MOVING IN WINTER: HOW TO PREPARE?
We don’t always choose the moment of our move. And in Quebec, moving in winter brings its share of additional complications! The cold, storms and icy stairs are additional aspects to include in your planning.
Even if moving during the cold season has advantages (lower cost, availability of moving companies), the process is always longer.
But keep hope: moving in winter easily and safely is possible if you follow these tips!
WATCH THE WEATHER
We know that the weather is becoming more and more unpredictable. However, it is possible to keep abreast of trends in order to avoid stormy days. A good tip: prepare your route in advance to avoid traffic jams caused by snow.
CLEAR THE ENTRANCE
Plan time to remove snow and ice from the walkways and stairs you will use to move your boxes, furniture and appliances. On moving day, it is recommended to spread salt to prevent ice formation.
DRESS WARMLY
Proper covering is essential for a safe winter move. To avoid a temperature shock from going in and out, turn off your heating and leave the door open. This will help your body transition between the contrasting indoor and outdoor temperatures.
KEEP ESSENTIAL ITEMS CLOSE TO HAND
Boxes containing your basic items (food, utensils, bathroom items) should be placed last in the moving truck. So, if an unexpected storm delays the unloading of the vehicle, you will still have access.
Also keep accessible all the necessary tools in winter: snow shovels, sand or salt, snow brooms and scrapers, etc.
BOOK A PARKING SPACE FOR THE TRUCK
This advice applies in all seasons, but especially in winter, where parking space can be limited in places. If necessary, notify your neighbors the day before the move.
GET FLOOR COVERINGS
Moving is messy! And moving in winter is even worse! A good idea would be to equip yourself with floor coverings to protect your floors from snow, water and mud stuck to your boots.
PROTECT YOUR ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Cold weather and electronics don’t mix. Although most electronic devices can withstand the cold, they have a harder time surviving extreme cold and condensation. Be sure to wrap them very well to keep them warm and dry, and wait 24 hours before plugging them in again.
TURN ON THE HEATING OF YOUR NEW HOME
This is a detail that we do not necessarily think about in summer. But if you fall behind in hooking up the heating in your new home, you might not be able to stay there right away. Visit your new home ahead of time, and make sure everything will be ready so that you can move in comfortably.
In any season, the Brault Demenagement team takes care of your move quickly and efficiently. Contact us to request a free estimate!