There are advantages to moving in the winter. Since it’s considered “off-season” for movers, you can usually save money on rates and will have a wider range of available dates to choose from. Of course, you may face some seasonal challenges, but if you’re organized and plan ahead, you can achieve a quick and efficient move.
We talked to several professional movers who have learned how to do things the right way from experience, and they passed on some great tips to help your winter move go smoothly.
PRE-MOVING DAY
1. Slay with your mad prep skills
Don’t be the person who answers the door for the movers and only one box is packed. Here are the keys to getting it all done before the deadline:
- Separate your stuff into three piles: keep, donate, trash, then follow the directions on each pile and you’ll be moving so much less stuff
- Start packing! As you go, grab that Sharpie and clearly label boxes by room (in large print) AND list major items inside (in smaller bullet points) to enhance post-move findability
- Set aside personal items, medications and clothing you’ll need to keep with you as you travel to your new place
- Make special arrangements to move sensitive electronics, priceless or irreplaceable items, and computer equipment, if necessary
Wrap it up to keep it dry
When you’re dealing with ice and melting snow, your belongings could get wet if they’re unprotected. Since it’s a winter move, it might be wise to take the extra precaution of wrapping or packing your stuff in plastic or weatherproof materials.
Your movers are your friends
A professional moving company will walk you through all the pertinent questions and details to make sure your belongings make it safely to your new home. Keep the lines of communication open and be sure to check in with your movers a week before the move to confirm the pertinent details. And, since winter weather can be so unpredictable, also check back in a day or two before your move to make sure roads are open and it’s a go.
Encourage your fabulous inner interior decorator
Since you’re winning at the pre-planning game, why not take advantage of online floor plans to figure out where best to place your furniture before you move? You’ll be able to determine optimal arrangement and, on moving day, tell the movers exactly where to put everything so you don’t have to break your back moving it again after they leave.
Board your furry babies on moving day
Your destination is a pet-friendly place, but until you’ve moved in, spare yourself/the movers/your pets the headache of moving-day worries by checking with local kennels, vets, and boarders to find and book clean and heated pet accommodations on moving day…. because nobody wants to step on a little puppy’s tail!
MOVING DAY
Dress like your mama would want you to
You’re inside, you’re outside, it’s hot, it’s cold. Ugh! Do yourself a favor and wear layered clothing (like a t-shirt under a sweater under a hoodie under a jacket), then peel off or add layers as needed throughout the day. Also, love your feet – wear shoes that will give you traction outside on slippery sidewalks and will protect your toes in case somebody’s grip accidentally slips.
Make Safety Priority #1
You can take the lead to help make sure no one gets hurt during your move. Take the initiative to shovel/snowblow/salt any outdoor walkways that’ll be used (including driveways and even the street) so nobody slips while lugging that always-ridiculously-heavy sofa-bed!
Protect those floors
Think about all the people that’ll be traipsing through your clean new place from the icy, slushy outdoors and act accordingly. Protect your gorgeous floors before the move begins by placing floor mats outside the entryway door and taping plastic tarps over your carpets/hardwood/linoleum/tile. If you can’t find tarps, break down cardboard boxes and make pathways with those. It definitely beats shampooing the carpet minutes after you’ve been moving all day long.
Tip your movers
A lot of people don’t know it, but it’s customary to tip the people who have helped you transport your life to your new home. But only if they deserve it. If they were timely, respectful and friendly, efficient, didn’t break your stuff or damage either home, tip them around $5 per hour per mover. Go up or down from that based on the quality of service. And make sure to have the cash on hand and ready to hand out right when the move is finished.
Have you ever moved during the winter? Comment below to share your stories and tips for what worked and what didn’t. Please share this post with those family and friends who are planning on moving before the snow melts – they’ll love you for it.
Are you looking for a premium apartment in Anchorage, AK? Contact us at Alpine Apartment Homes today to schedule a tour and let us help you find your perfect new home!
Phone: (907) 561-2930