If you’re in need of some winter moving tips, we’ve got you covered. From how to remove snow to cold weather packing supplies, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about moving, self-storage, and packing in the winter months.
Whether you’re moving down the street or you’re new to Maryland, there are winter self-storage, truck rentals, and movers to fit everyone’s needs. To help you prepare for the big move, think of this as your go-to winter moving guide.
Confirm Moving and Storage Details
No matter which time of the year you’re moving, you’ll want to confirm the details of your move before the big day. If you have anything in self-storage or if you’re moving to or from a storage facility, you’ll want to make sure your movers know.
You can schedule a move from your storage unit, your home, or both. To make sure everything goes off without a hitch, give your movers a call to confirm the details. In the winter months, you can also check their contingency plan. If the weather is too severe, ask if you’re able to keep items on the truck overnight or confirm they are available the next day.
Stay on Top of the Local Maryland Weather
In Maryland, you can expect snow at any point in the winter. Your local movers will be prepared for this, but it doesn’t hurt to check the weather as the move nears. If you see temperatures are dropping or a big storm is looming, you can adjust if needed.
As moving day approaches you can also start prepping your fragile items for the cold or snow. If you have your other home already, you can make small trips with important pieces you don’t want to move in the snow or cold.
Purchase Your Moving and Packing Supplies
Once you’ve scheduled your movers and have your self-storage in place, it’s time to start packing. You’ll want to get your packing and moving supplies sooner than later. In the winter months, packing properly is even more essential. Breakable items, glass, or anything fragile should be wrapped. You’ll want bubble wrap, wrapping paper, and plenty of tape. Markers are also handy to let the movers and yourself know where everything is going.
It’s also helpful to pack and label your boxes by room. Also, to make moving faster on the big day, note the floor of the house the box should be delivered to. In the snow, cold, sleet, or rain, your movers will appreciate easy to read labels more than ever. To ensure snow or rain doesn’t wash away or smudge your writing, add a piece of clear packing tape over the label to protect it from the elements. There’s nothing worse than standing in the front yard getting wet, trying to find a label on the box.
Electronics and fragile items are even more delicate in the winter. Double wrap anything that could break easily in the cold. For dishes, you can wrap them and use a special dish box.
Dish boxes keep your plates from smacking into each other during the move. Use moving blankets to cover glass tables, mirrors, computers, and televisions.
Take Care of Your Pets
While your movers might love your furry little friends, moving day is stressful for family pets. To help keep everyone safe and out of harm’s way, arrange for your pets to be boarded or stay with someone you trust during the move.
If you don’t have anywhere to board your pet, crate them during the move. This will help make sure your pet is safe and they don’t accidentally get let out of your home.
Clear Snow Off Sidewalks and Your Driveway
During the winter in Maryland, ice and snow are common. To help keep you and your movers safe, keep your snow shovels and snowblower accessible for the days leading up to the move. Keep your sidewalks and driveway clear so no one slips on any ice. Purchase some pet-safe salt or sand to keep ice off your stairways as well.
Confirm Utilities at Your New House
Before you move, you’ll need to make sure your utilities are turned on at your new home. Call the utility companies to switch over the accounts to your name. They will want to know the day you close and the day you plan on moving. Be sure that this is timed so that the heat does not go out at your house to prevent pipes from freezing.
Have Towels and Sheets Ready
If it starts to snow during your move, you’ll want to have towels and sheets handy. Keep these items in your car so you can easily find them. You’ll be able to cover anything during the move to keep it from getting wet.
Everyone will appreciate towels to dry their shoes, hair, or any items that got wet. Sheets, paper, plastic, or drop cloths are also great for your floors. Use these as runners so that snow, mud, and water don’t get on your carpet or flooring.
Keep Winter Essentials Handy
In the winter, you’ll want to keep your winter gear someplace easy to find. This means hats, gloves, and boots should be in your car or with you during the move. Keep a shovel in your car as well so you can clear the way when your movers arrive at the new house.
Let Us Help Make Your Winter Move Easier
When it comes to moving in the winter, keep these winter moving tips in mind for the big day. If you’re using self-storage, it’s a great way to keep your items cozy during a cold-weather move.
If you’re in need of some extra storage before, during, or after a move, you’ve come to the right place. Fill out the contact form here to learn more about the storage options nearest you.
