Bad Weather Moving – A Pro’s Guide

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    Moving your household is not an easy thing to do. But luckily, you found a perfect match for you and your loved ones. However, no matter how well-planned or prepared your relocation might be, there are always things that can go wrong. One of those things includes bad weather also. Even if you didn’t choose autumn and winter for your move, unpredictable weather conditions could occur during the summer too. Whatever the season, listen to the advice of Manhattan Movers NYC. We have the solution for you. We bring you a pro guide for bad weather moving. Read it carefully, and you will be more than ready.

    When is your moving date?

    Sometimes we can’t influence our moving date. In the situation of a sudden move, you have to land on your feet and adapt. On the other hand, if you have enough time, you can prepare like a king and execute a well-organized move. But regardless of the situation, even if you set your moving date well in advance, you cannot be sure that something won’t go wrong all of a sudden. Of course, when you plan everything to the detail, it is highly unlikely that something goes the opposite of the plan.

    A tunnel and a car under the snow
    Whatever the weather, your move can be successful with the proper advice

    However, you can’t really influence the weather, no matter how early you start preparing for the move. But, you can learn what to do if the weather changes. First of all, as soon as you find out that you will relocate, start looking for help. Whether that would be a moving company, or your friends and family, everyone needs to know ahead.

    Also, keep in mind that bad weather is not only over winter and autumn. Rainy days can fall upon you even during summer, as we have already mentioned earlier. Don’t get too relaxed thinking that the weather cannot rapidly change for the worse during the summer. And that is why you should keep an eye on the weather forecast. Be up to date on the weather during the week of your move. The key to successful bad weather moving is to act on time.

    Schedule a moving company in advance

    Speaking of acting on time, scheduling a moving company earlier opens a window for negotiating the best price for your move. This will cut moving costs significantly. Indeed, shifting homes during off-peak periods, such as fall and winter, can be quite beneficial. The moving industry sees fewer jobs during these months, and the competitive market keeps companies eager for business. As such, they often provide exceptional services tailored to your specific situation. However, if you’re planning to move in the summer, these companies are also equipped to handle peak-season relocations, ensuring smooth and efficient transitions regardless of the time of year.

    A woman labeling a moving box and preparing for a bad weather moving
    Prepare well in advance in case you must perform bad weather moving

    What’s most important is the fact that in all of the mentioned cases, the professionals will be ready for constant or sudden weather changes.  They will know how to react in each situation so that your relocation isn’t delayed or items damaged. That is why finding professionals that can manage your move is crucial. Let someone else take care of the bad weather moving while you have peace of mind knowing that your belongings are in good hands.

    How to prepare for bad weather moving

    When preparing for a move in bad weather, selecting the appropriate packing materials is crucial. Opt for sturdy, water-resistant boxes made of durable materials like plastic or double-walled cardboard. These will provide better protection against moisture compared to regular cardboard boxes. Additionally, consider using plastic bins with secure lids for added waterproofing. If you live in NYC, for instance, and expect bad weather there, you can always opt for packing services NYC. The professionals will know how to protect your belongings so that they don’t get damaged.

    Also, electronics and delicate items require extra care during a move, especially in bad weather conditions. Wrap them individually with bubble wrap or packing paper, ensuring they are well-padded and protected. Place them in specialized electronic boxes or containers designed to safeguard fragile items. It’s also advisable to remove batteries from electronic devices to prevent potential damage caused by moisture. Additionally, if you have bulky items, such as musical instruments or a pool table, consider looking for pool table movers in NYC. You wouldn’t want that rain or wind to destroy such a valuable possession.

    Rain seen through the car window
    Moving in bad weather can also be simple

    Waterproofing your boxes can help safeguard your belongings from water damage. Start by lining the inside of the boxes with plastic sheets or garbage bags. This acts as an additional barrier against moisture. Group similar items together and use plastic zip-top bags to protect smaller items within the boxes. Seal the boxes with high-quality packing tape to create a watertight seal. By following these packing guidelines, you can minimize the risk of water damage to your belongings and ensure a smoother transition, even in inclement weather conditions.

    Security of your load

    The packing process is a bit more complicated once you consider the snowy and watery environment. You need to secure your cargo properly. Most of the big items and furniture can be covered by a tarp or some sort of protective waterproof material. But what about boxes? You need to protect your boxes from leakage. Do this by securing the bottom of the box with extra layers of tape. Also, you can use paddings to strengthen the corners of your moving boxes. And be mindful of where you’ll put them. The floor of a moving vehicle needs to be protected with dry cardboard and blankets before you put your boxes down. Furthermore, be sure that the path from your house to the moving truck is clean and dry. You don’t want anyone to slip.

    Things can go wrong even if you cover everything and you’re sure that your belongings and everyone involved are safe. That is why you should consider purchasing moving insurance for bad weather moving. Moving companies have the equipment and tools to perform their job under bad weather conditions. But in case someone is careless, you should be able to compensate for that. Think of it upfront if you want to make claims against movers in case you are damaged in any way.

    A wet road between the trees
    Take care of the safety

    Your security is the most important when moving during bad weather conditions

    Securing your cargo is important, but much less than the safety and well-being of yourself and everyone involved. So, think upfront and raise the overall safety of your moving.

    • Supplies – If you can provide some protective clothing for your helpers, that would be good. Raincoats, hats, and gloves will be more than useful in this situation.
    • Health – Make sure that everyone is well-fed and hydrated. Bring out some snacks and offer hot beverages to maintain a good mood.
    • Environment – In case of heavy rains, try to pave the path from your house to the loading truck with cardboard. Also, in case of a snowstorm, clear the path from your house to the loading area. You do not want to see anyone slipping and hurting themselves.
    • Mental health – It would be good if you could catch a good night’s sleep at least a week before moving day. Eat healthily and drink enough fluids. It is important that, as a host, you stay in shape during relocation. A moving day is exhausting and stressful and you need your batteries fully charged to get through.

    The importance of downsizing

    Bad weather moving is not the only time when you need to declutter. You should declutter while packing for any relocation, but especially on this one. Check out around the house and inspect the items you are about to move. Some of it might be old and unused. There are many ways on how to get rid of unwanted items. Some of them are to simply throw them away or maybe to gift them to your friends and neighbors.

    Also, you can donate to a local shelter or make a garage sale a few days before moving. This way, you can earn an extra buck in the process and expand your moving budget a bit. Lastly, if you are unsure what to do with the bulk you do not need anymore, we have a solution. Consider renting one of the storage units NYC to place the whole situation on hold. Later you can decide what to do with all those items. Besides, the fewer items you have to move, the better.

    A woman making a packing list
    Follow our advice and prepare well

    Preparing for a move during bad weather is possible

    Undertaking a move in bad weather can present its own unique set of challenges. However, with careful planning, preparation, and checking the weather forecast, you can navigate through these obstacles and ensure a successful relocation. From choosing the appropriate packing materials to protecting sensitive items and waterproofing your boxes, each step plays a vital role in safeguarding your belongings from the elements. Remember, prioritizing safety and planning ahead is key when facing bad weather moving. By following the advice in this guide, you can minimize risks, protect your possessions, and experience a smoother move, regardless of the weather conditions. So, brace yourself for the challenges, stay proactive, and trust the expertise of professional moving services to make your bad weather move a successful one.

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