Top tips for moving home in the winter

Moving home is challenging whatever time of year you do it. However, it can be even more difficult during the winter months. All sorts of problems can arise, from snow and ice causing trips and falls to your belongings becoming damaged due to wet weather. Read on for top tips for moving home in the winter. 

Start packing early 

Since daylight hours are in short supply in winter, it makes sense to start packing as early as possible. Packing when it’s dark outside can be harder than you think, particularly if you need to sort out items in the garage or shed. Packing sooner rather than later will ensure you’re not still throwing your belongings into boxes when the removals van arrives. At Darvills, we offer a packing service, with our team able to pack all your possessions carefully and securely.

Protect your belongings

One of the best tips for moving home in the winter is to protect your belongings from the effects of the elements. If your possessions become exposed to bad weather, they can quickly become damaged. Mark sure you pack them in sturdy boxes, preferably in those made from plastic rather than cardboard. Plastic boxes on wheels are usually the best option during the winter months. Make sure all boxes have lids on to prevent rain, sleet and snow from seeping into them. Plastic sheets, blankets and protective coverings can help protect your belongings. 

There’s a lot to think about when packing your possessions for a house or office move in winter. However, when you hire a professional removals company, they may be able to take care of this for you. At Darvills, we can even provide packing materials for your move, making sure your belongings are packed safely and securely. We’ll ensure that they stay safe and protected even if the weather is at its worst on moving day.  

Plan carefully for large or bulky items

If you have particularly large or bulky items to move, such as a piano or sizeable pieces of furniture, it’s important to plan carefully. You don’t want them to be outside and exposed to the elements for any longer than necessary. This can damage them, often irreversibly. Your removals company will be able to devise a plan to ensure not just that they spend as little time as possible outdoors but they don’t come to any harm whilst they are. At Darvills, we’ve moved all sorts of large and difficult to move items, with our team of removal experts fully trained to do so.

Keep pathways clear of ice and snow

To help prevent slips and trips from occurring, make sure you ensure that pathways are clear of ice and snow. Make sure that entry points to your home or office are clear and safe. If conditions are particularly bad, you may want to put down some salt or sand the evening before. The good news is that most removals companies are accustomed to working in poor weather conditions and come well prepared to ensure they don’t slip on snow or ice whilst moving your belongings. 

Wrap up warm on moving day

Don’t forget to wrap up warm on moving day. You’ll probably be spending lots of time outdoors as you move your belongings between properties. You’ll make your move a lot more bearable if you dress in several layers of clothing, a hat, and gloves. Layering clothing means you can easily remove them once it warms up inside. Ideally, your gloves should have grips since they can stop items from slipping out of your hands in icy conditions. Wear sturdy footwear such as snow or hiking boots since they have grippy soles.

Hire a professional removals company in Halifax or Bradford

Hiring a company that specialises in removals in Halifax or Bradford is vital when moving house in winter. A reputable removals firm will have helped hundreds of people to relocate in December and January and will be able to help you avoid the pitfalls that often come with moving at this time of year. At Darvills, we’re trained to handle bad weather situations, making sure we come fully prepared on the day. Not only do we know how to safely lift and carry heavy items in snowy and icy conditions, but our vans are also fully equipped for bad weather. We come prepared for any risks, making sure we can move you to your new property without any accidents occurring.

Book removals early

There is generally less demand for removals services in the winter months. However, it’s still a good idea to book early if you can. Secure a removals company as soon as you know what date you’ll be moving, especially if you’re planning to move in the weeks before Christmas. Many people will be in a rush to move into their new homes before Santa arrives and dates will get booked up fast around this period. At Darvills, we recommend booking our services between four and six weeks in advance. Although, we may be able to cater to short notice moves in some cases.

Contact us 

Hopefully, our tips for moving home in the winter will help make your move far easier and much less stressful. To book reliable removals in Bradford and Halifax, contact Darvills. We offer professional and affordable removals services throughout West Yorkshire. Call us on 01274 963 057 to talk to one of our experienced removals specialists. You can also send us a message via the site and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can. We can arrange a free pre-move survey and provide you with a no-obligation, competitive quote.