It’s officially cold here in the Chicago area. Moving seems like it’s not that fun this time of year, but actually, there are certain advantages. For one, prime moving season happens between May and September – which means that it’s easier to get movers on the times and dates that you want, and finding a place may be easier or cheaper. Of course, there are problems, too. A little caution, foresight, and flexibility will get you through! And Elite Moving’s guide to cold-weather moving will help.
Take the weather into account
As your moving day comes near, make sure to check weather reports to make sure that you’re prepared. Of course, Chicago weather is notoriously changeable and often unpredictable, so you’ll want to keep that in mind. Remember to keep your cold-weather supplies easily available. You may need your snowblower, coats, gloves, and scrapers. And lots of towels.
If there’s going to be lots of snow, plan your moving route to include main streets that are likely to be shoveled and salted. If the weather is going to be bad, avoiding busy streets might be the way to go. Clear your sidewalks and driveways so that moving your belongings is less dangerous. At your new place, make sure all the utilities are working before you move in. Do this a few days in advance so you can deal with any problems before moving day. Make sure your car is also ready.
Take care of your people and pets
Some sites recommend turning off your heat during a move; we don’t, as we think a couple of hours aren’t going to be that much of a hit on your utility bill, and Chicago is no fun in icy temps. Still, it will be colder in your house because need doors will be propped open. It might be nice to provide warming alternatives for you and your helpers – a warm bathroom with a space heater, for example, or a carafe full of hot coffee in the kitchen (don’t forget cups!).
If you have small children and pets, do your best to keep them away from the chaos of moving. This will expedite the moving process and lower your stress levels – as well as theirs. Arrange care for your pets and kids in advance. Consider boarding your pets, so they don’t get underfoot or lost during the moving process. If you wish your kids to be part of the moving experience, let them pack and move their toys at the end of the move. This lets them feel part of the crew, but keeps them away while the big stuff is being done.
Take care of your things
Take shorter days into account, and get started early. Know what kind of action is likely to be happening on your street – will trucks come out to shovel the snow while you’re moving? Are there parking restrictions in place due to snow or season?
Snow, ice, and dirt may very well get into your car, your old home, and your new home. Make sure towels are available to wipe down furniture and boxes. Put mats or tarps down on your floors to soak up snow and water. Cover your boxes and furniture with blankets or sheets as you move them outside to minimize moisture and damage due to inclement weather conditions.
Be extra careful with fragile items and electronics. Electronics don’t like the cold, so know where you’re placing them and take care to keep them with you in a warm car. Fragile items can be packed with additional cushioning to avoid breakage. Remember that moving trucks may sit out overnight, so if your items can be damaged by cold you’ll want to make alternative arrangements.
Seriously, hire movers. Professionals know how to deal with this kind of weather. Listen to them. They have plenty of experience in moving, and they know what works.
Consider Elite Moving & Storage for all your winter moving needs!
Part of our job at Elite Moving & Storage is to advise you on how to make hassle-free moves, and we’re good at it. We’ve been moving people in Chicago for 11 winters now, and we know what we’re doing. The winter move of a two-bedroom apartment that may take you all day can be done by our professionals in just five hours!
If you’re moving in the winter, you’ll have to be careful and work out as many elements in advance as possible. You’ll also have to be flexible! Elite Moving & Storage can help – get an estimate today.