So, you’ve just found your dream home in Sydney and it looks like you’re going to be moving in winter? Well, good news - you’re probably going to save yourself a heap of money with reduced rates for rentals, property prices, removalists, and even storage. But we’re not going to sit here and say that moving in winter is a breeze because if that were the case, we’d all be doing it.
However, if you are set to be moving house this winter and are worried about how the weather might affect your move, then fear not, we are here to help. This guide will help you get through a house move in rain, hail, or shine, with as much ease as possible.
Preparing for Your Winter Move
Get Utilities Set Up in Advance
No one wants to walk into their new home, after a long day of moving, just to realise they have to take a freezing cold shower because there’s no hot water set up. Prepping the basic utilities like water, electricity, and the internet, before you move can help make your new place that bit cosier - especially when there’s a hot bath and Netflix at the ready.
Keep Track of the Weather
Winter in Sydney can be pretty unpredictable as we all know. One minute it can be blue skies and then the next minute torrential rain and wind can break out, leaving you stranded mid-move. Staying up-to-date on BOM weather will keep you ahead of the game when it comes to moving house in winter. If there’s a chance of rain, then you want to make sure that your belongings are not going to soak through and get damaged in the process. Also, a good-quality waterproof poncho and gumboots go a long way on the day to stop you from ending up soggy-footed and stressed.
Cover Your Floors
Nothing says winter like a big mud stain on your brand-new cream carpet, right? Well, not this time! Just because the weather has taken a turn for the worse, doesn't mean your floors have to suffer from it. Protecting your flooring with heavy-duty surface sheets will save you from the dreaded panic of watching moving guys and tradies come in and out of the house with muddy boots on your shiny new flooring. Plus, if you’ve got any renovation work planned, getting these protective sheets in before all your furniture saves you a whole heap of trouble when the time comes.
Make Sure Furniture is Protected
A bit of smart furniture protection during your winter move will pay off big time! Wrap your precious items in furniture blankets or plastic covers - it's a simple step that keeps your favourite couch and that vintage coffee table looking fantastic when they arrive at your new place. When winter showers pop up unexpectedly (as they love to do!), you'll be thanking yourself for taking those extra five minutes to cover everything properly.
Most quality removalists provide protective materials as part of their service, so don't hesitate to ask what they've got on hand.
Grab Heavy Duty Boxes
Have you ever tried carrying a paper shopping bag through the rain? It’s a disintegrated disaster 5 minutes in. Well, it's basically the same for cheap, thin, moving boxes. So, if you’re moving in winter, when there is always a slight chance of rain, you want to make sure you’re grabbing boxes that are durable and heavy-duty. Double up with tape as well and make sure not to overfill boxes with heavy items as this can increase the chances of breakage.
Set up a Refreshment Station
A day of moving in the cold and wet can be pretty taxing for everyone involved. On busy days such as these, it can be amazing how much hot tea and a couple of biscuits can do for morale (take it from us). If you are only moving locally, consider setting up a simple tea and coffee station to keep energies high and bodies warm throughout the move. It’s the little pick-me-up that everyone deserves on moving day.
Choose Movers with Experience
With slippery pathways and unpredictable weather conditions, winter moves take a little bit more finesse than moving in summer. So, picking movers who know what they’re doing is pretty important in times like this. Don’t be afraid to ask moving companies if they have the experience you’re looking for when you’re gathering quotes. Review platforms like Trustpilot and Google Reviews can also be helpful to see customer experiences and how they respond to any problems.
Final Thoughts
Moving in Sydney winter doesn't have to be a drizzly disaster. To make your winter relocation a success, all you need is a little help from the professionals, some simple weather precautions, and a good pack of Arnott's biscuits with a hot cup of tea by your side. With all these small touches, moving house in winter might just turn into an enjoyable experience for everyone involved!
