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Moving at any time of year can be stressful, but it can be even tougher when you have to move during the winter months. Snow, ice, cold temperatures, and shorter daylight hours add a layer of complexity to any move. But with the right preparation and a trusted moving company, a winter move can actually go very smoothly.
Here are some practical winter moving tips to help you prepare:
Start Packing Well in Advance
Winter days are shorter and temperatures drop quickly. Don’t wait until moving day to start packing. Begin weeks in advance so you’re not rushing in the cold. The more organized you are before the move, the faster and safer the actual moving day will be.
Confirm Your Moving Details and Be Flexible
Weather in Ontario can be unpredictable in winter. Confirm your moving date and time with your movers in advance, and build in some flexibility in case of severe weather. Have a backup plan or alternate date in mind if a major storm is forecast.
Protect Your Floors
Snow, slush, and salt tracked in from outside can damage hardwood floors, tiles, and carpets. Lay down plastic sheeting, cardboard, or floor runners at all entry points in both your old and new home before moving begins. This simple step prevents costly floor damage.
Turn the Heat Off
Don’t forget to arrange with your utility provider to shut off the heat in your old home on moving day. Similarly, make sure the heating is turned on at the new place before you arrive. Nobody wants to be unpacking in a freezing house.
Check the Utilities at the New House
Confirm that heat, hot water, and electricity are all set up and working at your new home before the moving truck arrives. Arriving to find no power or no heat in winter can quickly turn a move into a miserable experience.
Clear the Sidewalks, Driveways, and Street
Before the movers arrive, make sure all walkways, driveways, and access paths are clear of snow and ice. Spread salt or sand to prevent slipping. This is a safety requirement — a slip while carrying heavy furniture can cause serious injury.
Warm Up Your Insides
Keep warm drinks like hot coffee, tea, or cocoa available for yourself and the moving crew. Working in cold temperatures burns a lot of energy. Staying warm helps everyone stay focused and reduces the risk of hypothermia or fatigue-related accidents.
Double Pack Fragile Items and Electronics
Cold temperatures can make certain materials brittle and more susceptible to breaking. Add an extra layer of bubble wrap or padding around fragile items, ceramics, and electronics. Screens and circuit boards can also be sensitive to temperature extremes, so moving them in insulated bags or containers is a good idea.
Keep Winter Essentials With You
Pack a winter essentials bag that travels with you rather than on the truck. Include warm clothing, gloves, boots, a phone charger, medications, important documents, and snacks. If you’re delayed by weather, you’ll have everything you need.
Prepare Your Car for a Long-Distance Move
If you’re driving to your new home, make sure your car is ready for winter driving. Check your tires (winter tires are strongly recommended), top up windshield fluid, and keep an emergency kit in the car with a blanket, flashlight, and jumper cables.
Make Sure Your New Home Is Set Up for Unpacking
Before the moving truck arrives at your destination, ensure the new home has a clear path from the entrance to each room. Remove any potential hazards, set up basic lighting, and identify where furniture will go so the team can place items efficiently.
Keep Mops Handy
No matter how careful you are, floors will likely get wet from tracked-in snow. Keep a mop and dry towels handy to clean up quickly. This prevents slipping hazards and protects your floors from water damage.
Moving this winter in Ontario? Bronte Movers & Cartage Ltd. has the experience and equipment to handle cold-weather moves safely and efficiently. Contact us today for a free winter moving estimate.
