Useful Tips for Safe Winter Moving in Toronto
As we are now in the middle of winter in Toronto, Ontario and across Canada, and while some areas are feeling the winter more than others, cold weather and chilly conditions definitely have an impact everywhere in Canada.
Viktoria Van Lines Toronto provides residential moving services in Toronto and GTA year-round to move people in and out of their homes and with approximately 14% of Canadians moving each year, it means that our Toronto local and long distance movers need to be prepared for all types of weather.
Here are some tips on moving safely in winter in Toronto:
Roll out the carpet
Prepare for your moving day by clearing a walkway from your home to the moving truck.
Rake up leaves, salt all the concrete surface around to help reduce ice and sludge, or shovel a path through the snow. This will help keep your Toronto movers safe while carrying items from the house to the truck. At Viktoria Van Lines Toronto, we usually roll out old carpets outside of the houses and on truck ramps to create slip-free pathways.
Protect your floors
With Toronto movers traveling in and out of your house on your moving day, the outside elements could easily be brought inside. Secure non-slip covers on your floors to help protect them, cardboard or plastic with grip would work as well.
Pack securely
When packing your items, make sure they are well secured and placed into moving boxes that will be able to hold their weight. Don’t overpack moving boxes.
If some items are fragile, wrap them in bubble wrap, newspaper, butcher’s paper or moving blankets. Insulate your items so the elements don’t ruin pricey or priceless items, including electronics, which are susceptible to frost and moisture.
Glass and plastic items can become weakened and more breakable when they are exposed to cold elements and condensation can impact sensitive wood finishes, electronics, and antiques.
Watch the clock
You should never rush a move, especially in cold, wet, and icy conditions, but do remember that winter months give less daylight, which impact visibility and the quality of lighting. Do your best to plan ahead so that you are using the daylight hours wisely.
Have the clothes fit the part
Wear close-toed shoes with a good grip on your moving day. Choose clothes that can be layered – it will be a cold day, but the activity of moving will quickly warm you up. Layers allow you to easily add or take off clothing items. Hand warmers/pocket warmers are helpful too.
Fuel your body
Start the day well fed and fueled – a hearty breakfast will give you the energy to keep going with the heavy lifting. You might be tempted to drink lots of coffee to stay warm, but make sure you also drink plenty of water to keep hydrated, or substitute coffee for hot water with lemon, ginger and honey.
No rush
Slow down when moving in wet, icy and snowy conditions. Rushing can lead to slips and spills and can result in injury or damaged belongings. Plan for the move to take longer than usual, as you navigate winter conditions. It may add some costs or delays to your day, but it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Be aware of the warning signs
Though you may not be outdoors for extended periods when moving, it’s always best to be safe and know what the symptoms are for exposure to cold temperatures. First aid training is always beneficial, but if you don’t have any training you can educate yourself and anyone helping with the move in regards to the warning signs for issues such as hypothermia.
About Viktoria Van Lines Toronto
Viktoria Van Lines Toronto is a professional Toronto moving and storage company, providing high quality local and long distance moving services throughout the GTA, Southern Ontario and across Canada. Thanks to our country-wide network we are also able to service our clients’ long distance moving needs throughout Canada.
Call Viktoria Van Lines Toronto (647) 344-1554 or Toll Free: 1 ( 877) 399-1315 for a FREE Consultation in regards to your residential or commercial / office moving needs to and from Toronto, the GTA and across Canada.