A College Muscle Movers trucked parked in front of houses in Minneapolis, MN

Expert Tips for Winter Moves in Minnesota

College Muscle Movers

Moving can be hard no matter the season, and when it comes to tackling the challenge in the frosty landscapes of Minnesota, it requires some extra planning and preparation. At College Muscle Movers, our 15 years of experience have taught us a lot about the unique challenges posed by Minnesota winters. We’ve compiled a list of our most helpful winter moving tips to ensure a smooth and stress-free transition during the colder months.

1. Hire Professionals

Maybe we’re a little biased, but investing in professional movers can be a game-changer during winter. Carrying furniture on slick walkways and driving a moving truck on snowy roads can be hard work and have a greater risk of injury. Experienced moving companies in Minnesota understand the challenges posed by snow and ice, and they come equipped with the right tools and expertise to navigate through them safely.

2. Plan Ahead

Planning is the biggest key to a successful move no matter the season. You can’t control everything on your moving day, but the more prepared you are, the better your moving experience will be. This is even more true for a winter move.

The weather is unpredictable, but we recommend keeping an eye on the local forecast beginning about 10 days before your move. Make sure to ask your moving company about their policies for moving on especially cold or snowy days. If a large storm is forecast, consider rescheduling your move. At College Muscle Movers, you can reschedule with no penalty until 3 days before your move, with a $50 rescheduling fee applied after that.

3. Protect Your Belongings

Cold temperatures can be harsh on your belongings, especially sensitive items like electronics, artwork, and fragile items. Use quality packing materials like furniture pads and shrink wrap to shield your possessions from the cold. Consider double-wrapping high-value or fragile items for an added layer of protection.

4. Clear Pathways

Snow and ice can create hazardous conditions, making it essential to keep pathways clear. Shovel and salt driveways, sidewalks, and entryways to both your current and new homes. This helps keep your moving team safe and able to carry items efficiently to and from the truck. If you aren’t able to clear the pathways yourself, ask if your movers keep shovels and salt stocked in their trucks.

5. Use Climate-Controlled Storage

If there’s a gap between moving out and moving in, consider using climate-controlled storage facilities to protect your belongings from extreme temperatures. This is particularly crucial for items sensitive to cold, like wooden furniture or electronics.

6. Dress for the Weather

Those of us who’ve lived in Minnesota for a long time know how cold winter can be. If you’re new to the region, remember to layer up, wear waterproof boots, and keep essentials like gloves and hats easily accessible. Minnesota winters are known for their biting cold, so dress appropriately on moving day. Fill a thermos with hot coffee or tea.

7. Keep Utilities Active

Ensure that utilities are active at both your old and new residences. This includes heating, electricity, and water. A warm environment is not only more comfortable for everyone involved but also prevents potential damage to your belongings caused by extreme cold.

8. Celebrate the Wins

Moving in the winter in Minnesota is undoubtedly challenging, so take a moment to celebrate the small victories along the way. Whether it’s successfully loading the truck or arriving at your new home without any mishaps, acknowledging these achievements can boost morale and make the experience more enjoyable.

Moving during a Minnesota winter can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and the right approach, it’s entirely manageable. Hopefully these expert tips will help you be well-equipped to face the challenges of a winter move. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy your new home!

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