Winter Moving Tips and Supplies For A Safe Cold-Weather Move
Moving during winter presents unique challenges, including snow and ice, as well as cold and damp conditions. Having the proper winter moving supplies can make all the difference in keeping your belongings protected and ensuring your move runs smoothly and on time. For example, professional movers recommend double-packing fragile items, such as electronics and glassware, that are susceptible to damage from extreme weather.
You may want to consider hiring professional movers for your winter move if you live in or are moving to a state that experiences extreme weather. It's worth the investment if you're moving to the Midwest in the middle of winter, for example. Either way, ask your moving company how much experience they have moving in winter conditions. Professional movers are better equipped to handle the heavy lifting while safely navigating slippery paths and icy roads.
Having extra help, whether from professional movers or close friends, can make a big difference. So grab your gloves and warm boots—here are the essential supplies for a successful cold-weather move.
Weatherproof Moving Boxes And Containers
When moving in winter, protecting your items from snow, rain, and moisture is critical. Weatherproof plastic bins and containers are more durable than cardboard boxes in some cases, but they are waterproof, making them ideal for use in rainy weather moves. However, they are also more expensive. The most popular type of moving box, cardboard boxes, are recyclable and readily available in bulk. Plastic bins are worth an extra investment for some types of storage. For example, they are reusable and durable, making them ideal for packing and storing items you plan to keep in your garage.
With StorQuest, you can order your winter moving and packing supplies like tape, nylon rope, and furniture covers—all from the comfort of your cozy home. This convenience will make you feel relieved and prepared for your winter move.
Snow and Ice Removal Tools For A Safer Winter Move
By planning ahead and having de-icer and snow-removal tools on hand, you'll make your winter move smoother, safer, and far less stressful. Shovels and ice scrapers will help clear paths and car windows quickly, while rock salt or ice melt can reduce slipping hazards. For long-distance moves, consider keeping extra bags of ice melt and other supplies on hand to keep paths clear between trips from the moving truck or car to your new home.
Sturdy Dish Packs For Safely Moving Your Fragile Items In Winter
Winter moves can put fragile items at greater risk if the weather drops to freezing conditions. Sturdy dish packs are pricey but let you double-wrap fragile glassware and plates. These oversized moving boxes are also built with a double layer of corrugated cardboard, making them strong enough to protect heavy dishes and other breakables even in chilly, slippery conditions. To give you an idea, dish packs are usually around 18 "x18 "x28" with 5.2 cubic feet of interior space, including a foldable cardboard cell kit that divides the box into sections to hold individual plates, glasses, or collectibles securely.
Wardrobe Boxes To Keep Your Clothes Dry During A Winter Move
Protecting your clothing from cold, damp, or snowy conditions is also important during a winter move. Wardrobe boxes are another type of specialty moving box designed to transport your wardrobe on hangers, offering added protection against moisture to keep coats, sweaters, and other cold-weather essentials clean, dry, and ready to wear. These boxes are around 24" x 21" x 49" and feature a 24" metal bar for hanging clothes. These boxes are a favorite because they let you transfer your entire wardrobe directly from the closet into the box, saving time and keeping garments wrinkle-free and dry during your move.
Waterproof Mattress Covers To Protect Your Bed During A Winter Move
When moving in winter, protecting your mattress from snow, water, and dirt is essential. Waterproof mattress covers (also called mattress bags) are the perfect solution to keep your bed clean and dry during transport and storage. Heavy-duty mattress bags accommodate all standard-size mattresses, and each box spring requires its own bag. Made from durable plastic, mattress bags are tough enough to prevent tears and can be used to protect other items during your move, including small loveseats, cushions, and pillows.
Emergency Supplies And Safety Gear
Don't forget to include an emergency kit in your winter moving supplies. Packed with essentials like flashlights, a first-aid kit, and non-slip shoe grips, this kit can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations. Also, consider adding kitty litter for traction and an extra phone charger. Keep these supplies in a sturdy plastic tote with a handle, along with your tape guns, large permanent markers for labeling boxes, painters' tape, and scissors. This way, you'll have everything you need in one spot that can travel room to room with you as you wrap up last-minute packing.
Winter Moving Supplies And Packing Tips For A Safe Cold-Weather Move
If you're moving during winter and planning to encounter rainy weather or snow- and ice-covered sidewalks, the right winter moving supplies can make your move safer and less stressful. Here are essential winter packing tips to help protect your belongings, help you plan ahead, and keep your move on track:
- Moving Blankets and Towels: Keep a supply of moving blankets or thick towels to cover boxes and furniture if a sudden snowstorm or rain occurs during transport.
- Plastic Boxes and Bins: Store important paperwork, electronics, and other sensitive items in plastic containers to protect them from moisture and freezing temperatures.
- Prepare Appliances and Electronics: Take extra precautions with appliances and electronics, ensuring they're not exposed to cold weather for any longer than necessary.
- Create Safe Walkways: De-ice driveways, steps, and pathways to prevent slips and falls while loading and unloading your moving truck.
- Protect Books and Paper Goods: Keep books, magazines, and other paper-based items in specialty boxes and label them with instructions to load them last and unpack them first to help prevent moisture damage or warping in cold weather.
- Bubble Wrap Dishes and Glassware: Double-wrap fragile kitchen items and avoid leaving them in a cold moving truck for long periods to prevent cracks or breaks. Also, label these boxes to be loaded last and unpacked first.
By combining these winter packing strategies with the right winter moving supplies, you'll safeguard your belongings and make your cold-weather move more efficient and less stressful.
Make Your Move With StorQuest
Moving during winter can present unique challenges. We make it easy to protect your belongings and stay organized with climate-controlled units, durable packing supplies, and extended access hours. With convenient facilities designed to fit your lifestyle, you'll have more time to focus on what's next. Find your local StorQuest to simplify your moving and storage needs today!