Moving house during the winter months can be challenging, with freezing temperatures, snow, and ice to contend with. However, with the right preparation and mindset, you can navigate the process smoothly and efficiently. Read our top tips for moving home in the winter now.

Plan ahead

Planning your move well in advance can help avoid last-minute stress. With fewer daylight hours and the strong chance of bad weather, it makes sense to give yourself extra time for packing, loading, and transporting your belongings. Plan ahead by creating a detailed moving schedule, booking your moving company early, and packing strategically to account for delays. Consider renting a storage unit to temporarily store belongings if needed, keeping only essential items easily accessible.

Keep checking the weather forecast

Keep a close eye on the weather forecast in the days leading up to your move. Be prepared for adverse conditions such as snow, ice, or heavy rain, making sure you have a strategy in place. This could include having extra blankets, warm clothing, and hot drinks readily available on moving day. We strongly recommend hiring professional movers who are experienced in winter conditions. This can ensure a smoother transition and reduce the risk of accidents or damage to your belongings.

Wear warm clothes

One of the best tips for moving home in winter is to wear winter clothing, including gloves, hats, and boots. Moving in and out of buildings can expose you to cold temperatures, making staying warm and dry essential for your comfort and well-being. Ideally, you should dress in layers. This not only provides insulation but allows you to adjust your clothing to help maintain a comfortable body temperature throughout the move.

Protect your floors

Winter weather can bring snow, mud, and salt indoors, all of which can cause damage to your floors. Lay down protective coverings such as cardboard, plastic sheets, or old rugs to prevent dirt and moisture from being traipsed through your home. Additionally, encourage movers and helpers to wipe their feet or remove their shoes upon entering. This can further minimise the risk of damage to your floors.

Prepare your new home

If possible, ensure that your new home is adequately heated and ready for your arrival. Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature to avoid entering a chilly house. You might also consider bringing along portable heaters or electric blankets to provide immediate warmth. Arriving in a cosy environment can make the transition smoother and more comfortable for you and your family, especially during the cold winter months. Additionally, you could consider having hot drinks and snacks on hand to warm up movers and other helpers.

Hire a professional moving company

Hiring a professional moving company can alleviate much of the stress associated with winter house moves. Experienced movers have the expertise and equipment to handle bad weather conditions safely, ensuring that your belongings are transported efficiently and securely. Whilst it can be tempting to go it alone and enlist the help of friends or family, professional movers can provide you with peace of mind that the move will go smoothly, especially in challenging weather conditions.

Pack essentials separately

When moving house in winter, it makes sense to pack a separate bag or box containing essential items you might need on moving day. These could include warm clothing, toiletries, medications, snacks, and important documents. A torch, batteries, first aid kit, and a portable phone charger can also prove useful in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Keep this “survival kit” with you during the move to ensure you can easily access any necessities.

Have shovels and salt on hand

Snow and ice can accumulate on paths, driveways, and pavements in winter, raising the risk of slips and falls. As a result, having a shovel and salt readily available is essential to allow you to clear these areas quickly, ensuring safe passage for anyone helping with the move. Keeping pathways clear can minimise the risk of accidents and injuries during the moving process, providing peace of mind at what can be a very stressful time.

Stay flexible

One of the most important tips for moving home in winter is to remain flexible. Bad weather at this time of year can throw house moves into chaos, leading to delays in some cases. Stay adaptable and be prepared to adjust your plans, if necessary, whether that means rescheduling the move date or making alternative arrangements for transport and storage. Being flexible allows you to navigate any challenges smoothly and ensures a successful relocation despite the winter conditions.

Professional home removals in Oakham

Since moving home in winter can be so challenging, it makes sense to enlist the services of a professional removal company in your area. At Metro Removals, we specialise in home removals in Oakham and the surrounding areas, helping families and individuals navigate their moves with ease even during the colder months. With our expertise and dedication, we ensure that your belongings are transported safely and efficiently, even when the weather is at its worst.

We always carry out a free pre-move survey to assess your requirements accurately and provide a tailored moving plan. Our experienced team handles every aspect of the move with care and professionalism, from packing and loading to transportation and unpacking at your new home. Moving house during the winter months can be daunting, but with Metro’s professional home removal services, you can have peace of mind knowing that your move will be smooth and stress-free.

Contact us

To book home removals in Oakham, get in touch today. You can reach us by phoning 01858 515 015 or by sending us a message via our website. Our friendly team are on hand to discuss your removal requirements in detail.