1. Plan for Delays

Travel delays are part and parcel of a house relocation during the winter months. Ice and snow may not be severe enough to cause insurmountable traffic problems, but these weather conditions will make your progress, and the progress of the removal van slower. Also, take into account that there are fewer hours of sunlight (especially around the festive season). It’ll make things easier if you plan ahead to get the bulk of the moving tasks completed in the middle of the day – you’ll avoid having to work in the dark. And if you need help with your relocation process, check out Four Labs.

2. Dress Appropriately

Just as you would for any special occasion make sure that your outfit is suitable. Clothes should be comfortable and allow you to move freely, you will be engaged in tasks that require physical exertion. Layers are always a good idea. They allow you to cope with temperature changes between the car, the home, and when outside. Being able to take off some external layers is also a good idea when you know that you are going to be extorting yourself. Your shoes are also important, make sure that they are comfortable – and (if possible) have anti-slip soles.

3. Pack an ‘Essentials’ Box

You’ll most likely be on the go for hours so having some snacks at hand will make the experience more bearable and keep up your energy levels. Remember to also keep hydrated and have the ‘essentials’ box at hand when you reach your new property. You may not have time to prepare a meal – so have it handy – and it also pays to have it with you in the car to stave off the hunger pangs while traveling (see below).

4. Long-distance relocation?

If you are going to be spending some time on the road while traveling to your new home then pack a picnic and make sure to keep warm. A long-distance trip will be a lot less stressful if you have some cold beverages, homemade snacks or sandwiches, or other treats, just in case you don’t have the time to stop on the way.

Wintertime calls for hot soup and perhaps a flask of piping hot coffee. Make sure to also pack a spare pair of shoes, extra warm clothing, and a blanket in case of emergencies or unforeseen breakdowns. These sorts of preparations may seem to be common sense, but they are especially important when you are relocating to a new home. Energy levels are important, being comfortable and having snacks will help you stay focused.

5. Check the Car before Setting Off.

Again, this may seem like the sort of thing that you would do anyway when setting off on an extended trip during the colder months of the year, but in the excitement that is part of moving homes, it’s easy to forget the basics. Ensure that your car has been checked for winter conditions by a qualified mechanic, that your tank is full, and that you have spray-on de-icer available and pack an ice-scraper. Also, ensure that your windscreen washing fluid has been topped up. A snow shovel is a good idea if snow is forecast.

6. Get the Heating Switched On.

Make sure that you have signed over the power and utility to yourself and if possible get hold of those who are vacating the home and ask them to leave the heating on a low setting. This can be especially important if they are leaving a few days before you are scheduled to arrive, or if that extended trip means that the house will be vacant for hours before you take up residence. Your vendors will need to take a meter reading before they leave – but that should be par for the course.

7. Keep your Furnishings and Belongings Safe

Wrapping furniture and other household and personal items before transport is always a good idea. For extra peace of mind use a reputable moving company like Ballards which will ensure that everything goes smoothly and that your possessions are in safe hands. Make sure to use proper removal boxes. Ballards will provide these when you opt for the full removal service – or you can purchase them from a retailer specialising in ‘do-it-yourself’ moves.

8. Underfoot Safety First

Make sure that you clear any snow or ice at the entrances of both your existing home and your new property. There will be less possibility of a ‘slip and fall’ accident.