Moving is no easy task. Moving when bad weather is on the horizon can be exhausting. Even the best moving plans can run into serious complications when the weather unexpectedly goes south. But taking time out of your day to address potential hurdles you may be face, such as rain or snow, can help you avoid a costly disaster. Because there’s nothing worse than getting your furniture or other prized belongings wet, keep an eye on this checklist to make sure your belongings get to your new home dry and in one piece. 

Cover the Basics: Proper Packing

There are number of general planning issues that should be taken care of before the day of moving. Take care of these items before the actual day to free up time in order to deal with bad weather when necessary. One of the first things to do is consider average weather for the time in which you are moving. 30 days out you can start watching extended forecasts and keep an eye on these forecasts up to the day of moving. Getting moving supplies to deal with inclement weather such as rain or snow in advance will help the process on moving day. Ensure that you or your movers have adequate moving blankets, plastic wrap and cardboard. Ensuring that all belongings are properly packed before the actual move takes place can also free time to deal with weather issues. 

Know Your Weather

One of the most difficult moves is often done in bitter temperatures, heavy snowfall or a combination of both. There are many issues to deal with to ensure a safe and successful move. Transportation issues are the first and most important item to take care of as some moving companies can postpone moving day in extreme blizzard conditions. Keeping in contact with the dispatch of the moving company will help ensure that they are on schedule. The weather itself can take its toll on people moving so dressing in layers and setting aside one room that can act as a “hot room” with a space heater and a couple of folding chairs can allow movers and family members to warm up during the move as needed.

Before the truck arrives, ensure all sidewalks, driveways and pathways are clear of snow and properly salted. This can help prevent slip and fall accidents. If possible visit the new home the day before to ensure the heat is turned on and turned up for move-in day. Wrapping large furniture in moving blankets and plastic wrap will help prevent damage from snow or slush during the move.

Soggy Weather

Moving in heavy rain, although not as physically draining as a winter move, can often cause more damage to large furniture items than heavy snowfall. If rain is in the forecast for your moving day, have the moving company’s truck as close to the moving entrance as possible to shorten the amount of time items are subject to rain. Even with heavy blankets placed over your belongings, moisture can sour sensitive fabrics or leather, so keep towels on-hand to wipe up any wet spots.

Providing mats and anti-slip materials can help against slip and falls in the amount of water tracked into the house. Having extra towels available to dry wet areas will help clean up any water issues that occur.

When looking for local moving and storage services ensure the company is experienced in bad weather moves and can provide further advice and consultation on how to move in harsh weather. Because when you have to move you can’t wait on the weather.