Moving is a big task no matter the season, but moving in the winter can add extra stress. If you’re planning a move to or from Murfreesboro during the colder months, there are a few key strategies that can help you navigate the process more smoothly. From preparing your home to managing the unpredictable winter weather, this guide offers practical tips to make your winter move easier and less stressful.
How do you make moving in the winter a success? Let’s dive in.
1. Start with Early Planning and Flexibility
Moving in winter requires a bit more flexibility than moving in other seasons. Cold temperatures, the potential for icy conditions, and shorter daylight hours can all impact your schedule, so it’s important to plan ahead.
The first step is to lock in your moving date as early as possible but make sure to stay open to the possibility of delays. If you can, choose a backup day in case winter weather makes your first choice impossible. While snow isn’t as common in Murfreesboro as in northern states, the area can still experience occasional ice or sleet storms that could affect your moving plans.
But here’s the kicker: choosing the right day can also save you money. Since winter is generally a slower season for moving companies, rates are often lower. If your schedule is flexible, consider moving on a weekday to take advantage of these off-peak times.
The first step is to lock in your moving date as early as possible but make sure to stay open to the possibility of delays. If you can, choose a backup day in case winter weather makes your first choice impossible. While snow isn’t as common in Murfreesboro as in northern states, the area can still experience occasional ice or sleet storms that could affect your moving plans.
But here’s the kicker: choosing the right day can also save you money. Since winter is generally a slower season for moving companies, rates are often lower. If your schedule is flexible, consider moving on a weekday to take advantage of these off-peak times.
2. Prepare Your Home for Cold Weather
Moving during winter means taking extra steps to protect both your old and new homes from the elements. Cold air can lead to icy surfaces, which can be dangerous for movers and family members alike.
Start by salting or shoveling any walkways, driveways, or sidewalks at both locations before your moving day arrives. Even a thin layer of ice can create a slipping hazard, so make sure to stay on top of clearing the paths throughout the day. You should also keep a supply of salt or sand on hand in case conditions worsen while you’re in the middle of the move.
It’s not just outside areas that need attention. Inside your home, you’ll want to protect the floors from mud and water tracked in by movers. Use heavy-duty mats, towels, or cardboard to cover high-traffic areas, especially at entry points. This extra step can save your floors from scratches or stains as boxes and furniture are carried in and out.
Start by salting or shoveling any walkways, driveways, or sidewalks at both locations before your moving day arrives. Even a thin layer of ice can create a slipping hazard, so make sure to stay on top of clearing the paths throughout the day. You should also keep a supply of salt or sand on hand in case conditions worsen while you’re in the middle of the move.
It’s not just outside areas that need attention. Inside your home, you’ll want to protect the floors from mud and water tracked in by movers. Use heavy-duty mats, towels, or cardboard to cover high-traffic areas, especially at entry points. This extra step can save your floors from scratches or stains as boxes and furniture are carried in and out.
3. Keep an Eye on the Weather Forecast
One of the trickiest parts of moving in the winter is the unpredictability of the weather. In Murfreesboro, the weather can fluctuate significantly from day to day, making it essential to monitor the forecast closely as your moving day approaches.
Don’t just check the weather once or twice. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on the forecast, starting a week before the move. This gives you enough time to prepare or reschedule if necessary. Have a backup plan for any sudden changes, like storing items in a temporary location or delaying the move until roads are safe.
Also, consider how the temperature will affect the items you’re moving. Electronics, artwork, and delicate items can be damaged by freezing temperatures, so you’ll want to transport them in a climate-controlled vehicle if possible. If that’s not an option, try packing these items in well-insulated boxes to minimize the risk of exposure.
Don’t just check the weather once or twice. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on the forecast, starting a week before the move. This gives you enough time to prepare or reschedule if necessary. Have a backup plan for any sudden changes, like storing items in a temporary location or delaying the move until roads are safe.
Also, consider how the temperature will affect the items you’re moving. Electronics, artwork, and delicate items can be damaged by freezing temperatures, so you’ll want to transport them in a climate-controlled vehicle if possible. If that’s not an option, try packing these items in well-insulated boxes to minimize the risk of exposure.
4. Pack Smartly for Cold Conditions
Packing during the winter requires a bit of extra planning. Since you might encounter cold, wet, or slippery conditions, you need to make sure your belongings are well-protected.
Start by packing in waterproof or sturdy plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes. If it rains or snows on your moving day, cardboard can become soggy and fragile, increasing the chances of damage to your items. Using plastic containers will help keep your belongings dry and safe.
Also, be mindful of the weight of each box. Icy or slick conditions can make it more challenging to carry heavy items, so it’s a good idea to distribute weight evenly across your boxes.
But here’s the best part: Packing strategically can also help you unpack faster. Keep winter essentials—like coats, gloves, hats, and boots—in easily accessible boxes so you can grab them right away if you need them during the move.
Start by packing in waterproof or sturdy plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes. If it rains or snows on your moving day, cardboard can become soggy and fragile, increasing the chances of damage to your items. Using plastic containers will help keep your belongings dry and safe.
Also, be mindful of the weight of each box. Icy or slick conditions can make it more challenging to carry heavy items, so it’s a good idea to distribute weight evenly across your boxes.
But here’s the best part: Packing strategically can also help you unpack faster. Keep winter essentials—like coats, gloves, hats, and boots—in easily accessible boxes so you can grab them right away if you need them during the move.
5. Take Care of Your Movers
Professional movers are experts, but it’s still a good idea to make their job as safe and comfortable as possible. In colder months, offering hot beverages like coffee or tea can go a long way in showing appreciation for their hard work. Also, providing a warm place for breaks can help them stay focused and energized throughout the day.
Make sure to communicate clearly with your moving team about any potential hazards, like icy spots or uneven walkways. The more they know, the safer and faster the process will be.
One last tip: If you’re hiring movers, ask about their experience with winter moves. A team that knows how to handle winter conditions will be better prepared to navigate the unique challenges of the season.
Make sure to communicate clearly with your moving team about any potential hazards, like icy spots or uneven walkways. The more they know, the safer and faster the process will be.
One last tip: If you’re hiring movers, ask about their experience with winter moves. A team that knows how to handle winter conditions will be better prepared to navigate the unique challenges of the season.
Partner with Premier Realty TN
If you're considering a winter move or looking to buy or sell a home in Murfreesboro, Premier Realty TN is here to guide you every step of the way. From finding the perfect property to negotiating the best deal, Premier Realty TN is committed to helping you achieve your real estate goals. Reach out to Premier Realty TN today to start your next chapter!
