Moving in winter can feel like a daunting task. There are plenty of reasons August is the most popular month to move house, and moving home in the winter months is far less common.
However, with careful planning, a wintertime home move can be low-stress. You might even find some unexpected advantages of moving close to the Christmas period. Here are our top tips for pulling off a seamless home move in the winter months.
Make the most of daylight
One of the biggest disadvantages of moving in winter is the limited hours of daylight available. Book your moving van as early as possible, and make sure all your packing is complete the night before, to take advantage of the limited sunlight.
Shop around for discount movers
If you’re using a professional moving team, you might be able to get a discounted rate because you’re moving outside of the peak season. Use a comparison site like Compare the Man and the Van to find a company that’s available for your move dates, and get the best deal.
Prepare for rain (or snow)
Check the weather forecast ahead of your move – but also be prepared for unexpected bad weather. Have a plan for getting boxes into the dry as quickly as possible, invest in heavy-duty packing materials and pack coats and umbrellas in a separate bag so they’re easily available.
Salt and shovel
If there’s ice or snow on the ground, clear it away before the movers start working. Travel ahead of your moving van, shovel any snow aside and then salt the ground to melt any ice and offer extra grip.
Top tip! Read our guide on keeping your paths and driveways ice-free this winter.
Take meter readings
Taking opening meter readings for gas, electricity, and water is an essential part of any move, but it becomes doubly important when moving in winter. As extra heating and lighting costs send bills climbing, make sure you’re not paying any more than you owe.
Plus, taking opening readings makes it simpler to switch to a better value energy tariff and save on your bills.
Save Christmas boxes
One advantage to moving in winter, especially in January, is all the extra boxes you and your friends may have from festive shopping and gifts. We always recommend checking with friends, family and neighbours before buying moving boxes, but at this time of year in particular, you should be able to score plenty of free boxes.
Protect your floors
Both you and your movers can track snow, mud or salt onto the floors of your new home as you come and go. Lay old towels across the entrance so everyone can easily wipe their feet while carrying boxes, and consider covering carpets with plastic sheeting or tarpaulins to keep them clean.
Include a kettle in your day one bag
Your day one bag or box contains all the essentials you’ll need access to from the moment you arrive in your new home. If you’re moving in cold weather, make sure it includes a kettle, mugs and your hot drink of choice. You’ll appreciate the foresight at the end of a long and chilly day when you can relax with a much-needed cuppa!
Make moving in winter simpler with Please Connect Me
Whether you’re moving in December, June, or any month in between, Please Connect Me is here to make your move simpler.
Our Connections Experts can handle all of your utility set up, register you for essential services like Council Tax and help you find the best deal on broadband, TV and more. Book your free call today!
