Moving in Less-Than-Ideal Weather | Journey Home Lending

Buying your first home is such an exciting time. You’ve spent weeks, months or maybe even years planning, searching and hoping to find the perfect place for your family—and now all of that work is done and you can start making a home.

While you can certainly plan and arrange the timing of your move, you can’t control the weather. Once everything is set in stone and your belongings are packed, the movers are coming…well, you may not be able to avoid moving in bad weather.

The good news is there are ways to prepare and get through your move without letting the weather get you down.

Moving in the Elements

The elements you might be facing will be dependent on the season. In the spring or summer, you could be facing rain, thunderstorms or even potentially flooded roadways. Even if none of that happens, there is a good chance you will have extreme heat to combat. Preparing for all the possibilities is the best way to make your move smoother.

Don’t pack your cooler in with the rest of your house, instead leave it out and plan to fill it with ice and water. Make sure it stays within arms’ reach so that everyone can stay hydrated during the loading and unloading. Even if you have hired movers, everyone will be in and out of the house a lot and hydration is important in order to avoid overheating.

No matter what season you are moving in, check your route and make sure you have alternate roads in case a storm leaves one inaccessible. If you are moving locally, plan around roads you know will flood easily if storms are forecast on your move day. If you are unfamiliar with the area, use social media to research a little information from locals on the best routes.

Moving in the Winter

For many of us, it’s hard to do anything in the winter, and considering moving when there is snow on the ground can feel less-than-ideal. It is completely possible, though, and it can even make your move smoother as you avoid the heavier traffic of summer travel.

Plan to be flexible with your schedule. Check with your movers on their weather contingency plan when you book them, and then confirm again with them two days before your scheduled moves. Be flexible with your other schedules as well, including when you have your power at your previous home shut off and when you empty the last of your groceries from the fridge. If a storm delays your move, you want to make sure you have a warm place to eat and sleep still.

Just as in the summer you need to keep everyone hydrated, if you are moving in the winter, plan to have hot drinks available the day your belongings will be loaded and unloaded. Keep your heat on so that everyone has a place to warm their hands and noses during the process, and make sure you keep winter hats and coats readily available for your family.

With any move, it is always a good idea to pack an overnight bag with changes of clothes, toiletries and snacks. Even if you are just moving down the road, having a bag full of things you need immediately at arms’ reach will be a big comfort. With a solid plan, you can get through your move no matter what the weather—or anything else—throws at you.

Ready to start your home-buying journey? Contact us to start planning your future.