10 Top Tips for Moving House in Winter

Are you planning on moving house in winter?

Unfortunately, sometimes there is no alternative than to move in the colder months.

However, although Winter might not be the most popular season for relocating, it can offer unique advantages.

Off-peak moving rates and increased availability of professional movers is one advantage.

But the cold weather brings its own set of challenges that can turn a simple move into a frosty fiasco if you’re not prepared.

Being organised and proactive is key to ensuring a smooth transition to your new home during these chilly months.

From navigating icy roads to protecting your belongings and home from the elements, we’ve compiled ten essential tips to help you tackle your winter move with confidence and ease.

1. Keep an Eye on the Weather Forecast

You never know what weather is around the corner in the UK winter, so be sure to check out the forecast.

Winter weather can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to monitor forecasts leading up to your moving day.

Stay informed about any impending rain, snow or icy conditions that could impact your plans.

Websites like The Weather Channel provide up-to-date weather information to help you make informed decisions and be more prepared for whatever the weather decides to throw at you.

2. Hire Experienced Winter Movers

Getting the help of a professional removals company will ensure your belongings are in the best hands.

Choose a professional moving company such as White & Company, which has a proven track record and experience with all-weather relocations.

Their expertise can significantly improve the safety and efficiency of your move. You can book your move with us today.

Good moving companies use a range of tactics to combat bad weather and are ready to adapt how they conduct the move accordingly.

Protective floor coverings on wooden floors, carpets, and blankets to cover boxes and furniture while carrying to and from the house are just two ways to ensure that your belongings are kept clean and dry.

3. Protect Your Belongings from the Cold

Harsh weather can damage some items so make sure you are fully prepared to protect them.

Cold temperatures can be harsh on certain items.

Electronics, TVs, plants, and fragile antiques and paintings are easily damaged and will require special care in order to avoid them getting damp or wet.

Though your mover will do their utmost to ensure your items are kept safe, if you have exceptionally sentimental or special items, consider taking them yourself in your car.

Pack them into your car at the last minute so that you can keep them dry and warm.

4. Prepare Your New Home in Advance

Contact utility providers before your move to make sure everything is ready on arrival.

Transferring your current energy supplier to your new home in good time is even more essential in winter.

You want to make sure that the utilities are up and running before you arrive.

A warm, well-lit home makes unloading and unpacking more comfortable.

Contact your utility providers ahead of time to schedule activation dates.

If you know you are moving in as the previous occupiers are moving out, you could also request that they leave it when they leave.

5. Moving in Wet Conditions

Wet weather can cause problems so stay informed.

Moving home during the wet winter months requires just as much attention as it does with icy conditions.

Heavy rainfall can lead to waterlogged roads and unexpected detours, which can significantly disrupt your moving schedule.

Before your moving day, it’s crucial to check for any flood warnings or alerts along your planned route.

You can do this by Utilising resources like the Environment Agency’s flood information service in England, which provides real-time updates on flood risks in various areas.

You can also call Floodline at 0345 988 1188 for the most recent information on flood conditions.

If you’re in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, similar services are available through their respective environmental agencies.

Staying informed about potential flood risks not only ensures your safety but also helps you avoid delays, making your move as smooth as possible despite the wet weather conditions.

6. Clear and Salt Walkways in Icy Conditions

Winter weather can turn ordinary walkways into hazardous paths, making it crucial to address snow and ice before moving day arrives.

Begin by thoroughly shovelling away any snow from driveways, sidewalks, and steps at both your current home and your new residence.

Once the snow is cleared, salt, sand, or a commercial de-icer will be applied to these areas to prevent ice formation and provide better traction underfoot.

It’s important to note that clearing access to your property is typically the homeowner’s responsibility; moving companies usually do not handle snow removal or de-icing tasks.

On the morning of your move, inspect all entryways and walkways for new ice or snow accumulation, especially if it has continued to snow overnight.

Reapply salt or sand as necessary to maintain safe conditions.

Whether you’re undertaking a DIY move or hiring professional movers, safe and accessible paths are essential.

7. Dress Appropriately for the Weather

Make sure you are prepared for the winter weather with your outfit choice.

Be prepared on the move day to keep warm.

Perhaps this is an obvious tip, but wear plenty of layered clothing that allows for movement and warmth.

Set aside a small kitchen area where you can prepare plenty of hot drinks and soup.

This will keep the cold at bay while the move is underway!

Making cups of tea, coffee, and soup to fight off the winter cold is a small gesture that goes a long way; however, for professional movers, it is not expected!

For those undertaking a self-move, non-slip safety boots and gloves with grip are essential in preventing accidents while carrying boxes and heavy furniture.

8. Start Your Day Early

With fewer sunlight hours, it may be a good idea to get up earlier.

With winter days providing less light, it is best to maximise daylight hours by beginning your move early.

Starting early not only allows you to make the most of the limited daylight but also gives you extra time to handle any unexpected delays that may arise due to weather conditions.

Additionally, good visibility is essential for safety, especially when navigating icy driveways, roads, and steps.

Poor lighting can make it difficult to spot hazards like black ice or uneven surfaces, increasing the risk of slips and falls.

By scheduling your move during daylight hours, you enhance safety for everyone involved and ensure a smoother, more efficient moving process.

9. Keep an Emergency Kit Handy

Your emergency moving kit may come in very handy in the winter months.

“This is always a good idea whether you are moving yourself or hiring the services of a removal company.

Prepare a kit with essentials like extra gloves, hats, snacks, water, and a first-aid kit.

Additionally, consider including items such as flashlights with extra batteries, hand warmers, and a portable phone charger.

These extras can provide comfort and safety in case of unexpected situations.

Having these items readily available can be a lifesaver if unexpected delays occur, such as traffic jams, vehicle breakdowns, or sudden weather changes, on your way to the new home.

This kit not only keeps you warm and nourished but also offers peace of mind, knowing you’re prepared for any minor emergencies that might arise during your move.

10. Stay Flexible and Patient

Even the most well-planned events sometimes go wrong.

The unexpected is sure to happen when you least need it.

Build extra time into your schedule to accommodate potential setbacks like road closures or slower travel times.

It’s also wise to have a backup date in case severe weather makes moving unsafe on your original day.

Maintain open communication with your movers to adjust plans as needed; professional movers are typically prepared for such situations and can offer alternative solutions.

Being flexible and patient will help you navigate the unique obstacles of a winter move, reducing stress and ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Good Luck with Your Winter House Move

Even though you most likely won’t have a choice, if it happens that way, don’t let it get you down.

With careful planning and the right precautions, you can turn potential challenges into a seamless transition.

Embrace the season’s unique opportunities, stay organised, and soon you’ll be settling comfortably into your new home, ready to enjoy all the warmth and cosiness that winter brings!

Using White & Company for Your Move

While hiring a man and van or moving yourself are viable, house removals are best left to the professionals.

Contact White & Company and we will supply you with a free survey and quotation for your upcoming move.

Our all-star removal crews take pride in offering prompt, reliable, and efficient service to all of our customers from start to finish.

We’re proud to have served the residents of the UK for more than 150 years!

If you’re looking for a reputable removal company that can provide you with UK-wide, European, and International removal services, look no further—you’ve come to the right place!

For your added security, White & Company is a member of the British Association of Removers, the top industry regulator.

There is no time like the present, call us today, 01489 858294 or complete our on-line quick quote form or interact with our website bot.

Many people like to move home and be in their new property before the Christmas season.

Book early to avoid disappointment as it can get hectic toward the end of the year.

Book your move now, we are waiting for your call!

Max Peterson

Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.