Moving in Winter: Complete Guide to Cold-Weather Relocations

I moved in February once. Everyone thought I was crazy. "Why not wait until spring?" they asked. Because I saved $1,400 on movers, got my first choice of moving dates, and the movers were done in half the time because they weren't melting in 95-degree heat.

Winter moving isn't for everyone. But if you can handle the cold and plan properly, it's one of the smartest moves you can make (pun intended).

Why Move in Winter? The Advantages

Huge Cost Savings (20-40% Off)

This is the big one. Moving companies are desperate for business in winter. Prices drop dramatically:

• Professional movers: 25-40% cheaper than summer
• Truck rentals: 20-30% cheaper
• Storage units: Often have winter promotions
• Apartments: More willing to negotiate rent/fees

A move that costs $4,000 in July might cost $2,400 in January. Same service, way less money.

Better Availability

• Get your first choice of moving date
• Movers aren't booked solid weeks in advance
• More rental truck options available
• Elevator reservations easier to secure
• Less competition for apartments

Faster Service

Movers aren't exhausted from working 12 moves a day in the heat. They're fresh, motivated, and work efficiently. My winter move took 3.5 hours. The same amount of stuff in summer took 6 hours.

No Heat Exhaustion

Moving in 100-degree heat is brutal. You're drenched in sweat, dehydrated, exhausted. Winter? Bundle up, stay warm with the physical activity, take breaks inside. Much more pleasant.

The Challenges of Winter Moving

Let's be real—winter moving has downsides:

Weather Unpredictability

• Snowstorms can delay moves
• Ice makes carrying heavy items dangerous
• Short daylight hours (dark by 5 PM)
• Extreme cold makes work slower

Safety Risks

• Slipping on ice/snow with heavy boxes
• Frozen walkways and driveways
• Poor visibility in snowstorms
• Dangerous driving conditions

Damage to Belongings

• Electronics sensitive to extreme cold
• Wood furniture can warp in temperature changes
• Plants will freeze
• Liquids can freeze and burst containers

But with proper preparation, you can minimize all of these risks.

Essential Winter Moving Supplies

Ice Melt / Rock Salt

Start applying this 24 hours before moving day. Keep walkways and driveways clear and safe.

Snow Shovel

Even if you're moving to/from apartments, you may need to clear paths for the movers.

Heavy-Duty Work Gloves (Insulated)

Regular gloves won't cut it. You need insulated work gloves that still allow you to grip boxes.

Traction Cleats for Boots

Slip-on ice cleats that attach to your boots. Game-changer for walking on ice with heavy boxes.

Floor Protection / Runners

Snow and slush tracked inside can damage floors. Lay down protective runners or cardboard.

Plastic Sheeting / Tarps

Protect furniture from snow and moisture during loading/unloading.

Hand Warmers

Toss these in your gloves or pockets. Your hands will thank you after hours in the cold.

Insulated Thermos

Hot coffee or tea during breaks keeps everyone warm and motivated.

Protecting Your Belongings from Cold

Electronics

Most vulnerable: TVs, computers, tablets, gaming consoles

Protection strategy:

• Pack in insulated boxes with bubble wrap
• Keep in heated car if possible (not the truck)
• Let warm up to room temperature BEFORE plugging in (condensation risk)
• Wait 2-4 hours after bringing inside before using

Plants

Most houseplants will die in freezing temperatures. Options:

• Give them away: Easiest option for long-distance winter moves
• Transport in heated car: Only works for short distances
• Professional plant movers: Expensive but they know how to protect them
• DIY protection: Wrap in blankets, keep in insulated boxes, move last

Realistically, for cross-country winter moves, rehoming plants is smartest.

Staying Safe on Winter Moving Day

Prevent Slips and Falls

• Clear paths frequently: Snow/ice reforms quickly
• Use ice melt liberally: Reapply every 2-3 hours
• Wear proper boots: Good tread, waterproof, insulated
• Use traction cleats: Slip-on spikes for boots
• Take smaller loads: Better balance = less falling risk
• Go slow: Rushing on ice = injuries

Dress Appropriately

Layering system:

1. Base layer: Moisture-wicking thermal underwear
2. Mid layer: Fleece or wool for insulation
3. Outer layer: Waterproof, windproof jacket
4. Accessories: Hat, gloves, warm socks

Pro tip: Start with fewer layers than you think. You'll warm up quickly from the physical work. You can always add layers, but being sweaty and overheated in winter is miserable.

Take Warm-Up Breaks

• Every hour, take 10-15 minutes inside
• Drink hot beverages
• Warm hands/feet by heaters
• Watch for signs of frostbite (numbness, white/gray skin)

Winter Moving Cost Savings

Here's what you can realistically expect to save by moving in winter:

• Professional movers: $500-$1,500 savings on average move
• Truck rental: $100-$400 savings
• Storage: First month free or 20-30% off promotions
• Apartment concessions: Waived fees, reduced deposits, rent discounts
• Flexibility premium: Better negotiating position

Total potential savings: $800-$2,500+ depending on move size

The Bottom Line

Moving in winter isn't for everyone. If you:

• Can't handle physical work in cold weather
• Have no flexibility on dates
• Live in extreme climate (mountain passes, etc.)
• Have lots of cold-sensitive belongings

...then maybe wait for spring.

But if you:

• Want to save serious money (20-40% off)
• Can be flexible with dates
• Don't mind the cold
• Can properly prepare

...winter moving is actually fantastic.

I've moved in both summer and winter. I'll take winter every time. The savings alone make it worth bundling up. And honestly? I'd rather be cold and moving than sweating and miserable in July heat.

Just clear those walkways, dress in layers, take warm-up breaks, and you'll be fine. Your wallet will definitely thank you.