Are you planning on moving house in winter?

While most people dream of moving on a warm summer day, sometimes life—or completion dates—doesn’t give you a choice.

However, relocating during the colder months isn’t all bad news.

Winter is often quieter for the property market, meaning removal companies have better availability and you are less likely to be caught in a chaotic chain.

That said, the British winter brings its own set of challenges.

From icy paths to early sunsets, the elements can turn a simple relocation into a logistical headache if you aren’t prepared. Being organised is the key to freezing out the stress.

At Curtiss Moving & Storage, we have been moving families in Portsmouth and across Hampshire since 1871. We have seen every type of weather imaginable.

Here are our top 10 tips to ensure your winter move goes smoothly.

1. Monitor the Weather Closely

In the UK, winter weather can turn on a dime. One minute it is crisp and sunny, the next you are dealing with torrential rain or a sudden freeze.

In the week leading up to your move, keep a close eye on the forecast.

If a severe storm or heavy snow is predicted, contact your removal company immediately to discuss contingency plans.

Websites like the Met Office provide the most reliable local updates to help you make informed decisions.

2. Hire Experienced Winter Movers

While a “man and van” might suffice in summer, winter moves require experience. Icy roads and wet conditions demand professional handling to ensure your belongings stay safe and dry.

Choosing a BAR-accredited company like Curtiss Moving & Storage ensures you have a team that knows how to handle adverse weather.

Professional crews use specialist protective covers for your furniture and floor runners to keep your carpets free of muddy boots. It is an investment in peace of mind.

3. Protect Electronics from Thermal Shock

Cold temperatures can be surprisingly damaging to modern technology.

Electronics, particularly televisions and computers, do not react well to sudden changes in temperature.

If an electronic device sits in a cold van for hours and is then brought immediately into a hot living room, condensation can form inside, potentially ruining the item.

Try to wrap electronics in blankets or bubble wrap to provide insulation. Once in your new home, leave them to acclimatise to room temperature for a few hours before turning them on.

4. Prepare the New Home for Arrival

There is nothing worse than arriving at your new property cold, tired, and in the dark.

If possible, get the keys early or contact the estate agent to ensure the heating is turned on before you arrive.

If you are moving into a property that has been empty for a while, ensure the utilities are transferred and active so you have hot water and lights the moment you step through the door.

5. Managing Wet and Muddy Conditions

Even if you avoid snow, the British winter is famous for rain.

Mud can be a significant issue when moving boxes in and out of properties.

Check for flood warnings along your route using the Government’s Flood Information Service.

On the ground, ensure you have old towels or cardboard laid down in the hallway of your new home.

Your removal crew will do their part with floor protectors, but having extra supplies to wipe down damp boxes is always a good idea.

6. Clear Your Pathways

Safety is paramount when moving in winter.

If there has been a frost or snow, slippery driveways and paths are a hazard for you and the removal crew carrying heavy furniture.

Before the van arrives, grit or salt your driveway and the path to your front door. It is also courteous (and safe) to do the same at your new property if you have access. A bag of rock salt is a cheap essential for any winter move.

7. Dress for the Job

Fashion takes a backseat on moving day.

You need to be warm, but you also need to be able to move freely.

Layers are your best friend.

You will likely get hot while lifting boxes, but cool down quickly when standing still or directing the movers.

Wear sturdy boots with good grip—trainers can be dangerous on wet loading ramps or icy steps.

8. Maximise the Daylight

One of the most significant constraints in winter is the lack of light. In December and January, it can get dark as early as 4:00 PM.

Start your day as early as possible.

The goal is to get the bulk of the loading done while the sun is up.

At your new property, ensure you have lightbulbs handy in your “essentials box” just in case the previous owners took theirs, or the existing ones have blown.

9. Pack a Winter Emergency Kit

If you are moving long-distance, for example, leaving Hampshire for the North, winter driving conditions can cause delays.

Pack a car emergency kit containing de-icer, a scraper, a torch, blankets, and plenty of snacks and water. It is also wise to have a thermos of hot coffee or tea ready. If the removal van gets stuck in traffic, you will be grateful for the warmth while you wait.

10. Be Flexible

Finally, keep an open mind. Winter moves often require a bit more patience than summer ones.

Traffic moves more slowly in the rain, and loading takes longer when crews are navigating slippery paths.

Build a buffer into your schedule.

Suppose you don’t have to unpack everything on day one.

Get the beds set up, turn on the heating, and worry about the rest tomorrow.

Ready for Your Winter Move?

Moving in winter doesn’t have to be a “frosty fiasco.” With the right preparation and the right team, it can be just as smooth as a summer relocation.

If you are planning a move in Portsmouth, Havant, or anywhere in Hampshire this winter, Curtiss Moving & Storage is here to help. We have been navigating winter roads since 1871.

Contact our friendly team today on 023 9298 5830 for a free, no-obligation quote, or use our online quote form to get started.