Winter means freezing temps for more than 39 states across the United States, creating a challenging atmosphere for moving. Preparing for a winter move and following a few tips will help ease your stress and make the transition as simple as possible.

1. Stay Weather Vigilant

It’s always wise to keep up with the weather, but it’s even more important during a winter move. The weather can turn in an instant during the winter months so that some flexibility may be necessary.

Moving companies may reschedule due to weather, roads may close, and moving could become dangerous quickly. It’s better to stay safe than to be caught on the road with all your things in transit.

2. Protect the Floors

Buy some cheap plastic tarp pieces at the local hardware store and cover the floors in both locations. People will be coming in and out, dragging the weather mess across the floors.

Reduce your cleanup and protect your investment with some easy-to-remove, temporary covers.

3. Mind the Heat

Turn the heat off for both locations, as people will be opening doors constantly. The furnace will never shut off!

However, remember your own comfort – use a space heater in the bathroom and close the door. You’ll have a warm space to take care of your business while avoiding higher costs for electricity.

4. Clear the Walkways

Shovel and de-ice all walkways around the home. There’s no reason to carry a heavy piece of furniture across a patch of ice when a small bag of salt can solve the problem.

Clear all paths before the day the movers will arrive, then double check the paths the morning of the move.

5. Turn it On

Anyone who has lost power during the winter knows how terrible it is to live without heat. Avoid this problem by making sure the power is on at the new location.

Arrange to have the heat and lights turned on at least two days before the scheduled move to ensure seamless warm nights.

6. Keep Furniture Wraps on Hand

The unpredictable weather could pour snow, or even rain, on your moving day. If there are no blankets, towels, or other furniture covers on hand, the movers might drag your valuable big items through the weather.

Don’t take chances with precipitation; have something ready to cover furniture.

7. Stay Warm

Make sure you have winter essentials in the car with you, such as hats, coats, scarves, and gloves. You do not want these packed away in the truck in the cold!

Remember to keep your insides warm as well. Set up a crock pot of warm hot chocolate, coffee, or tea. Take breaks when the chill sets in, and remember to offer some to the moving guys, as well.

8. Fragile Items are Extra Fragile

The cold affects everything, including fragile items and electronics. Double pack fragile items, which might crack in the cold.

Pack electronics into a few boxes, and move them in the car, where they will stay warm.

9. Use Common Sense

Simply use common sense. If the weather gets dangerous, delay the move. Listen to the movers, who have extensive moving experience.

Keep everyone safe, and have a pleasant moving experience.