Moving is generally a tedious and arduous task at the best of times. But add on the cold, wet, and often snowy weather we experience in Kelowna in winter, moving can get even harder. However, that doesn’t mean you need to avoid moving in winter entirely. Just follow these tips to make sure your winter move goes as smoothly as possible.
1. Hire Movers
Depending on the size of your home and amount of possessions, the decision of whether or not to hire movers can be a toss-up. But if you find yourself moving in winter, you may want to strongly consider hiring movers to make things that much easier. Professional movers have the experience and equipment needed to transport your belongings in all weather conditions, and having their helping hands on board will greatly decrease the chance of things going sideways.
Need a recommendation for a good moving company in Kelowna? Give us a call and we’d be happy to help you!
2. Be prepared for delays
In the days leading up to your move, keep a close eye on the weather forecasts and express any concerns to your movers and real estate agent. A bad storm could cause a change of plan, so just be prepared for that. It’s much better to err on the side of caution and delay your move to when it’s safer.
3. Plan generously
Along similar lines, make sure you’ve accounted for any potential delays or changes due to weather in your plans. Before your move, make sure you’ve checked out our handy moving checklist and see that you’ve covered everything. If you have a long drive, give yourself extra time to get to your destination. Also give yourself plenty of time for loading and unloading as poor weather conditions will always slow you down at least a little bit. Know your route in advance and check the snowplow schedules to know the best way to go on moving day. Stay aware of any traffic issues and be prepared to make changes on the fly.
4. Clear driveways and pathways
While you should generally keep your driveway and sidewalk in front of your home clear during the winter, be especially diligent about it right before your moving date. Shovel any snow and make sure all pathways are clear and salted. Keep winter tools like a shovel and salt on hand in case you need them during the move. This will make your lives, as well as the lives of your movers much safer and easier.
5. Pack carefully
Wet or snowy weather increases the chances that cardboard boxes could get wet or damaged if someone carrying them slips. Pack your belongings carefully by double-wrapping any fragile items and using re-usable plastic tubs or containers instead of cardboard boxes. Also, take extra care to protect your electronics from the cold so as not to damage the battery. Keep electronics with you in the warm car or wrap them in warm blankets to ensure they remain in good working condition.
6. Check that your utilities are on
What could be worse than moving into your new home only to realize your utility company hasn’t turned on your heat or hot water? Make sure your utilities have all been switched over on or before your move date so that you don’t risk spending your first few nights cold in your new home!
7. Protect your floors
If you have kids or pets, you’ll know that poor weather often means dirty floors! Adding a layer of protection will ensure your old floors are preserved for the new owners, and that the floors in your new home don’t get damaged. Lay down a roll of carpet or plastic sheeting, or tape down pieces of heavy-duty cardboard or plywood in all high-traffic areas.
8. Stay warm
Make sure you have warm layers on hand and not packed away for the move, especially a good pair of gloves to keep your hands warm. Finally, it’s a nice touch to make a thermos of hot tea or cocoa before the move that you can share with everyone when you take a break to warm up!
Moving in winter isn’t always easy, but taking all of these tips into consideration can help mitigate the stress that comes along with it.
If you have any questions or are looking to make a move to or from Kelowna, give us a call. We’re here to help and would be happy to discuss your move with you!
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Featured photo by Sam Beasley on Unsplash