Moving homes is stressful enough without bad weather making it worse. Rain, snow, and wind can turn your move into a nightmare if you’re not prepared. But don’t worry, this blog has got your back with 7 essential tips for moving safely in harsh conditions.
We’ve all been there – lugging boxes through a downpour, watching anxiously as winds whip around fragile items, or trudging through knee-deep snow. It’s a moving day from hell. But a little planning and know-how can save you a world of trouble.
These tips come straight from the trenches of bad weather moves. We’re talking about real-life experiences and hard-won wisdom from storm survivors. There’s everything from waterproofing tricks to smart strategies for clearing paths and gaining traction.
Getting an early start, dressing for the conditions, and having backup plans are just a few of the simple but crucial tips you’ll find here.
Let’s get started so you can cross “moving in bad weather” off your bucket list!
Smooth Sailing: 7 Stormy Day Moving Hacks for Moving Day Rain or Shine
Moving in bad weather is stressful enough without Mother Nature throwing you a curveball. But with some clever planning and creative hacks, you can sail through even the wildest dangerous conditions on moving day. These 7 essential tips will keep you moving during adverse weather smooth and on track. No matter if it’s raining cats and dogs or a blizzard hits.
1. Get an Early Start
They say the early bird gets the worm, but for movers, it catches the best weather window too! Plan to get that truck loaded up first thing while conditions are most mild. Those crack-of-dawn hours may be brutal. But they give you way more flexibility if the weather takes a turn later. A head start puts you ahead of any storms rolling in.
2. Waterproof Protection is a Must
Unless you want your belongings swimming in a sea of Mother Nature’s wrath, invest in quality waterproof protection. Heavy duty plastic covers, bins with tightly sealed lids, and mattress bags are wise purchases. For added security, line the inside of boxes with common shower curtain liners too. And don’t forget jumbo tarps to keep furniture dry while loading and unloading.
3. Map Your Routes Carefully
Do a walkthrough at both addresses well in advance to map out the smoothest paths for your moving crew. You’ll want wide, flat stretches with minimal obstacles that can be easily cleared of snow or standing water. Use rubber runners or plywood on any slick outdoor surfaces to avoid wipeouts. A little pre-planning prevents lots of hazards.
4. Dress the Part in Proper Attire
This is no day for shorts and flip-flops! Make sure everyone has quality waterproof boots with good tread. Stock up on rain ponchos or waterproof jackets that’ll keep your top half dry too.
Rotate dry gloves, hats, socks and cold climate moving precautions. So your moving crew stays warm and has a firm grip. Hand warmers are cheap and compact life-savers if it’s bone-chilling out!
5. Enlist an Army of Helpers
Many hands make light work, especially in inclement weather moving. The more crew members you can recruit, the quicker you’ll get in and out of the elements. Hire insured professional movers if possible, and rally every able-bodied family member or friend you can. A solid rotation helps prevent burnout and lets everyone take shelter breaks.
6. Equip Your Arsenal Wisely
Make sure you’ve got all the proper supplies and gear on hand. Tire chains for the truck provide serious traction on slick roads. Cat litter or sand can add grit anywhere it’s needed. Have a small tent set up to shelter belongings in the truck bay. And stock up on high-calorie snacks and warm drinks to keep your energy levels high.
7. Have a Solid Plan B Ready
When wild weather just won’t let up, it’s time for wet weather relocation tips. Have a list of hotels and storage units at the ready, just in case you need to retreat. Try loading the truck in strategic phases, securing what’s inside before taking a weather break. Extreme weather moving strategies may mean calling it quits for the day and finishing the job when the skies are clear.
Bring it on, Mother Nature!
When wild weather threatens to rain on your moving parade, don’t panic! With the right game plan and an unshakable spirit, you can move mountains (or at least houses) regardless of what rolls in. Stay cool, keep those creative juices flowing, and lean on these stormy day hacks.
You’ve got all the tips and tricks to transform an inclement weather nightmare into a smooth sailing success story. Challenging? Yeah. Impossible? Absolutely not! Embrace the adventure with a positive attitude and a touch of humor.
So what’s ya waiting for?
Reach out to our team at Ready to Move for top-notch packing and relocation services that’ll make Mother Nature’s tantrum a mere drizzle. We’ve got your back through whatever she dishes out!
Also Read, The Benefits Of Hiring A Moving Company To Relocate In The Rain
FAQ’s
What's the best way to protect my belongings from rain or snow during a move?
How can I ensure safe footing for the moving crew in slippery conditions?
Map out paths with minimal obstacles and clear any snow or standing water. Use rubber runners, plywood, or cat litter/sand for added traction on slick surfaces.
Is it better to postpone the move if extreme weather is forecast?
Have a backup plan, but don’t automatically cancel it. Load the truck in phases and be prepared to take shelter or pause if conditions become dangerous.
What essential clothing items should movers wear in cold or wet weather?
Waterproof boots with good tread, warm layers that can be rotated, rain ponchos/jackets, dry gloves, hats, and hand warmers for frigid temperatures.
How can I keep the moving crew's energy levels up in harsh conditions?
Stock up on high-calorie snacks and warm beverages. Enlist enough helpers to allow frequent, sheltered breaks from the elements.