# Winter Moving Tips: How to Pull Off a Stress-Free Move This Winter By Merav Bloch | 2023-12-14 There's something undeniably exciting about starting fresh in a new home during winter — unpacking boxes while snow falls outside, setting up the living room just in time for a cozy night in. But let's be honest: moving in cold weather comes with a unique set of challenges that a summer move simply doesn't. The good news? With the right winter moving tips, you can navigate icy sidewalks, shorter daylight hours, and holiday schedules without losing your sanity. Whether you're relocating across town or across the country, knowing how to move in cold weather — and how to plan around it — makes all the difference between a stress-free winter move and a chaotic one. In this guide, we'll walk you through why winter might actually work in your favor, the best timing strategies, a phase-by-phase action plan, cold-weather packing advice, moving day safety tips, and a complete checklist to keep everything on track. [Get your offer](#) ## Why Winter Might Actually Be the Best Time to Move Most people assume spring and summer are the only sensible times to relocate. That widespread belief is exactly why winter can work to your advantage. **Lower moving costs.** Because demand drops significantly between October and April, many moving companies reduce their rates during the off-season. According to the [American Moving & Storage Association](https://www.moving.org/newsroom/moving-statistics/), roughly 80% of residential moves happen between May and September, which means winter movers face far less competition for trucks, crews, and scheduling windows. **More flexibility with movers.** During peak season, you might book a moving company six to eight weeks in advance and still get limited time slots. In winter, you'll often have your pick of dates — and movers may be more willing to accommodate last-minute changes. **Less competition in the housing market.** Fewer buyers and renters are actively searching in winter, which can mean better deals on your new place. If you're also selling, understanding the [best time to sell a house](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/best-time-to-sell-a-house) can help you time both sides of the transaction. **Easier to take time off.** Many employers slow down around the holidays, making it simpler to use PTO without falling behind on major projects. **A simpler selling process.** If you're still figuring out the selling side, Opendoor can take that stress off your plate entirely. See [how selling to Opendoor compares to a traditional home sale](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-selling-to-opendoor-compares-to-a-traditional-home-sale) so you can focus on the move itself rather than juggling open houses in the snow. ## Best Time to Move in Winter Not all winter weeks are created equal. A little strategic timing can save you money, stress, and weather-related headaches. **Aim for mid-January through mid-February.** This window is typically the lowest-demand period for moving companies, which translates to the best rates and the most scheduling flexibility. Holiday chaos has subsided, and movers are eager to fill their calendars. **Avoid December 20 through January 2.** This stretch is the worst of both worlds: holiday surcharges from the few movers who are available, limited crew sizes, and the logistical nightmare of coordinating around everyone's holiday plans. If your [closing process](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/house-closing-process-for-seller) lands you with a move-in date during this window, see if you can negotiate your [possession date](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/buyer-possession-date) to push it a week or two later. **Choose a mid-week move.** Tuesday through Thursday moves are generally cheaper than weekend moves year-round, and this holds true in winter as well. **Monitor 10-day weather forecasts.** Once you have a tentative date, keep a close eye on the forecast. A flexible attitude here pays off — if a major storm is rolling in, it's far better to shift your move by a day or two than to battle dangerous road conditions. **Start early in the morning.** Winter daylight is limited. In many parts of the country, you'll lose sunlight by 4:30 or 5:00 p.m. in December and January. Beginning your move at first light gives you the maximum number of usable hours. ## Planning Your Winter Move (4–6 Weeks Out) A stress-free winter move starts well before moving day. Here's how to lay the groundwork. ### Book Movers Early — Even in the Off-Season Yes, winter is less competitive, but reputable moving companies still fill up — especially around the holidays. Get quotes from at least three companies four to six weeks before your move date. Ask specifically whether they have experience with cold-weather moves and whether their trucks are equipped for winter driving conditions. If you're coordinating a sale alongside your move, knowing [how long closing takes](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-long-does-closing-take) will help you set realistic timelines with your moving company. And if you need to [sell your house