Brrr! It’s fall and winter is just around the corner. Can you believe that some areas are already seeing some snow? If you are planning on moving in the winter, we want to make sure your move is smooth and drama-free. Here are several ways you can stay safe during the cold weather months.
Loading/Unloading with snow or ice underfoot
Walking on snow and ice is challenging enough on its own, let alone while loading and unloading a moving truck. To avoid slipping or falling, make sure you:
- Shovel snow or sprinkle salt/de-icer on the path.
- Wear shoes or boots with bumpy soles to help gain traction.
- Use doormats to keep any loose snow or water from making indoor surfaces slick.
Driving in inclement weather
If the roads are covered in snow or ice, the best thing you can do is to reschedule your move to a safer date. But if that isn’t possible, you’ll want to make sure you:
- Follow your state’s guidelines for road safety. If your state is closing down roads and requesting residents stay at home, you should heed those warnings.
- Drive slowly! Whether you are driving in snow or ice, there is no such thing as “too slow.” You’ll want to drive at least 10 miles below the posted speed limit. If you have a trailer in tow, you’ll want to drive slower than that.
- Leave at least 5 car distances between you and the vehicle in front of you. Allow yourself plenty of room to stop if the vehicle in front of you loses control or stops suddenly.
Staying warm
Dress in layers when moving in the winter. You’ll also want clothes that dry quickly. Lined athletic pants are a good choice. You’ll also want to wear 2-3 layers on top depending on how cold it is outside. As you get hot you can pull off a layer or two and still be covered.
Gloves and fingerless gloves are great for moving in the winter. Fingerless gloves keep your hands warm, but allow your fingers to be free to operate your touch-screen phone, if needed.
You’ll also want to make sure your utilities at your old and new home overlap on moving day. Keep the heat at a minimum level in each location to keep the pipes from freezing as well as providing a warm place to take a break during your move.
Emergency kit
If you are moving a long distance, you’ll want to make sure you have an emergency kit in every vehicle. This kit should help with emergencies like minor injuries, vehicle malfunction, and cranky passengers. The kit should include the following:
- Moving truck/trailer paperwork and emergency numbers.
- Insurance information.
- First-aid kit.
- Snacks and beverages.
- Basic tool kit.
- Portable cell phone charger/car charger.
- Hand-crank flashlight/radio.
- Warm blankets.
Check back for “Part 2” of our “Moving in the Winter” tips. Our second post will cover how to be comfortable and have fun during your winter move.
What advice can you share about moving in the winter? Have you ever moved during the winter and had a funny story to share? We’d love to hear it! Share your tips or thoughts in the comments section below.
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