Winter Moving Tips are a necessity for anyone brave enough to change homes during our coldest months. We understand that snow and ice make a busy day much more difficult and potentially dangerous for your family. Our team observes that the biggest risks during a cold-weather move are slips on icy driveways and damage to electronics. Because temperatures can drop far below zero, your belongings need extra protection from the freezing air. We want to help you prepare your home and your boxes so the snow does not slow you down. By planning ahead for the weather, you can keep your new floors clean and your helpers safe from the cold. We believe that a successful winter move starts with a clear path and a warm plan for everyone involved.
Clearing Paths and Ensuring Traction
The most important step for a safe winter move is making sure the walking paths are completely clear of snow. We find that a thin layer of ice on the stairs can lead to serious injuries when someone is carrying a heavy sofa. Consequently, you should shovel and salt your driveway and the sidewalk at both your old and new houses. Furthermore, you should keep a bag of sand or salt handy in your car to use throughout the day as new snow falls. Our team suggests clearing a wide enough path so two people can walk side-by-side with large items comfortably. Taking twenty minutes to clear the ice saves hours of delay and prevents painful accidents. We prioritize safety above all else when the Calgary weather turns white and windy.
Protecting Your Floors from Slush and Salt
Moving in the winter means people will be walking in and out of your house with wet, salty boots. We see that salt and melted snow can quickly ruin hardwood floors or stain expensive carpets in just a few hours. To prevent this, we suggest laying down heavy floor runners or flattened cardboard boxes in all high-traffic hallways. You should also set up a dedicated “boot station” at the entrance where helpers can wipe their feet or change shoes. Moreover, using plastic wrap on the bottom of furniture legs prevents them from soaking up moisture from the wet ground. Our team works hard to keep your new home as clean as it was when you got the keys. Proper floor protection is the best way to avoid a massive cleaning bill after you finish unpacking.
Handling Electronics in Freezing Temperatures
High-end electronics like televisions and computers are very sensitive to extreme cold and sudden changes in temperature. We find that the internal components can become brittle in sub-zero weather and might crack if they are moved roughly. Furthermore, when you bring a freezing cold TV into a warm living room, condensation can form inside the screen and cause a short circuit. Our team recommends packing electronics in their original boxes with plenty of static-free padding for extra insulation. You should also wait at least two or three hours before plugging in any electronic device once it is inside the new house. This allows the internal parts to reach room temperature safely and lets any moisture evaporate. Protecting your technology is a vital part of our winter transition strategy.
Staying Warm and Keeping Morale High
A long day in the cold can drain your energy and make the moving process feel much more exhausting than usual. We observe that providing warm drinks like coffee or hot chocolate helps keep everyone focused and moving quickly. You should also ensure that the heat is turned on at your new house before the truck arrives so you have a warm place to rest. Furthermore, we suggest dressing in layers so you can stay warm outside but stay cool while lifting heavy boxes inside. Our team wears specialized gear to handle the Calgary cold, but we always appreciate a warm spot to stage the furniture. We are the Best Moving Company in Calgary for navigating the challenges of our mountain climate with a smile. If the forecast looks snowy, please Contact Us to see how we manage winter relocation safely.
FAQ
Should I cancel my move if it snows?
We rarely cancel moves due to snow because we are used to Calgary winters. As long as the roads are open and the driveways are clear, we can get the job done.
How do I protect my mattress from snow?
We use heavy-duty plastic mattress bags to seal your bed completely. This prevents any moisture or road salt from touching the fabric during the carry to the truck.
Does cold weather make boxes break?
Cardboard can become a bit more brittle in the extreme cold. We suggest using high-quality tape and avoiding overfilling boxes so they stay strong in the freezing air.
What is the best way to melt ice quickly?
Using a mixture of salt and sand provides both melting power and traction. You should apply it early in the morning so it has time to work before the heavy lifting starts.
Should I keep my heat on during the move?
Yes, but you should keep it at a moderate level because the door will be open a lot. Using a space heater in a back room can provide a warm “thaw zone” for the family.