area that might experience snow or icy weather, check the forecast in the days leading up to your move.
Speak with the movers or rental truck company ahead of time about what to expect if there is a snowstorm. Do they still operate during regular hours? Will they push your move to the next business day, weather permitting? Working things out before moving day will help you be prepared if things need to be rescheduled.
Protect the Flooring
Cold weather means the possibility of salt and other ice-melt products coating the boots of the movers and your family members.
When you are coming in and out of the house, cover carpets and hardwood surfaces to protect them from damage. Tarps, plastic sheeting, and doormats will help make sure that harsh ice melting treatments don’t stain or scratch the flooring.
Verify Utilities are Connected Before Moving in Winter
It’s inconvenient when you arrive at your new home on a cold day to find your house is without heat and lights.
Confirm with the utility companies that your account will be active and the power will be turned on at least a day ahead of your move. When you pull up to the house on moving day, you can make your home comfortable, warm, and well-lit.
De-Ice Walkways and Driveway When Moving in Winter
Safety is important when snow and ice are on the ground. On a snowy winter moving day, start by clearing slick walkways, spreading ice-melt, and shoveling the driveway.
Preparing the driveway and walkways before the movers arrive will help the process go faster. When you pack your belongings, keep shovels and ice melt in a spot where they are easy to access. You’ll be ready in case you need to clear the walkways and steps upon arriving at your new home.
Be Flexible
When you’ve spent weeks or months looking forward to a big move, it can be frustrating to delay it even 24 hours. However, safety comes first when moving in winter. Be prepared to deal with whatever the seasonal weather brings. This may mean spending another night at your old house, getting a hotel for the evening, or stopping part of the way through your move until the weather allows you to travel safely.
Relocating is often a stressful time. Be prepared for winter weather and pay attention to the forecast to know what to expect when moving in winter.
Checkpoint Home Inspections offers inspections to customers around the North Coast of Oregon. Contact us to request our services.