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Wilkinson's Removals and Storage of Bristol
Winter can be a challenging time to move house, with unpredictable weather, shorter daylight hours, and icy conditions potentially causing delays and extra stress. However, with the right preparation and expert advice, moving house during the colder months can be much smoother than you might think. As the top Bristol movers, Wilkinsons Removals has extensive experience in helping families move across the UK, even in winter. Here are our top tips for making your winter move as stress-free as possible. 

1. Plan Ahead for Weather Delays 

Winter weather is often unpredictable, so it’s important to plan for potential delays. Snow, ice, and heavy rain can all affect traffic and slow down your moving process, especially if you’re travelling longer distances. Keep an eye on weather forecasts in the days leading up to your move and build in some flexibility to account for any delays. 
 
If bad weather is forecast, consider booking your move for earlier in the day. Winter days are shorter, and the earlier you start, the more daylight you’ll have to complete the process. This is particularly important if you’re moving to or from rural areas around Bristol, where icy or ungritted roads can be more difficult to navigate. 
 
Wet weather can also cause additional cleaning on the properties you leave and enter, as muddy foot prints may occur, though reputable companies such as ourselves always supply floor coverings to avoid this issue as much as possible.  

2. Clear Pathways and Driveways 

On the day of your move, make sure any pathways, driveways, or access routes to your property are clear of snow, ice, or wet leaves. Slippery surfaces not only increase the risk of injury but also make it harder to load and unload your belongings safely. Have salt or sand ready to spread over icy areas and ensure your doorways are accessible for your movers. 
 
If you’re moving from or into a property with steps or sloped access, pay extra attention to clearing these areas, as they can become particularly hazardous in winter weather. 

3. Protect Your Belongings from the Cold and Damp 

Winter weather doesn’t just affect your journey—it can also damage your belongings if not properly protected. Damp, cold conditions can be harmful to furniture, electronics, and delicate items. To prevent damage: 
 
Use waterproof coverings on boxes and furniture to keep them dry. 
Wrap fragile items in blankets or bubble wrap to protect them from sudden temperature changes. 
Avoid packing electronics in the van overnight, as condensation from cold weather can cause internal damage. 
 
Wilkinsons Removals can provide high-quality packing materials to help ensure your items are protected from the elements throughout your move. 

4. Be Prepared for Shorter Days 

Winter days are shorter, with daylight often disappearing by late afternoon. This can make the process of loading and unloading more difficult, particularly if you’re moving a large house or travelling a long distance. To make the most of the daylight: 
 
Start your move early to take advantage of as much natural light as possible. 
Ensure outdoor lighting at both properties is working properly to help your movers see clearly when unloading. 
Consider hiring portable lighting if your new property is poorly lit or still under renovation. 
 
A well-lit environment can make a big difference when moving furniture and boxes, especially in tricky areas like driveways and staircases. 

5. Dress for the Weather 

It might seem obvious, but it’s easy to underestimate how cold and tiring moving house can be during winter. Dress in layers, so you can stay warm outside but easily remove layers when you’re indoors, moving boxes around. Make sure you have gloves that provide warmth but still allow you to grip securely, especially when handling boxes. 
 
If you're helping out on moving day, wear sturdy shoes with good grip to avoid slips on icy surfaces. Your safety and comfort are just as important as that of your belongings! 

6. Prepare Your Utilities in Advance 

During the winter, having access to heating, electricity, and hot water at your new home is essential for comfort and safety. Make sure to arrange for your utilities to be set up well in advance of your move. Contact your new providers to ensure the heating will be turned on before you arrive so that your new home is warm and ready for you. 
 
Similarly, check that all the lights are working properly. Winter moving days can feel long, especially with fewer daylight hours, so ensuring your home is well-lit will make unpacking easier and more efficient. 

7. Consider the Timing for International Moves 

While this article focuses on moving within the UK, it's worth noting that if you’re planning an international move during the winter months, you’ll need to factor in additional weather challenges. Cross-border travel during the winter can be affected by snowstorms, flight cancellations, or icy ferry crossings. Wilkinsons Removals offers reliable international moving services and can advise on the best time to schedule your move to Northern or Central Europe to minimise these risks. 

8. Hire Experienced Movers 

Winter moves require careful planning and expertise. Hiring a professional removals company like Wilkinsons Removals ensures that your house move is handled efficiently, no matter the weather. Our experienced team knows how to navigate the challenges of winter moves, from safely transporting your belongings to helping with any unexpected delays caused by bad weather. 
 
We can also provide a full range of services, including packing, dismantling furniture, and providing secure storage options if needed. Our high standards of customer care mean we’ll keep you informed throughout the process and work to make your winter move as smooth as possible. 

9. Stay Warm and Keep the Kettle Handy 

Moving in winter can be physically demanding, and it’s important to take care of yourself throughout the day. Make sure you have access to warm drinks and snacks to keep your energy up, and keep a kettle unpacked so you can make tea or coffee once you arrive at your new home. 
 
If you’re moving with children or pets, keep them warm and entertained, either by arranging for a family member or friend to look after them or by setting aside a heated room in the new house where they can stay out of the way. 

10. Be Flexible and Patient 

Finally, winter moves require flexibility and patience. Delays caused by bad weather, road closures, or icy conditions can happen, so try to stay calm and patient if things don’t go according to plan. Working with a professional removals company can help reduce the stress of last-minute changes, as they’ll have contingency plans in place to handle any disruptions. 
 
At Wilkinsons Removals, we pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to the unexpected and ensure our customers have a smooth, hassle-free move, even in the most challenging conditions. 

Conclusion 

Moving house during winter doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right preparation, professional help, and a flexible attitude, you can enjoy a smooth transition to your new home. As the top Bristol movers, Wilkinsons Removals is here to make your winter move as easy and stress-free as possible, whether you’re moving locally or internationally. Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help with your winter move! 
 
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