It’s common knowledge that the biggest moving months happen between May and September. During this time, families make moves while the kids are out of school. So many people are moving that the options for home buying and renting are typically higher during these months.
But moving in the winter can offer important advantages. Before writing off a winter move, consider the advantages of moving during the “off peak” season.
Advantages of Moving During the Winter
Moving in the winter is going to be difficult if you live in the upper Midwest or the Northeast. In those locations, snow and cold temperatures could make moving next to impossible.
On the other hand, data shows that the states attracting the most new residents are in the South, especially Florida and Texas. These and other southern and southwest locations have some of the best weather of the year between October and March, making it a great time for a move.
Scheduling is also far easier in December, January and February. Moving companies simply are not as busy as they are in the late spring and early summer. That can lead to better deals.
When it comes to moving in the winter, location and the weather are the biggest factor. If they are in your favor, then consider a winter move as it may prove significantly less expensive.
Special Considerations for Renters
Another factor to consider is that in many major cities, the best time to find a deal on rent and make a move is in the fall and winter. Landlords push harder to fill units during the holidays and winter months, so it’s easier to find lower rents.
For most renters, their rent is their biggest monthly expense. While there are typically more rental options during the summer months as more people are moving, the prices tend to drop during the colder months. It’s a factor to keep in mind for renters.
No matter what you decide, make sure to hire experienced movers who offer all the services you need and provide you a free written estimate. You want professional movers on your side who will get the job done safely and efficiently.
Tips For Moving During the Winter
Keep these issues in mind as you begin to prepare for a winter move.
Research Weather
Find out what type of weather you can expect in your new location during the time you’ve chosen for your move. While planning ahead is critical to making a successful move, it’s important to also stay flexible in case of a winter storm. Move the dates if it helps you avoid bad weather. The truth is, bad weather such as a blizzard might force you to change dates, anyway.
Hire Professionals
Winter is one of the most difficult times of year to try a DIY move. Shorter daylight hours and the possibility of snow and ice make both carrying furniture and driving on the roads potentially hazardous. No matter how many friends and family members you can get to help you, you should at least research hiring experienced, professional movers who are trained to handle moves in all types of weather.
Pack For the Cold
While both your current home and your new home will have heated interiors, your belongings are going to be outside. The time spent outside depends on the length of your move, of course, but you want to keep that in mind when packing any belongings that are sensitive to the cold. This can include electronics, works of art and any untempered dishware.
Keep Warm Clothes Available
Sometimes in the flurry of packing that takes place during a move, people forget to have warm clothes available for themselves. Make sure to have sweaters, blue jeans, leggings, sweatshirts, coats, gloves and hats available to wear both during the trip and once you arrive. Like some of the basic kitchen items, you want winter clothes packed where you can easily reach them as soon as you arrive.
Protect Your Floors
On both ends of the move, make sure to have floor mats at entrances to outside doors and tarps over wooden floors. That will help protect them from the sludge that snow, ice and mud mixed together can make as people track in and out of your home. Also, you want to avoid having rock salt that is used on roads and driveways tracked onto your floors and carpets. Professional movers typically come prepared with floor coverings for high traffic areas.
Keep Walkways and Loading Zone Clean
Snow or ice on the walkways around your home, especially in the area where heavy furniture is being loaded, can lead to bad accidents. Safety should rank at the top of your list for every move. For a winter move, plan ahead and clean the walkways, driveway areas and loading zone areas where you expect people to walk the most. Then, right before the move starts, clean it again and keep an eye on it throughout the move.