fast](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-to-sell-your-house-fast-complete-guide), locking in a guaranteed closing date (like you can with Opendoor) makes booking movers far more straightforward. ### Stock Up on Winter-Specific Packing Supplies Standard packing supplies aren't always enough when temperatures drop. Add these to your list: - **Plastic storage bins** — Cardboard softens and weakens when exposed to snow, sleet, or slush. Plastic bins keep moisture out and stack securely on slippery truck floors. - **Stretch wrap and moving blankets** — Extra layers protect wood furniture and electronics from temperature shock and condensation. - **Silica gel packets** — Toss a few into boxes with electronics, photos, or documents to absorb moisture. - **Rock salt or ice melt** — You'll need this at both your old and new home. Buy it now before stores sell out. - **Tarps or heavy-duty plastic sheeting** — For protecting floors and covering items during loading and unloading. ### Notify Utilities and Set Up Services at Your New Home This is critical in winter. Make sure heat, electricity, and water are active at your new home *before* you arrive. Walking into a house that's been sitting without heat in freezing temperatures can mean frozen pipes and a miserable first night. Schedule utility transfers at least two weeks ahead, and confirm the day before your move that everything is live. While you're handling logistics, it's also a smart time to wrap up any [costs associated with selling your current house](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-to-sell-a-house) so there are no surprises at the finish line. ## How to Move in Cold Weather: Protecting Your Belongings Freezing temperatures, moisture, and rapid temperature swings can damage your possessions in ways that a summer move never would. Here's how to protect what matters most. ### Fragile Items and Electronics Cold weather is especially hard on electronics. LCD screens can crack in extreme cold, and batteries drain faster in low temperatures. Follow these guidelines: - **Wrap electronics in moving blankets, then plastic wrap.** This creates an insulating barrier. - **Never leave electronics in an unheated truck overnight.** If your move spans two days, bring laptops, TVs, and gaming consoles inside with you. - **Let electronics acclimate before powering on.** When you bring cold devices into a warm home, condensation forms on internal components. Wait at least two to three hours before plugging anything in. ### Furniture and Large Appliances Wood furniture is particularly vulnerable to cold-induced cracking and warping. Solid wood expands and contracts with temperature changes, and a rapid shift — like going from a freezing truck to a heated living room — can cause splitting. - **Wrap wood pieces in moving blankets** for insulation. - **Avoid leaving furniture in the truck longer than necessary.** Load it last so it comes off first. - **Apply a thin layer of furniture wax or polish** before the move to add a protective moisture barrier. - **For appliances like washers and dryers,** make sure all water has been fully drained. Any residual water in hoses can freeze and crack connections. Plastic bins outperform cardboard here, too — they won't absorb moisture from snow tracked into the truck, and they're far sturdier on potentially icy truck ramps. ## Moving Day Tips for Snow and Ice When moving in snow, safety has to come first — for you, your movers, and your belongings. These tips will help you get through the day in one piece. ### Prepare Both Properties for Safe Access The morning of your move, clear and treat every surface that people will walk on: - **Shovel all walkways, driveways, porches, and steps** at both your old and new home. - **Apply rock salt or ice melt generously.** Reapply as needed throughout the day, especially if precipitation continues. - \**Keep a snow shovel and a bag of ice melt *out of the truck\*\*\* — set them aside where you can grab them at the new location before anything else gets unloaded. - **Lay down plastic sheeting, old towels, or flattened cardboard** on entryway floors at both homes. Movers tracking in snow, slush, and salt can damage hardwood and leave a mess on carpet. ### What to Wear on Winter Moving Day You'll be alternating between intense physical effort (carrying heavy boxes) and standing still (waiting for the truck, directing movers). That temperature swing means layering is essential: - **Base layer:** Moisture-wicking fabric to keep sweat from chilling you. - **Mid layer:** Fleece or a light down vest for insulation. - **Outer layer:** A waterproof, wind-resistant jacket you can easily remove. - **Footwear:** Waterproof boots with good traction. Avoid anything with a smooth sole. - **Gloves:** Wear them. Cold hands lose grip strength, and losing grip on a heavy box is how injuries happen. ### Keep a Winter Emergency Kit Accessible Don't pack your emergency supplies deep in the moving truck. Keep a small kit in your car: - Extra blankets - Flashlight and extra batteries - Bottled water and non-perishable snacks - Phone charger (battery or car charger) - First-aid kit - Ice scraper and a compact shovel - Jumper