The Windy City is one of the most beautiful metropolises in the world. If you’re relocating to Illinois’s biggest city from out of state, you’re in for world-class dining, internationally renowned museums, vibrant neighborhoods, and stunning beaches. Thanks to the Midwestern climate, moving to Chicago in the winter can pose a few challenges that you’ll want to be prepared for.
Chicago is no stranger to unpredictable weather in the colder months. Although warmer and sunny days are possible, it’s common for the temperatures to dip well below freezing, for snow to fall, and for ice to build up. So, how do you plan a safe and warm move? We’ve got the winter moving tips to set you up for a smooth relocation.
How to Find Winter-Proof Packing Supplies
Not all packing and moving supplies are created equal, and some of them aren’t suited for cold-weather elements. Thus, moving to Chicago in the winter involves getting a little creative with your packing supplies.
First and foremost, try to avoid cardboard as much as possible. Cardboard boxes aren’t well insulated and won’t keep the cold away from your prized possessions. Plus, when cardboard gets wet from the snow, ice, or sleet you might encounter during your winter move, the water will threaten the box’s structural integrity and could even let water inside, damaging the contents.
Instead, opt for packing materials that will resist subfreezing temperatures and moisture. Start off with items you have in your home that you’ll be moving anyway, like waterproof and insulated suitcases and duffle bags that are built for travel, and plastic storage bins that tightly snap shut. Once those are filled up, consider renting reusable moving crates that are made of heavy-duty plastic and can stand up to the elements.
You might also want to purchase a few moving bags, which are meant for multiple uses. These bags are usually padded and come with reinforced handles for easy carrying.
Your moving crew will bring some winter-proof supplies on your moving day, such as plastic coverings for your mattresses. And here’s a pro tip to keep in mind throughout your packing process: don’t use contractor or garbage bags. It might seem like a good idea for waterproofing your belongings, but since they’re easily confused for actual trash, some of your belongings might accidentally get thrown away.
Winter Moving Tips to Protect Your Belongings in Freezing Temperatures
Moving to Chicago in the winter months of December, January, and February involves more than finding the right supplies. It also requires knowing what to do with those supplies so you can keep your belongings safe from the elements—especially cold weather.
As your moving day approaches, keep a close eye on the Chicago weather forecast so you know what to expect. Windy City winter temperatures can drop below zero degrees, which can put some items at risk of damage if they’re not properly protected.
Here are a few winter moving tips to keep your stuff safe and warm:
- Insulate your totes and boxes as much as possible. Super cold temperatures can really impact electronics and items made of wood. Wrap these items first in sweatshirts or towels and then in plastic to keep them warm and dry.
- Bring some items in your personal vehicle. If you’re driving to Chicago for your interstate move, plan to bring items like laptops, computers, and tablets in your own car. Pack them in the cabin rather than the trunk so they get the benefit of the heat you’ll be cranking during the drive.
- Ask your moving company to bring winter-proof materials. The best movers in Chicago know what it takes to perform a safe winter move, so ask them for help, advice, and supplies that will protect your belongings.
If you’re not sure of the best way to protect your home’s inventory for your winter move—or, if you just want a hand preparing for your move—you can hire professional packers who will bring the right supplies and handle the tedious packing process for you.
Dealing with Ice and Snow on Moving Day
If you’re moving to Chicago during the winter from another Midwestern state, you probably know how much of a pain ice and snow can be. In addition to the uncomfortably cold temps, winter elements like ice and snow can pose a risk to you, your movers, your belongings, and your home if they’re not dealt with properly.
At your old home
One of the most important winter moving tips you can take advantage of is to dress in layers on your moving day. When your movers arrive at your home to load up their truck, they’ll likely need to prop open your outside door so they can efficiently carry your furniture and boxes outside. Having a few clothing layers handy will keep you comfortable (and help you avoid catching a chill) throughout the day.
If there’s any ice and snow on your stairs, walkway, or sidewalk, be sure to shovel and salt before the move crew gets to your dwelling. They’ll need a safe path between your door and the moving truck to protect your belongings and themselves.
Although movers aren’t allowed to remove their shoes or wear plastic booties while they’re inside your home, you can ask them to bring protective coverings for your carpet, hardwood, and tile floors to help prevent snow, ice, salt, and dirt from damaging the flooring. You might also want to place a doormat inside and outside the door so the movers can wipe off their shoes each time they come inside.
At your New Home in Chicago
There are also a few things you’ll need to do at your new home in Chicago in preparation for your winter move. Your to-dos will include:
- Get parking permits. Parking in Chicago is notoriously tough, and when you add in the winter “Dibs” system, it’s even harder to find a spot. Ask your moving company to get parking permits for your moving truck so there’s space reserved when the truck arrives.
- Clear the ice and snow. Just like moving out of your old place, moving into your Chicago home means giving the movers a safe and clear pathway. Try to arrive before your crew to shovel and salt—or, if possible, ask a friend or family member who already lives in Chicago to help out and do this for you.
- Be patient. There’s always a delivery window for long-distance moves, and inclement weather can delay your shipment. Stay in touch with your moving company about the truck’s status, but keep in mind that you might have to wait a little longer than anticipated.
The more you prepare for moving to Chicago in the winter, the smoother your interstate relocation will be. So dedicate some time to learn a few winter moving tips, ask your moving company for advice, and get ready for an easy (but chilly!) move!
Moving to Chicago in the Winter? Call in the Cold Weather Moving Pros!
Moving to a new home is always a big deal, especially when you’re relocating to a new city and state. Because of the tricky cold-weather elements, moving to Chicago in the winter can really skyrocket some people’s stress levels about their move…but we’re here to help.
We don’t just deal with moving in the winter—we love it. Our customer service team will help you coordinate your interstate relocation to Chicago, and our movers will arrive suited up and ready to take on whatever the weather can throw at them.
Contact us today for some winter moving tips and to start planning your move to Chicago!