You may have found out that you were being transferred to another state or country, and it’s the middle of the winter. While moving can be quite a task, moving during the winter months can be especially challenging if you’re moving to a climate that has inclement weather conditions. Moving companies are aware of these challenges, and moving during the winter months can be significantly cheaper than if you move during the spring or summer when the weather is much better. It’s a good idea to know and understand the situations that can occur so you will be fully prepared.
Prior to your moving day, you should take the time to prep your area:
- Make sure you have electricity and heat for both your old and new place.
- Make sure all snow and debris is cleared from walkways. If there is ice, make sure to salt or sand the areas of traffic.
- Make sure you have shovels to clear new areas that may need clearing.
- Be aware of the weather report for the day.
If moving yourself, make sure your truck has the following:
- Snow tires
- Chains
- Extra liability insurance
- Flares
Even if you can call the truck company and tow you in the event you run into harsh weather conditions or hit a ditch, it’s good to have these things on hand, especially the flares. If your emergency is at night, flares will help the company locate you faster and will alert other drivers on the road to steer clear.
Make sure you have:
- Map
- Blankets
- Flashlights
- Food
- Water
- Take-away box
If you are using a moving company, make sure they have adequate insurance to cover your belongings. Additionally, find out their policies for inclement weather, and whether or not you will be liable for any delays. Reputable moving companies take the time to formulate a plan with their customers in regards to what happens in the event of bad weather.
You may have a self-storage facility that you are transferring items to. Call ahead and make sure the weather permits moves to occur on that day, and ask the facility if they have sand or salt on their walkways.
It’s good to have a back-up plan in the event a storm comes through and you cannot move your things. Check with the moving company to see their policies on inclement weather. If you’re conducting the move yourself, find out the policies for handling the truck and the penalties imposed if you do not return it in the time allotted due to weather conditions.
Properly planning your move during the winter can assist in dealing with inclement weather conditions. Although difficult, moving during the winter is not impossible. Doing your homework and knowing the best routes to take that will avoid traffic and get you and your belongings to your new place of residence can save you a lot of time and money. Check rates and compare prices for moving companies and do-it-yourself companies to see how you will fare price wise. Good luck on your move.