cables If you're driving a long distance to your new home, confirm that your vehicle (or the moving truck) has winter tires or tire chains, especially if you're passing through mountain regions or areas prone to heavy snowfall. ## Settling Into Your New Home After a Winter Move You made it. The truck is empty, and the hard part is behind you. Now it's about turning a cold house into a comfortable home as quickly as possible. ### Prioritize Heat and Hot Water Before you unpack a single box, confirm that the thermostat is working and set to a comfortable temperature (at least 68°F). Run the hot water to make sure the water heater is functioning. If you're moving into a home that's been sitting vacant in cold weather, let the heat run for a few hours before you start unpacking — this brings the interior temperature up evenly and reduces the risk of condensation forming on your belongings as they warm up. ### Unpack Essentials First — Winter Edition Your first-night box should be packed last and unloaded first. In winter, it needs a few extras beyond the usual toiletries and phone chargers: - **Warm bedding** — heavy blankets, flannel sheets, or sleeping bags in case the house hasn't fully warmed up - **Space heater** — a backup heat source if the furnace is slow to warm the whole house - **Warm clothing and slippers** — floors in a newly moved-in home are often freezing - **Hot beverage supplies** — a kettle, mugs, tea, coffee, and cocoa can do wonders for morale - **Flashlights** — if a winter storm knocks out power on your first night, you'll be grateful ### Inspect for Cold-Weather Issues Within your first few days, do a walkthrough with an eye toward winter-specific problems: - **Check for drafts** around windows and exterior doors. Use weatherstripping or draft stoppers as a quick fix. - **Inspect exposed pipes** in basements, crawl spaces, and garages. Insulate any that aren't already wrapped. - **Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.** Winter means more furnace use and a higher risk of CO buildup. - **Look at the roof from the ground.** Missing shingles or ice dams can lead to leaks as snow melts. If you want a more thorough assessment, consider hiring a home inspector. Here's a look at [what home inspectors typically look for](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/briefs/what-do-home-inspectors-look-for), so you know what to expect. ## Winter Moving Checklist Print this out, save it to your phone, or tape it to the fridge. Checking off each item as you go is the single easiest way to keep a winter move stress-free. ### 4 Weeks Before - \[ \] Get quotes from at least three moving companies; confirm winter driving experience - \[ \] Declutter and donate items you don't want to move (less to carry in the cold) - \[ \] Order plastic bins, moving blankets, and winter packing supplies - \[ \] Schedule utility transfers (heat, electric, water, internet) at both homes - \[ \] Start packing non-essential rooms ### 1 Week Before - \[ \] Confirm moving date and arrival time with your movers - \[ \] Check the 10-day weather forecast — have a backup date if severe weather is expected - \[ \] Pack a winter essentials first-night box (warm bedding, space heater, hot beverage supplies) - \[ \] Buy rock salt or ice melt for both properties - \[ \] Drain outdoor hoses and winterize your old home if it will sit vacant ### Day Before - \[ \] Charge all devices and portable batteries - \[ \] Set out plastic sheeting or old towels for floor protection - \[ \] Pre-salt walkways if freezing weather is expected overnight - \[ \] Confirm heat is on at the new home (set thermostat to at least 60°F) - \[ \] Load winter emergency kit in your car ### Moving Day - \[ \] Shovel and salt all walkways and driveways at both homes - \[ \] Lay floor protection at entryways - \[ \] Dress in layers; wear waterproof boots with traction - \[ \] Supervise loading — keep electronics and temperature-sensitive items off the truck floor - \[ \] Take breaks to warm up; have hot drinks available ### First Week in Your New Home - \[ \] Test thermostat, water heater, smoke detectors, and CO detectors - \[ \] Inspect windows for drafts and pipes for insulation - \[ \] Let electronics acclimate to room temperature before plugging in - \[ \] Unpack kitchen and bedrooms first for maximum comfort - \[ \] Update your address with USPS, banks, subscriptions, and insurance ## Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Winter ### Is it cheaper to move in winter? Generally, yes. Because the vast majority of moves happen between May and September, moving companies often lower their rates during the winter off-season to keep crews busy. You may save anywhere from 20% to 30% compared to a peak-summer move, depending on your location and the company you hire. You'll also find that rental trucks are more available and sometimes discounted. If you're buying a new home as part of your move, lower housing competition can mean better deals — learn more about [how much it costs to buy a house](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-to-buy-a-house) to budget accurately. ### What temperature is too cold to move? There's no hard cutoff, but