Hot, cold, windy, or wet—regardless of the conditions, moving day is always a major event full of stress, planning, and, of course, packing. But when you add extreme weather conditions to the mix, it can quickly become even more of an ordeal than you bargained for. To make your move more manageable, here are 10 essential tips for surviving what Mother Nature throws at you while you’re on the move!
Planning Ahead for Extreme Weather
Planning ahead for extreme weather is key when it comes to moving during unpredictable and potentially harmful conditions. While some may opt for waiting until the last minute to reduce time spent in an unfamiliar setting, this can be a risky decision. It is important to consider the seasonality of your move, as different seasons inherently bring different types of extreme weather. Planning ahead can make all the difference between a relatively smooth relocation process and one that is fraught with complications due to unexpected storms and extreme weather conditions.
No matter which region you plan to relocate to, research and anticipation are the best approaches for attempting to navigate harsher weather conditions seamlessly. Planning ahead will provide peace of mind and assurance that the move not only goes well but that those involved remain safe throughout the journey. With these considerations out of the way, focusing on other pertinent details, such as scheduling movers and double-checking closing dates, becomes easier, leading into the next stage of planning: investigating the seasonality of the area you are moving to.
Seasonality of the Area You’re Moving To
When it comes to preparing for extreme weather conditions during a move, seasonality is a key factor to consider. Different areas that you may be relocating to can vary significantly in terms of climate, and this difference could necessitate a drastic overhaul in the way that you move. The most important thing is to make sure that you are consciously aware of the seasonality of the area when planning your move.
No matter what area you’re moving to, it is essential that you take into account the seasonality of your new region before beginning your move. In doing so, you will assure yourself of a smoother transition and minimize any hiccups that may arise from unanticipated problems posed by extreme weather conditions. With this step taken care of, all that’s left for you to do is research some reliable moving services for when it comes time to pack up and get on the road!
Researching Moving Services During Your Move
Which kind of moving services you choose for your move is a crucial decision, especially when extreme weather conditions come into play. Taking the time to research your options and review not just the cost and funding but also the services they offer will take away much of the stress of moving. For example, while comparing moving companies, ensure they offer packing and unpacking services if needed, and check reviews to see how their weather contingencies or alternate routes adapt to unexpected changes in the forecast.
If having full-service movers is too costly, consider researching alternate options, such as hiring college students or other types of temporary hires and renting a moving truck yourself. While these may be more labor-intensive upfront and require additional supplies such as boxes, dollies, and furniture pieces made for loading trucks like blankets, they could possibly save you a large sum of money in the long run as well.
No matter what option you choose for your move, taking time to plan ahead and understand all available resources can help keep your belongings safe from any kind of extreme weather condition. This preparation will go a long way toward creating an easier transition for you when it comes time to pack.
Packing tips for extreme weather
Making a successful move in extreme weather conditions requires dedication, planning, and efficient packing. Packing is arguably one of the most important steps in relocating in any situation, but it’s especially important to make sure everything is securely packed whenever there are extreme temperatures involved. With that being said, it’s important to keep in mind the following tips to ensure you’re as prepared as possible for moving in extreme weather:
- Pack clothes and other items with an eye toward space-saving efficiency. It’s a good idea to pack your boxes so that they stay closed, even if you have to make them extra stuffed. This protects the items inside from falling out should you stock the back of a truck on an incline or make a sudden stop.
- Put clothes and other materials in dust-proof bags or containers when traveling in windy areas. This can protect them from dirt and dust, which can be flung around when there are high winds outside.
- Wrap any fragile items in bubble wrap and newspaper before packing them into boxes. Again, this helps protect them against any bumps or vibrations during transport.
- Label your containers clearly; write what’s inside, where it was last stored, and any special instructions about that container on the outside for easy identification once you get settled into the new home.
- Make sure all breakables are secured; wrap them well to avoid movement inside the box, and tape the boxes shut with strong packing tape prior to loading them onto transportation vehicles or trucks.
Gaining an understanding of movers’ services can help you maximize value during your move, so it pays off to do your research!
- According to the American Moving and Storage Association, 80% of moves occur between May and September, when temperatures are at their highest.
- The US Department of Energy estimates that moving can generate up to 50% more waste than normal due to temperature-sensitive items that must often be discarded or replaced.
- A study conducted in 2018 found that 73% of movers experienced possible damage to furniture, clothing, and even electronics due to extreme weather conditions.
Gaining an Understanding of Movers’ Services
Now that you have packed your possessions, it is essential to gain an understanding of the movers’ services you will use. Hiring a reliable moving service is important in any weather condition, especially when faced with extreme weather circumstances. You want someone who has experience transporting items safely and securely, no matter what the weather brings.
Check to see if their trucks are equipped with necessary supplies, such as straps and blankets, to keep your possessions secure and safe from water damage. Additionally, if there may be snow on the ground, determine which type of vehicle is being used for transport; some vehicles are better suited than others for dealing with icy or snowy roads.
