New Year, New Start: 6 Tips for Your January Move
Every new year brings resolutions for change. For some, this may mean joining the millions of people who will move to a new home.
For those that have closed the deal and are embarking on a new start, we share a few tips below to make your January move easier.
1. Clear Away Snow and Ice from Both Properties
Throughout the month, there will always be the possibly of ice, snow and the occasional wintry mix. Prior to moving anything out or in to either residence, remove potential hazards and obstructions from all outdoor walkways. This includes shoveling and de-icing pathways to prevent slipping.
2. Keep Winter Supplies on Hand
January in Northeast Ohio has a wide variety of temperatures. This year alone, we’ve seen everything from -13 to 44. Be prepared for anything. Keep winter supplies—such as those listed below—close by:
Hats
Gloves or Mittens
Shovels
Road Salt
Hot Beverages and Food (important moving fuel!)
3. Know Your Plan—And Have a Back-up
Moving at any time of the year requires thorough planning for the most efficient execution, but this is especially true during winter months.
If you’re courageous enough to brave the elements, or are forced to for a required move, make sure you not only have a plan, but a back-up one as well.
Should an unexpected blizzard, dangerous ice storm or sub-zero temperatures creep its way into the weather forecast, know your next step. Keep tabs on the weather the week of, note road conditions and formulate plans with the rest of your moving team.
Keep “in case of emergency” numbers for both locations handy, and allow extra time on the roadways if you expect ice or snow to appear.
4. Turn on the Heat and Electricity Before You Move In
As an additional comfort measure, have the heat and electricity turned on in your home prior to moving items in. This helps break up what could be a cold moving process with warm rooms. It also allows you to test pipes and internal electrical systems.
Should a pipe initially burst for any reason, or problems arise, you’ll then be able to handle the situation before your items arrive and prevent additional damages.
5. Give Attention to How Items Will Be Transported
Know the types of vehicles that will be used to transport items from one house to the other, and any special needs that your items may require as a result.
For example, if you plan to store items in the bed of a pick-up truck, invest in a cover, blankets, or tarps to protect your belongings from the elements.
6. Cover Floors and Pathways
Prior to loading or unloading furniture and boxes, use cardboard pieces to create walkways from each car to the rooms in your homes. You’ll thank yourself later when there’s less snow, salt and mud to clean off the floors.
What tips would you add to this list? Have you ever made a move during the winter months? Let us know in the comment section below.