most moving professionals advise extra caution below 20°F (–7°C). At that temperature, exposed skin is at risk for frostbite within 30 minutes, batteries in trucks and electronics drain faster, and hydraulic lifts on moving trucks can malfunction. If temperatures drop into the single digits or below zero, consider postponing if your schedule allows. At a minimum, take frequent warming breaks and keep the truck running so the engine and any hydraulic systems don't freeze. ### How do you move plants in winter? Houseplants are extremely sensitive to cold. Even a few minutes of exposure to freezing air can kill tropical varieties. Water your plants a day or two before the move (not the day of — wet soil is heavier and messier). Wrap each plant in newspaper or a plastic bag, leaving the top open for air circulation. Transport them in your heated car rather than the moving truck, and never leave them in a cold vehicle overnight. Once in your new home, keep them away from drafty windows for the first week. ### Should you move during a snowstorm? If you can safely postpone, you should. Heavy snowfall creates dangerous driving conditions for large moving trucks, increases the risk of slips and falls while carrying heavy items, and can double or triple the time it takes to complete a move. If a storm is in the forecast, talk to your moving company about rescheduling — most are understanding about weather-related changes during winter. If a light dusting is all that's expected, proceed with extra caution: salt everything, drive slowly, and add buffer time to your schedule. ### How do you protect electronics when moving in cold weather? Wrap electronics in thick moving blankets for insulation, then cover them with stretch wrap or place them inside insulated bags. Avoid packing them against the outer walls of the truck, where temperature exposure is greatest. The most important step happens *after* the move: let electronics sit at room temperature for two to three hours before turning them on. Powering on a cold device in a warm room causes internal condensation, which can short-circuit components. ### Do I need to winterize my old home if it's going to be vacant? Yes — even for a short period. Set the thermostat no lower than 55°F to prevent pipes from freezing. Shut off the water supply and drain faucets if the home will sit empty for more than a week. Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air reach the pipes. If you're selling the property, keeping it in good condition matters for your listing. Here's how to [prepare your house for sale](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-to-prepare-your-house-for-sale) so your home shows well even in the off-season. ### How far in advance should I book movers for a winter move? Four to six weeks is the sweet spot. While winter is the off-season, the best-rated companies still fill their schedules — especially around the holidays. Booking early also gives you leverage to negotiate rates since movers want to lock in business during their slow period. If your timeline is tight because you need to [sell your house fast for cash](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/sell-your-house-for-fast-cash-with-Opendoor), having movers already booked means one less thing to scramble for at the last minute. ### What if my closing date falls during a holiday week? Holiday-week closings are tricky because banks, title companies, and county offices may have reduced hours. Ask your agent or title company early about potential delays. If you have some flexibility, pushing your closing to the first full business week of January can make the process smoother. For a detailed look at the timeline, read about [how long the closing process takes](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-long-does-closing-take) so you can plan your move accordingly. [Get your offer](#) ## Make Your Winter Move Easier with Opendoor Moving in winter doesn't have to mean doubling your stress. The cold weather, shorter days, and holiday logistics are manageable — especially when you have a plan. What's harder to manage? Trying to sell your current home and coordinate a move at the same time. That's where Opendoor comes in. Instead of listing your home, staging it for showings in the dead of winter, and waiting for the right buyer, you can [sell directly to Opendoor](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/sell-your-house-for-fast-cash-with-Opendoor) and choose a closing date that fits your moving timeline. No open houses in a snowstorm. No wondering if buyers will brave the cold to tour your home. Just a straightforward offer and a schedule you control. Ready to simplify the selling side of your winter move? Learn [how to sell your house](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-to-sell-your-house) on your terms, or see [how Opendoor compares to a traditional sale](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-selling-to-opendoor-compares-to-a-traditional-home-sale) to decide what's right for you. --- *Originally published at [https://www.opendoor.com/articles/tips-to-move-this-winter](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/tips-to-move-this-winter)*