It is also wise to ask if they offer additional services, such as storage, if necessary. Should the weather necessitate you to wait out a storm or if there are delays due to road closures, a dependable moving company should be able to store your items until it is safe to travel again? Asking questions about the company will give you peace of mind, knowing that your possessions are in good hands before beginning the journey.
With all these matters taken into account, it’s important to stay one step ahead by preparing your current and future homes for unpredictable extreme temperatures before you even begin packing up.
Preparing Your Home for Extreme Weather
Once you are familiar with the extent of your movers’ services, it’s time to prepare your home for extreme weather. Preparing a residence to withstand harsh climates can be achieved through incremental improvements and tactics that are both cost-effective and sustainably friendly. This includes reinforcing windows to reduce the risk of damage from blowing winds and stripping outdoor furniture of its fabric covering so moisture buildup does not occur during inclement conditions. Installing durable weather guards on doors is also a great way to maintain a permeable environment for residents, effectively keeping the elements out of your home.
By making these simple but effective adjustments, one can be well-equipped to survive extreme weather conditions during the transition phase of moving. While some sacrifices may have been made in order to ensure optimal comfortability for residents, it is important to remember that taking such steps towards understanding what materials need covering or treatments will greatly determine if their move remains stress-free and affordable.
Surfaces and Materials that Need Covering or Treatments
As we move from preparing your home for extreme weather conditions to the next step of protecting surfaces, materials, and delicate items in your home, you must be aware of a few important tips. It is more likely than ever that surfaces like wooden furniture, fabric upholstery, window frames and screens, leather, and artworks will be exposed to strong winds and heavy rains.
If you have to bring along any hazardous material like chemicals or solvents during your move, make sure all containers are tightly sealed and properly labeled to avoid any hazardous spills due to strong winds or rough terrain. Furthermore, it is equally important that you keep combustible materials away from light sources while traveling, as they may ignite at a moment’s notice during extreme weather conditions. Lastly, by ensuring all fragile possessions are padded and tightly fastened within their boxes, you can reduce the risk of breakage even further during your move.
Getting Ready for a Rainy Season Move
When it comes to moving in the rain, preparation is key. Rainy-season moves typically require some advance planning to ensure a smooth and straightforward process. Here are a few tips for getting ready for a rainy-season move:
First, make sure you have added protection for items that can’t be moved on rainy days. Boxes put inside weather-resistant containers, such as plastic bins or large boxes lined with sticky plastic tarps, can help protect against moisture damage. Plastic films are also great for wrapping around objects susceptible to water damage and can keep your items in clean, dry conditions until they reach their destination.
Second, plan the move day carefully. Research the local forecast to pick the best day available so you don’t get caught off guard by sudden downpours during peak moving hours. You may also want to keep umbrellas or ponchos handy in case of sudden showers, and make sure heavy boots or shoes are accessible if thunder and lightning open up the heavens during loading or unloading.
Moving During Summer Heat or Winter Cold
Moving during the summer or winter is not for the faint of heart. For those living in more extreme climates, moving during heatwaves or cold snaps can pose an even greater challenge and require extra preparation.
Both extreme temperatures share their own unique set of challenges. On the one hand, heat can lead to dehydration, exhaustion, and excessive sweating, which makes unpacking more difficult. On the other hand, cold weather poses a threat to certain types of equipment by making them freeze and become unusable. Additional measures must be taken when planning either type of move to protect belongings and ensure the safety of yourself and your movers.
For those with the luxury of doing so, it’s highly recommended to choose mild temperatures when packing and transitioning properties. If you need to move when temperatures are soaring or dropping dramatically, taking extra breaks throughout the day, staying hydrated, and wearing layers are all essential preventative measures to consider.
No matter what climate or season you’re facing, knowing how to properly survive an extreme weather change can help make this transition far less daunting. With careful preparation and being mindful of all the potential risks involved, it is possible to get through these storms without missing a beat. Now that you know some helpful tips on surviving moving in extreme weather conditions, let’s look at the conclusion, which brings us full circle on this journey together.
Conclusion
In the end, both summer heat and winter cold can present unique challenges when it comes to moving. With this in mind, it is important to plan ahead, assess your needs carefully, and hire a reliable mover to ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible despite any extreme weather conditions. Doing so will allow you to not only address potential obstacles but also enjoy a successful move, regardless of which season you decide to venture into next.
Planning a move in extreme weather conditions? Division 1 Moving & Storage is here to make your relocation a breeze, no matter the weather. Our experienced team understands the challenges that come with moving during extreme weather, and we’re ready to provide you with 10 essential tips to ensure a smooth and successful move.
Contact us today at (571) 970-3189 to speak with our knowledgeable moving experts. Don’t let extreme weather hinder your relocation plans. Trust Division 1 Moving & Storage to handle your move with professionalism and care, regardless of the weather conditions. Call us now at (571) 970-3189 and let’s make your move a success, rain or shine!