You’ve got your moving day planned down to a T. Pre-move declutter? Done. Boxes? Check. Moving van? Booked. Change of address? Ready to file. But, no matter how experienced you are with moving or how much you plan ahead, there’s one thing you can’t control: the weather.
Moving days are taxing enough—especially when the weather is less than ideal. Being prepared can make all the difference. While you can’t stop the rain or snow, you can protect your belongings and ensure a manageable and safe moving experience.
We’ve got you covered with tips for safeguarding your possessions and keeping comfortable while moving in bad weather, whether it’s pouring rain, a snowstorm, or a sweltering summer day.
Five Tips for How to Move in the Rain
Rainy days have the potential to turn your move into a messy affair. Does the forecast show there’s a high chance you’ll be moving in the rain? These precautions can help you keep your belongings dry and intact.
Use Heavy-Duty Plastic Bins
While they can handle a few raindrops here and there, traditional cardboard moving boxes aren’t exactly wet-weather-friendly. When packing your most valuable and moisture-sensitive items, consider using plastic bins with tight-fitting lids instead. Unlike cardboard, plastic bins won’t become soggy or collapse if wet. Plus, they’re a practical long-term investment. They come in handy year over for seasonal storage!
Wrap Everything in Plastic
Not everything you own can be packed neatly and tidily in a plastic container. Invest in plastic sheeting or stretch wrap for items that can’t go in plastic bins. Before you load your moving van, wrap furniture, lamps, electronics, and even mattresses to create a waterproof barrier.
Rainstorm sprung up by surprise? Using large garbage bags to wrap boxes and furniture items can help keep your belongings nice and dry in a pinch.
Create an Assembly Line
How do movers move in the rain? The pros speed things up by creating an assembly line. If you have enough people to help, form an assembly line and pass items directly from the house to the truck (or vice versa) without setting anything on the ground. This reduces the risk of items getting wet and speeds up the moving process.
Use Floor Mats and Towels
Whether moving in or out, you’ll want to protect your floors from moisture intrusion – and prevent having to do any further heavy cleaning. Place old towels, rags, or floor mats at the entrances of your home and the moving truck to wipe off water and mud. This will not only help keep your floors clean, but it can also help prevent slips and falls.
Cover the Truck Bed
If your moving truck does not have a covered bed, use tarps to shield your belongings from the rain. Ensure the tarps are securely fastened and cover all open areas to keep water out.
Prepare a Dry Area
Even if your goods are wrapped in plastic or placed in plastic boxes, moisture could bead on the exterior. Designate a dry space inside the house or garage where you can temporarily store items before loading them on or off your moving truck. This ensures that nothing sits out in the rain for too long.
Six Tips for Moving in Snow and Ice
While you may have additional time off if you move during the holidays, winter conditions like snow and ice present unique moving challenges. Here’s how to stay safe and protect your belongings when moving in the snow.
Shovel and Salt Walkways
Heavy lifting and snow and ice don’t mix well. Before moving begins, clear all snow and ice from walkways, driveways, and stairs. Sprinkle salt or sand to provide better traction and prevent slips.
Protect Your Floors
Snow and ice can create a mess inside your home as people track in slush and ice. Use large pieces of cardboard, plastic runners, or old carpets to cover your floors. Once your move is complete, these can be easily removed and discarded.
Use Moving Blankets and Shrink Wrap
Cold weather can make wood furniture more brittle and prone to cracking. Protect wood furniture with thick moving blankets, then wrap them tightly in shrink wrap to keep out moisture and cold air.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
Moving in the winter can have you alternating between shivering and sweating! Dress in layers so you can adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day. Don’t forget to opt for waterproof boots with good grip to prevent slips on icy surfaces.
Warm Up the Moving Truck
Start your moving truck before you hop in to warm up the interior and defrost the windows. This helps prevent fogging and ensures a clear view during your drive. Additionally, keeping the truck warm can prevent damage to temperature-sensitive items.
Pack a Winter Emergency Kit
In case of unexpected delays, keep a cold-weather emergency kit in your car or moving truck with essentials like blankets, extra gloves, a small shovel, hand warmers, snacks, and a thermos of hot drinks.
Six Tips for Handling Summer Heat
Moving in the summer can be exhausting, especially when temperatures and humidity soar. Use these summer moving tips to stay cool.
Start Early or Move Late
You can’t control the temperature, but you may be able to control your timeline. During the hot summer months, the coolest parts of the day are early in the morning or late in the evening. Plan your move during these times to avoid the intense midday heat!
Hydrate Frequently
Dehydration is a serious risk when moving in hot weather. Keep plenty of water on hand and take breaks every hour to drink. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as they can dehydrate you faster.
Wear Lightweight, Breathable Clothing
Choose loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton. This helps your body stay cool and reduces the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Use Portable Fans
Battery-operated fans or misting fans can provide much-needed relief on a hot day. Keep them handy for breaks, or set them up strategically, like inside the moving truck or in entryways, to cool down quickly.
Protect Heat-Sensitive Items
Items like electronics, candles, and artwork can be damaged by excessive heat. Transport these in an air-conditioned car rather than a moving truck, which can become extremely hot. Also, consider packing heat-sensitive items last so they spend less time in the truck.
Schedule Frequent Breaks
Heat exhaustion can be a serious concern. Schedule frequent breaks in a cool, shaded area, and take time to rest. If you start feeling dizzy, nauseous, or excessively fatigued, stop immediately and cool down.
Four Smart Moving Tips for All Weather Conditions
Watch the Weather & Plan Ahead
Planning ahead is crucial, whether it’s rain, snow, or heat. Monitor the weather report closely in the days leading up to your move and adjust your plans if necessary.
Keep an Emergency Kit
Regardless of the weather, having an emergency kit with must-haves – think snacks, first aid supplies, a flashlight, and extra clothing.
Hire Professional Movers
Bad weather can make moving more challenging, especially when moving to a new city solo. Unless you have a solid plan and support team, consider hiring professional movers with the experience and tools to handle it. They know how to protect your belongings, move heavy items without breaking them, and ensure everything arrives safely, no matter the conditions.
Rent Your Furniture From CORT and Skip the Heavy Lifting
Bad weather can make any transition more stressful, but CORT can help make things easier. If you’re relocating for work, school, the military, or any other temporary situation, let CORT handle your furniture needs. Renting furniture from CORT means you can avoid the hassle of transporting heavy pieces, especially when the weather isn’t on your side.
You get to choose the furniture you need, decide how long you need it, and schedule a convenient delivery date. CORT will take care of everything—delivering, setting up, and even removing the furniture when you’re done. With CORT, furnishing your temporary home is simple and stress-free. Get started online today, or visit your local CORT Furniture Rental showroom.
