Moving in the Rain? Here are 5 Tips for Moving in Bad Weather

Canada’s weather can be unpredictable, especially during the rainy season. From unexpected spring showers to nearby flooding, it’s essential to be prepared if rain strikes on moving day. Early spring often brings mild temperatures and sunny days, but if you’re moving to one of Canada’s rainiest cities, like Terrace, BC (with 203.7 days of rain per year), now is the time to prepare.

Moving in the Rain: 5 Tips for a Smooth Move During Canada’s Rainy Season

1. Keep an Eye on the Weather

Even if you’re not moving to a particularly rain-prone area, keeping an eye on the weather forecast is crucial. Monitor the forecast leading up to your moving day. If a big storm is predicted, consider rescheduling. Being proactive about the weather can save you from a soggy, stressful moving day.

Staying informed about the weather allows you to plan accordingly, whether that means shifting your move to a sunnier day or just having a backup plan in case of rain. Weather apps and local news are your best friends during this time.

2. Prepare for Slick and Slippery Surfaces

Safety first! Moving heavy boxes and furniture is challenging enough without adding the risk of slipping. Prevent falls by adding salt or sand to your sidewalks and driveways. If mud creates a slick surface, rinse it away on moving day.

Ensuring that paths are safe for movers helps prevent injuries and keeps the moving process smooth. A little preparation can go a long way in avoiding accidents and delays.

3. Protect the Home’s Interior

Moving involves a lot of foot traffic, which means muddy, wet shoes coming in and out of your home. To minimize mess and hazards, clear all loading and unloading areas and try to centralize your items to one area of the house.

Lay down old rugs or plastic sheets to protect your floors from mud and water. This keeps your new home clean and prevents slippery surfaces that could lead to falls.

4. Get Your Moving Van Close, Really Close

Make the loading process easier by getting your moving van as close to the house as possible. If you have a garage, park the van close to it and move all boxes and furniture into the garage for easy loading.

This not only simplifies the loading process but also reduces the amount of mud and water tracked into your home. Centralizing your items in the garage means less cleanup and a more efficient move.

5. Have the Right Gear Prepared

While your moving company will bring essential items like tarps and protectants, having the right gear on hand can make a big difference. Show kindness to your movers with hot beverages to keep them warm and motivated.

Protect your furniture with plastic sheets to avoid water damage. Keep belongings away from areas prone to water intrusion. If your garage floods easily, keep items indoors until the movers arrive to prevent damage.

By following these tips, you can ensure your move goes smoothly, even if the weather doesn’t cooperate. Planning ahead and being prepared for rain will help you avoid common pitfalls and make your moving day as stress-free as possible.