Moving in the Winter: Special Tips for Toronto Residents
Winter moves are never fun. Okay, let’s face it—moving is no picnic at any time of the year, but a winter move in Toronto has its own place in infamy as something literally no one wants to do.
First of all, there’s the weather. Winters in Toronto are unpredictable, so no matter how well you plan, Mother Nature might throw you a curveball. A big dump of snow or an ice storm can not only wreak havoc on traffic, but parking might be even more of an issue, and keeping your boxes and valuables off the ground and safe from moisture will be even more challenging.
The best strategy is to plan for the worst possible scenario. Then, you’ll be prepared no matter what. Plus, if the pavement is dry and the going is good, your winter move will be practically balmy!
Pre-move Preparations for Winter Moves
It’s kind of hard to predict what the weather will be like three months in advance. Even a week out, you might get mixed signals. Do you know what happens to children that lie? They grow up to be meteorologists!
All kidding aside, with all the extreme weather we experience due to climate impact, the forecast can change significantly from day to day. Your best strategy is to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.
What you might do is check the Old Farmer’s Almanac. This historical publication is available online and has provided reasonably accurate prognostications since 1792. Planning your winter move around their predictions is probably an excellent place to start.
Weatherproofing
Ideally, your stuff isn’t going to sit out in the elements long enough for them to get damaged. However, some items, like furniture, artwork, and leather goods, should likely be protected with waterproof coverings.
Lay in a supply of plastic sheeting, available at your local hardware store, Canadian Tire, or Home Depot. More oversized items might be okay tied with a tarp. At any rate, articles like these should be moved last to reduce their time outdoors.
Think about the walkways between your home and the moving truck. If you expect conditions to be slippery, make sure you clear all ice and snow in advance and put down a good layer of salt the night before to keep ice from building up.
- Pack cold and moisture-sensitive items in sealable plastic tubs or containers.
- Wrap dishes with bubble wrap to give them extra cushioning and cold protection.
- Lay in a supply of sheets and blankets to protect fragile items and electronics.
Choosing the Right Moving Company
Choosing the right moving company is essential. You want one that’s trustworthy and experienced to ensure they get your move done quickly and efficiently. Don’t be afraid to shop around and ask lots of questions.
On the Moving Day
Moving day is always stressful, but things should go smoothly if you’re prepared and using good movers.
If you’re moving yourself, be sure to have a few friends on hand to help. For winter moves, we always think, “The more hands, the better,” as your stuff will get on and off the truck faster with less risk of breakage and injury.
Special considerations on the day of the move
- 1. De-ice all walkways.
- 2. Protect inside floors from tracking ice and melting snow. Putting down cardboard or drop cloths are both excellent strategies.
- 3. Ensure the moving truck is as close to the door as possible to shorten the transport distance.
- 4. Use an assembly-line approach where people hand off boxes to the next person and then onto the truck.
- 5. Wrap electronics, computers, and TVs with sheets and blankets. To minimize damage, consider moving these items in a regular car (not a moving van).
- 6. Organize your boxes with heavy and oversized stuff in the front of the truck. Your essential items, lighter items, and more fragile boxes should go on the vehicle last and be first off.
- 7. Once you arrive at your destination, unload as quickly as possible.
- 8. Protect floors and carpets with waterproof protectors, and be sure they don’t become slick with melted snow and ice. Salt can stain floors and carpets, so do your best to lay down tarps or other protection before movers start to move through the place.
Dealing with unexpected weather changes
Sudden changes in weather conditions are par for the course in Toronto. Be ready for anything with extra plastic sheeting, blankets, and moving blankets. Keep a supply of ice-melting salt and a good shovel and ice remover on hand to clear walkways and driveways.
Post-Move Considerations
Since it’s Toronto winter in all its glory, be prepared to spend a lot of time indoors once you’re moved in. You might experience service delays for things like cable and internet hookups or new furniture deliveries, so be prepared to roll with it if necessary.
The best advice we can provide is to arrange your service calls well in advance of your move and confirm all appointments ahead of time. Prepare well, but expect delays.
Don’t stress too much about getting all your things unpacked. Start with the essentials and work your way through everything bit by bit.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Toronto in the winter is not for the faint of heart! But there is plenty of joy in it—after all, you’re moving to the best city in Canada! If you plan well, you’ll minimize any issues and be warm and cozy in your new home before you know it.
Relevant for your move
An Ultimate Checklist for Change of Address in Ontario
Toronto Neighborhood Guide: Choosing the Right Area for Your Move
Pre-Move Decluttering: How to Lighten Your Load Before a Big Move