Even though we have the best intentions for planning a move, sometimes obstacles get in the way. Or perhaps an opportunity comes up that you can’t refuse, and you need to pack during the coldest of the winter months.

Cold weather, ice, and snow make moving more of a pain than it should be, but it can be done. The trick with moving during the winter is that timelines can shift based on many factors, including the weather. But for those who are flexible, patient, and prepared, moving in the winter can go smoothly.  Whether it’s across town or moving across the country, take some of the hassle out of getting from Point A to Point B when the weather outside is frightful.

Your moving timelines are going to change as winter settles in, especially if you live somewhere with lots of snow and ice. Whether you plan on hiring movers to help expedite the packing and loading process or want to do everything yourself, it’s possible that your moving dates may need to shift. Be flexible. It isn’t just a matter of inconvenience. It’s a safety issue.

Packing as early as possible is always great advice for a move, but it makes even more sense during the winter months. Seasonal clothing like shorts, tank tops, and other summer gear is probably packed away, anyway, but if there’s anything that you won’t immediately use, box it up.

In addition to packing up boxes, you’ll want to spend some time preparing the outside of your home for a move. If the weather has recently dropped snow on your doorstep or slick conditions on the driveway, take some time to clear these areas off. Either you or your movers will be going in and out hundreds of times on moving day. The last thing you want is someone to slip and fall on a patch of ice or snow.

If possible, put down towels, rugs, or plastic sheeting in high traffic areas to protect your carpeting and hardwood floors from slushy ice and snow. Rock salt and sand can damage floors, too, so take care if you’ve had to use those things recently.

If you’re moving across town, take a quick trip over to the new house before the day of your move and ensure utilities are turned on and working properly. Take note of any lightbulbs that may be out and replace them prior to the move, if possible. Daylight hours are shorter during the winter months, so you may be finishing up your move after sunset. And while it may be a little more expensive to run the furnace over those few days, having a warm home to move into will definitely be worth it.