Moving in winter is very different than moving in the summer, spring or fall. There are considerations you need to make, including inclement weather. Use this list as a guide of what you'll need when moving in winter.

What You'll Need to Have on Hand for a Winter Move

If you live in a cold climate, you'll probably have the following items on hand; however, if you don't check through this list. You may find that you've packed these winter moving essentials and don't have access to them on moving day. So make sure you keep these items available, just in case.

Snow shovel: This may seem obvious, but if you don't scrape the walkways and driveways prior to the movers arriving, then we, the movers, will remove the snow. This is time that they could be spending on preparing your items for moving. Move It With M & S carries a snow shovel on our truck during the winter, as we may need to remove snow during the move. You will need your snow shovel at the new home also.

Salt or sand: We always bring Ice Melt or an extra bag of sand or salt on hand for moving in the winter. The weather can change quickly and sand or salt will ensure icy spots are safe to walk on. It's important that everyone who's helping with your move has a safe-footing. Again, once the move-out is complete, store the extra salt or sand in your car just in case you need it while traveling to or once you arrive at your new home.

Large pieces of cardboard: Cardboard is the perfect material to use for entrance-ways and carpeted areas that will see a lot of foot traffic on moving day. Place it on areas where people will be walking to save having to clean off boots when entering your home. Also make sure you have enough cardboard to use in your new home, too.

Extra gloves, sweaters and warm clothes: Keep extra clothing on hand, especially gloves, hats, socks and sweaters. The weather can change and it's important to ensure the people that are helping you move are kept warm and dry. Again, wet clothes can be packed at the last minute as can extra clothing that you didn't use. If you're moving long distance, keep some extra gloves, hats and socks in the car, just in case.

Hot chocolate, tea and coffee: Keep hot drinks on hand and a warm space in the house for people to retreat to for breaks and to keep warm. Usually when we move during the winter, our tea kettle is kept out (then loaded into the essentials box right before we lock the house door) and always plugged in. To save having to pack mugs and spoons, invest in some paper cups (recycled) and wooden spoons. You'll also want to provide hot drinks at your new home, too, so make sure you have enough supplies on hand for both the move out and the move in.

Rags, cleaner, mop: Before you lock the doors, you'll want to give your old home a once over once the movers leave. Keep rags, a mop and cleaner on hand to give the floors a quick wipe. Again, these items can be packed into your essentials box after you're finished moving out.

Extra plastic sheeting: The weather forecast will give you a good idea of whether you'll need some plastic sheeting for household items that need protection from wet snow. Items such as electronics (if not being packed in a box), fragile or unfinished wood furniture or plants may need extra protection from the elements. Clear garbage bags (leaf bags) work well for smaller items. Move It With M & S also uses shrink wrap liberally on all items we prepare and move.

If you have any questions - Let us know!!!