Moving during an Iowa winter takes a little more planning than moving during warmer months. Snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and changing road conditions can all affect moving day, but preparing ahead can help keep your move safe and organized.
Whether you’re moving in Ankeny, Des Moines, West Des Moines, or elsewhere in Iowa, these winter moving tips can help you prepare your home, protect your belongings, and avoid some of the most common cold-weather problems.
Watch the Weather and Stay Flexible
Iowa winter weather can change quickly. Keep an eye on the forecast in the days leading up to your move and be prepared to adjust if conditions become unsafe.
- Check the forecast regularly for snow, ice, wind, and extreme cold.
- Allow extra travel time when roads are snowy or icy.
- Talk with your moving company early if severe weather could affect your move.
- Avoid unnecessary travel if road conditions become unsafe.
- Keep your phone charged so you can communicate throughout moving day.
Winter weather is unpredictable, so flexibility matters. If you are hiring movers, ask ahead of time how weather-related delays or rescheduling are handled.
Clear Driveways, Sidewalks, and Walkways
Snow and ice can make carrying furniture and boxes much more difficult. Before the movers arrive, clear the paths between your home and the moving truck.
Shovel and Treat Slippery Areas
- Shovel sidewalks, driveways, steps, and entryways.
- Use an appropriate ice melt or traction material on slippery areas.
- Pay special attention to stairs, ramps, and shaded areas where ice may remain.
- Watch for downspouts or melting snow that can refreeze near walkways.
- Keep a shovel and ice melt nearby in case conditions change during the day.
Keeping entrances clear protects both your belongings and the people carrying them. Towels near exterior doors can also help manage snow and moisture that gets tracked inside.
Protect Your Floors From Snow and Moisture
Wet boots can quickly bring snow, salt, and slush into your home. Before moving begins, protect high-traffic areas near entrances and along the main walking path.
- Use floor runners or other suitable floor protection in high-traffic areas.
- Keep towels available near exterior doors.
- Wipe up standing water before it creates a slipping hazard.
- Keep boxes and furniture away from wet or slushy areas whenever possible.
Good floor protection is especially important on hardwood floors and other surfaces that may be damaged by moisture or road salt.
Protect Your Belongings From Cold and Moisture
Most household belongings handle short periods of cold weather without a problem, but moisture and extreme temperature changes deserve extra attention.
- Keep boxes dry and out of snow whenever possible.
- Protect mattresses, upholstered furniture, and other soft goods from moisture.
- Use sturdy, well-sealed boxes for clothing, linens, and other absorbent items.
- Keep medications, liquids, and other temperature-sensitive items with you when appropriate.
- Allow cold electronics to gradually return to room temperature before turning them on.
Avoid leaving boxes or furniture sitting outside while snow is falling. Even a small amount of moisture can create problems once items are brought indoors.
Dress Warm and in Layers
Moving usually means going in and out of the house repeatedly. Dressing in layers makes it easier to stay comfortable as you move between indoor and outdoor temperatures.
Wear Gloves With Good Grip
Choose gloves that provide warmth without making it difficult to safely carry boxes or furniture. Bulky mittens may limit your grip and dexterity.
Moisture-wicking layers, warm socks, and proper winter footwear can also make a big difference. Keep an extra pair of gloves and socks available in case the first pair gets wet.
Make Sure Your New Home Has Heat
Before moving day, confirm that heat, electricity, and water are working at your new home. Arriving at a cold house can make an already long moving day much more difficult.
- Activate utilities before your move whenever possible.
- Confirm that the furnace or heating system is working.
- Keep coats, blankets, and other cold-weather essentials easily accessible.
- Pack drinks, snacks, and basic kitchen supplies separately.
- Make sure exterior lights are working if your move could continue after dark.
It is also worth confirming utility appointments ahead of time because winter weather can sometimes affect service schedules.
Prepare for Winter Driving
Road conditions can change quickly during an Iowa winter. Whether you are driving your own vehicle or traveling behind the moving truck, allow extra space and extra time.
Keep Emergency Supplies in Your Vehicle
Consider carrying an ice scraper, phone charger, jumper cables, blankets, flashlight, and other basic winter emergency supplies.
Check your tires before moving day, fill your windshield washer reservoir with winter-rated fluid, and make sure you have enough fuel. If significant winter weather is expected, check road conditions before leaving.
Keep an Essentials Bag With You
Winter weather makes it especially important to keep a few necessities with you instead of packing everything onto the moving truck.
- Warm clothing and extra socks
- Gloves, hats, and winter coats
- Medications
- Phone chargers
- Basic toiletries
- Snacks and water
- Important documents
This gives you easy access to the things you need even if unloading takes longer than expected.
Winter Moving Tips for Iowa
The biggest difference between a winter move and a warm-weather move is preparation. Clear walking paths, protect floors, monitor road conditions, and keep cold-weather essentials nearby.
If conditions become unsafe, safety should take priority over staying on schedule. A small delay is better than risking an accident on icy roads or walkways.
Additional Winter Moving Resources
For more local moving advice, read our Des Moines moving guide.
You can also visit the National Weather Service Winter Safety page for information about winter storms, extreme cold, and winter driving safety.
Moving in Iowa This Winter?
Blue Cow Moving & Storage helps homeowners throughout Central Iowa move safely and efficiently year-round. Our crews come prepared to protect your home and belongings while keeping your move organized from start to finish.
If you are planning a winter move in Ankeny, Des Moines, West Des Moines, or the surrounding area, we would be honored to help.
