Moving
can be stressful enough without adding a snowstorm into the mix. So check the
forecast, get out your mittens and take the following tips for successful
winter moves into consideration.
Moving
Trucks and Wintery Roads
Hiring professional movers to get your belongings from your
old to new home is highly recommended if there’s a chance of inclement winter
weather. Handling your family’s SUV can be difficult enough in snowy
conditions, let alone getting behind the wheel of a rental moving truck or van. Professional movers have the
experience to safely deliver your boxes and furniture, regardless of the
weather. If you decide to rent and drive your own moving vehicle, however, keep
these tips in mind for driving in wintery conditions:
- Insure Yourself: Don’t take chances, make sure you have moving truck insurance.
- Adjust Mirrors: The bigger the vehicle, the bigger the blind spots. Make sure to adjust your mirrors before hitting the road.
- Remember, Your New Size is Big & Tall: When driving, keep in mind that you’ll have a wider turning radius than in a normal vehicle and that your truck may be too tall to fit under certain overpasses. Plan your route accordingly.
- Easy on the Brakes: It takes heavier vehicles a longer time to break. In addition, unless you have antilock brakes, you may need to pump the brakes when coming to a stop.
- Be Prepared for Skidding: If the roads are icy and the moving truck starts skidding, steer the wheel into the slide, take your foot of the gas pedal and avoid slamming on the brakes.
- Park Like a Pro: If you have to park on a hill, the cab of truck should be facing downhill with wheel chocks in place. If you don’t have wheel chocks, turn the front wheels towards the curb and set the parking brake. This makes the angle of the ramp for unloading less steep and, if there’s any slipping, the truck won’t roll into traffic.
Packing
and Loading the Moving Truck
If
your new home is in a city, your first step should be to check parking
regulations. You may need to obtain a permit to block off the street in front
of your home or apartment so that your moving truck can unload. In some cases,
the moving company will take care of this for you. Other times, it is your
responsibility to obtain the permits from your city hall. Especially during
winter moves, when the weather isn’t always favorable, you want to make sure
the moving truck can park as close to your front door as possible. Also keep a
sharp eye on the forecast, as snow storms can result in parking bans on major
thruways and streets.
Pack
your belongings with winter weather in mind by making sure all boxes are
properly sealed and furniture is covered with moving pads. Clear a path from
the moving truck to your home’s entrance to minimize the time your things are
exposed to the elements, and make sure to have a doormat handy so that movers
and family members don’t track snow, slush and mud into your new house or
apartment.
Moving
with a Cold
If
your move is coinciding with cold and flu season, planning ahead is your best
defense. Moving is a busy and, at times, stressful process, but don’t let that
hinder your sleep. Rest is key to recovering from a cold, so start packing far
enough in advance that you won’t have to pull an all-nighter come moving day.
During the chaos of a move, it can also be easy to resort to fast food and
quick meals like pizza. Although these meals may be convenient, they’re not
providing you with the essential nutrients your body needs to fight off a cold.
Make sure your move day snacks include fruit and vegetables.
While
the weather outside might be frightful, your move doesn’t have to be. Plan
ahead, prepare for driving and unpacking in unfavorable conditions and enlist
the help of professionals for added ease.
