Moving is one of those things that, while necessary, is despised by almost everyone. That’s because moving, in most cases, is stressful and exhausting, and that’s when the weather conditions are perfect! Speaking of ideal conditions, if you’re wondering whether people move during the winter, the answer is a resounding “yes.” The fact is, you can move any time of year you like! Moving during the winter may even be necessary.
If you have questions about moving during the winter, the information below is just for you! It’s brought to you by SecurCare, the self storage experts, who will explain everything you need to know, including how to find a moving company, top tips, and more! Read on to discover them all and ensure your winter move goes smoothly!
Why Move During the Winter?
Let’s be honest; unless it’s vital, there are better choices than moving during the winter. The main reason is simple: the weather. During the winter, snow, sleet, ice, and storms can make moving extremely difficult and dangerous. Indeed, many moves have been upended, delayed, or significantly changed due to winter weather. However, there are several good reasons for moving during the winter, including the following.
Your Home Sold
You never know when your home will sell once you put it on the market. If it happens to be in winter, you’ll have no choice but to pack up your things and move out once the paperwork has been settled and the closing date set. (The good news is that your house has finally been sold!)
Emergencies
Emergencies can arise at any time of the year. If those issues occur in the winter, and you need to move because of them, you’ll have no choice but to grin and bear it.
The Kids are on Winter Break
Children’s holiday break from school is the most significant reason Americans move during winter. Not only will you have 2 or 3 weeks to finish your moving tasks, but once you’re moved into your new home, your children will be able to start the year in their new school, making it significantly easier for them to fit in.
Winter Moving Tips
Moving in wintertime has several challenges, not the least of which is inclement weather like snow, sleet, and ice. While you can’t control the weather, the tips below can help you handle it and ensure your move is less stressful.
- Start planning your move as early as possible. The earlier you start, the fewer things you will forget, leave behind, or have to do at the last minute.
- Have your automobile serviced if you plan to drive it to your new home.
- Give yourself a few extra days between pick up and delivery of your belongings to ensure you arrive at your new home before the movers do.
- Keep a close eye on the weather so that you can stay ahead of winter storms or leave after they occur.
- Purchase salt to put on your walkways and driveways so your movers don’t slip and fall.
- Ask your mover to provide some moving pads or used boxes to put down on your floor and protect your carpeting from muddy or wet boots.
- Pack a large box with essential items, including warm clothes, blankets, snacks, and important documents. Make sure to mark it as “Don’t Move” so the movers don’t put it on the truck.
- Plan for possible delays caused by the weather and have one or two contingency plans in place in case you get stuck somewhere.
How to Find a Moving Company for a Winter Move
Finding a moving company during the winter is the same as any other time of year. Because fewer people move in winter, finding a mover should be easier. As with any other time of year, it’s best to call 3 or 4 moving companies and get estimates from all of them. Once you do, you can compare those estimates “apples to apples” to make the best choice.
The 4 most significant factors to compare are the overall price, the estimated weight of your belongings, and the estimated number of boxes the moving company will need to pack everything. The 4th factor would be insurance and insurance deductibles, which we suggest you look at closely.
TOP TIP for Moving in the Winter
Moving companies are typically less busy in winter because fewer people move. Most will be willing to give you a better price to get your business. Once you have your moving estimates and have chosen the mover you like best, simply ask them for a discount on their price.
Is Winter Moving and Storage Different from Other Times of Year?
The only real difference between moving in the winter and any other time of year is the weather. Other than the risk of severe winter shenanigans that hamper or disrupt your move (and the need to wear warmer clothing), there are only a few other differences.
SecurCare Can Help You Store Your Belongings in Winter
If you’re moving in winter, for whatever reason, and need to store your belongings between homes, SecurCare is your best choice. At SecurCare, we offer safe, secure storage units that can store practically anything, from a 1-bedroom apartment to an entire home. You can even store a car, boat, motorcycle, or snowmobile in one of our storage units! When ready, you can reserve a storage unit online in under 10 minutes. We hope this information about moving during the winter has been helpful and giving you the answers you were searching for!