{"id":1534,"date":"2025-12-05T11:29:16","date_gmt":"2025-12-05T16:29:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/?p=1534"},"modified":"2026-04-28T15:32:32","modified_gmt":"2026-04-28T20:32:32","slug":"tips-for-moving-to-chicago-in-the-winter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.move-tastic.com\/blog\/tips-for-moving-to-chicago-in-the-winter\/","title":{"rendered":"Moving to Chicago in the Winter: How to Prepare for a Safe (and Warm!) Long-Distance Move"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The Windy City is one of the most beautiful metropolises in the world. If you\u2019re relocating to Illinois\u2019s biggest city from out of state<\/a>, you\u2019re 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\u2019ll want to be prepared for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chicago is no stranger to unpredictable weather in the colder months. Although warmer and sunny days are possible, it\u2019s 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\u2019ve got the winter moving tips to set you up for a smooth relocation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Find Winter-Proof Packing Supplies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Not all packing and moving supplies are created equal, and some of them aren\u2019t suited for cold-weather elements. Thus, moving to Chicago in the winter involves getting a little creative with your packing supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

First and foremost, try to avoid cardboard as much as possible. Cardboard boxes aren\u2019t well insulated and won\u2019t 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\u2019s structural integrity and could even let water inside, damaging the contents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Instead, opt for packing materials that will resist subfreezing temperatures and moisture. Start off with items you have in your home that you\u2019ll 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<\/a> that are made of heavy-duty plastic and can stand up to the elements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your moving crew will bring some winter-proof supplies on your moving day, such as plastic coverings for your mattresses. And here\u2019s a pro tip to keep in mind throughout your packing process: don\u2019t use contractor or garbage bags. It might seem like a good idea for waterproofing your belongings, but since they\u2019re easily confused for actual trash, some of your belongings might accidentally get thrown away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Winter Moving Tips to Protect Your Belongings in Freezing Temperatures<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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\u2014especially cold weather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As your moving day approaches, keep a close eye on the Chicago weather forecast<\/a> 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\u2019re not properly protected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are a few winter moving tips to keep your stuff safe and warm:<\/p>\n\n\n\n