Winter may not be the season most people choose for a move, but sometimes schedules, leases, or new opportunities don’t wait for warmer weather. The good news? A winter move can go just as smoothly as a summertime one—you just need the right plan, a local Northern Michigan moving company, (and maybe a warm pair of gloves).
Here are a few tried-and-true tips we’ve picked up over years of helping families and businesses move through snowflakes, cold mornings, and the occasional icy driveway in Northern Michigan!
1. Keep an Eye on the Forecast (But Don’t Panic Over It)
Weather apps will become your best friend during a winter move. Start checking the forecast a week ahead, and keep an eye on changing conditions. A light snowfall rarely causes delays, but ice storms and heavy snow might require adjusting the schedule slightly. Staying flexible and communicating with your movers goes a long way.
2. Clear a Path Before the Movers Arrive
This one’s simple but makes a big difference. Clear sidewalks, steps, and driveways of snow and ice before moving day gets underway. A little salt or sand helps create a safe walking path. Not only does this protect you and our moving crew, but it also prevents slips that can damage your belongings. If driveways are not plowed, it may also cause the rescheduling of your move until our movers and trucks can safely navigate your driveway!
3. Protect Your Floors Like a Pro
Winter moves bring in slush, salt, and plenty of footprints. Lay out old towels, blankets, or even rugs near the entryways so our movers have a place to clean their shoes off, to keep floors clean and avoid extra cleanup later. We also bring floor runners, but an extra layer never hurts—especially in high-traffic spots.
4. Keep Boxes Dry
Snow has a way of landing exactly where you don’t want it. Make sure your boxes are taped securely and avoid leaving them outside for long. If you have plastic bins, winter is a great time to use them. For boxes that must go outside briefly, keep a small staging area by the door so they move quickly from house to truck without soaking up moisture. The extra moisture can cause the boxes integrity to lower, causing a potential disaster by falling apart during your move!
5. Pack a “Warm Essentials” Bag
You probably won’t feel like digging through boxes to find your gloves, phone charger, or that pair of wool socks you suddenly need. Pack a separate bag with items you’ll want to keep close:
• Gloves and hats
• Extra socks
• Snacks and water
• Important documents
• Pet supplies
• A thermos of something warm (trust us on this one)
6. Protect Cold-Sensitive Items
Not everything likes freezing temperatures. Electronics, musical instruments, and even certain woods can be damaged by the extreme cold we get in Northern Michigan winters. Let your movers know which items should be kept indoors until the last minute and unloaded first on arrival.
7. Keep Utilities On Until Moving Day Is Over
Nobody wants to carry boxes into a house that’s colder inside than it is outdoors. Make sure heat and electricity stay on at both old and new homes until the move is complete. Warm houses aren’t just more comfortable—they help protect your belongings too.
8. Give Yourself (and Everyone Else) a Little Grace
Moving in winter takes a bit more patience. Roads may be slower, boots may track in some snow, and the whole day may run on “winter time.” But with a good plan and the right team, everything still gets done—usually without a hitch.
If you’re planning a winter move and want help navigating the cold, we’re always here to lend a hand—snowflakes and all. Let us know how we can make your move as warm and worry-free as possible. Your Northern Michigan moving team at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is used winter moving - the snow stays so long here! They know and understand how to navigate the winter roads, protect your belongings, and have fun doing it!
