Moving home in the winter

Okay, so summer is over and rain is forecast for the next 10 days. Not to put a downer on things guys, but that's just the way it is. It's time to think about hunkering down as we start the countdown to another winter in the UK. Nice.

Around the start of September you get that feeling something is coming. The schools are back, the nights are getting chillier, there's a change in the air and a sense that everyone is thinking here we go again...

Another 6 to 8 months of limited light and cold and whatever else the weather decides to throw at us, yippee! (personally I like winter but by the end I've usually had enough too).

So what do we need to consider if we're moving home in London during the cold dark days? 

Let's take a quick checklist:

Dress appropriately for your move

Obviously when the temperature drops most people are going to be wearing thicker and heavier clothes, but on your moving day that's probably not a good idea. You're going to warm up fast anyway, especially if you've only booked the one driver/helper and are assisting with the move (you can always request extra helpers if you prefer for them to do everything). 

You need to be able to move around easily without feeling restricted, so a couple of layers and a fleece is ideal. Think of it as a gym workout but in the cold.

Defrosting paths

This one depends on the situation on the ground where you live, and obviously the weather. The main thing to keep in mind is ideally you want as clear a route as possible between where your belongings are located (the boxes and bags etc), and the back of the vehicle they're going into. 

That means propping doors open and removing any potential hazards such as ice on a pathway. It's not something that is normally an issue, as any early morning ice has usually gone by the time most moves start, but worth bearing in mind if we get some unexpected freezing conditions. 

Which leads us to the next tip.

Check the weather conditions

I remember when winters were mostly dry and cold, which is my favourite kind of weather, and probably why I still have a soft spot for the season. The sound of crunching dry leaves on a crisp and sunny morning on the way to school, and maybe a game of conkers later, ahh the memories come flooding back. 

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, it's fair to say winters are a lot wetter these days, so check the rain app and keep a light waterproof to hand. You don't want to arrive at your new place completely drenched.

Protect your floors

Everything gets wetter and dirtier in winter, and carpets can get messed up quickly if you're not careful, and that's the last thing you want if you're hoping for a full refund on your deposit.

So always try and stack up all of your boxes and bags as close to the exit as possible, or if possible in the hallway outside your door if you're in a flat. 

If there are items of furniture to be moved that are still inside the property, think proactive.. maybe put some old sheeting down or have some of those plastic shoe covers to hand, like the ones they use at swimming pools (don't rely on your average grunt Mover to definitely have some).

Don't over-pack your boxes

This one applies to all seasons, but particularly in the winter. No one wants to be giving themselves an injury while trying to carry a huge cardboard box full of books on a cold and frosty morning. They can weigh a ton! So get some proper removal boxes and spread the load evenly, your back will thank you for it later. 

Long distance moves

If you're heading out of London and the journey is going to take a while, think about what you might need during the trip, including any scenario where you might have to vacate the vehicle (rare but just in case). 

Keep a small backpack with you for essentials so you won't have to go digging for something in the back of the van en route. Maybe even a flask and some sandwiches would be nice. 

And that's about it. Most of it is common sense, but easy to forget in all the drama of moving home.

Happy winter moving!