The British weather doesn’t always cooperate with moving day. Rain, snow, or high winds can quickly turn a well-planned move into a stressful one.
But with a bit of preparation and some practical steps, you can protect your belongings and keep things running smoothly no matter what the forecast says.
Here’s how to move home safely and efficiently, even when the weather isn’t on your side.
1. Check the Forecast Early
Always check the weather a few days before your move. The Met Office or BBC Weather app can give you a good idea of what to expect.
If heavy rain or snow is predicted, contact your removals company to confirm their plans and ask about backup options.
Steps to take:
- Monitor forecasts in the week leading up to your move
- Keep an eye on travel disruptions or local road closures
- Prepare an alternative moving day if conditions are unsafe
- Have a storage option ready if plans need to change
If you face delays, using temporary storage is a simple way to keep your belongings safe until the weather clears.
2. Protect Boxes and Furniture from Rain
Water is the biggest threat during a move. It can damage furniture, ruin boxes, and make floors slippery.
Use waterproof materials to cover your items and plan your loading process to reduce exposure to the elements.
Ways to protect your belongings:
- Wrap furniture in plastic sheeting or stretch wrap
- Use bin bags for soft furnishings or clothes
- Place towels or old blankets over delicate items
- Load waterproofed items into the van first
- Keep a mop and towels ready to dry surfaces
If you’re storing items between moves, secure storage units keep everything dry and protected year-round.
3. Prepare Your Home for Wet or Muddy Conditions
Bad weather doesn’t just affect what’s outside. Mud, water, and dirt can quickly make their way into both your old and new homes.
Simple ways to protect floors and carpets:
- Lay old sheets or plastic on high-traffic areas
- Keep towels near entryways
- Ask movers to wear shoe covers if possible
- Use cardboard sheets to create a path through the house
Once you’ve moved out, check out our home storage page if you need to keep some items out of the way while cleaning or redecorating.
4. Dress for the Weather
Moving in bad weather means you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors. Dress in layers so you can adjust to the temperature as you work.
Recommended clothing:
- Waterproof jacket and boots
- Gloves with grip for carrying boxes
- Warm layers you can move comfortably in
- Spare socks or clothes in case you get wet
If conditions are icy, take extra care when lifting or walking on slick surfaces.
5. Start Early and Allow Extra Time
Bad weather slows everything down. Slippery roads, delays with removals, or limited visibility all take more time.
Avoid rushing, as that’s when accidents happen.
Plan ahead by:
- Starting early in the day to maximise daylight
- Allowing time for drying items and cleaning floors
- Keeping essentials like tea, snacks, and towels accessible
- Having an emergency plan if moving becomes unsafe
If weather conditions make it impossible to complete the move, no deposit storage gives you a flexible backup plan until things improve.
6. Secure Fragile Items Carefully
Temperature changes and wet conditions can make fragile items even more at risk. Wrap everything tightly and use strong, waterproof boxes where possible.
Extra protection for fragile belongings:
- Double-wrap glassware and ceramics
- Seal boxes with heavy-duty tape
- Use plastic tubs for high-value items
- Line boxes with towels or packing paper
- Mark clearly as “Fragile – Keep Dry”
See our guide on how to pack fragile items safely for more packing advice.
7. Keep Essentials Separate
If your main load gets delayed, you’ll want your essentials to hand. Pack a separate bag or box that stays with you throughout the move.
Include in your essentials box:
- Dry clothes and spare footwear
- Towels, hand wipes, and cleaning supplies
- Snacks, tea, and bottled water
- Phone charger and important documents
- Basic toiletries and medication
Having these ready can make all the difference if you arrive at your new home late or soaked from the rain.
8. Check Parking and Access
Bad weather can affect where removal vans can park or unload. Rain or snow may make driveways slippery or inaccessible.
To avoid problems:
- Clear paths of snow, ice, or leaves before moving day
- Use grit or salt to improve grip
- Confirm parking arrangements with your removals team
- If needed, use free van hire to transport smaller loads in multiple trips
Having a clear, dry route between your home and the van reduces the risk of damage or accidents.
9. Keep Tools and Cleaning Products Handy
You’ll likely need to do some cleaning once everything’s out, especially if mud or water has made its way indoors.
Keep nearby:
- Mop and bucket
- Towels and rags
- Bin bags
- Cleaning spray and disinfectant
- Doormats for both properties
You can also use this opportunity to declutter or place non-essential items into storage while your new home dries and settles.
10. Consider Postponing If Conditions Are Dangerous
While most moves can continue in bad weather, some situations just aren’t worth the risk. Heavy snow, flooding, or gale-force winds can make driving unsafe or damage your belongings.
If you’re forced to postpone, a short-term storage unit can hold everything securely until your new home is ready.
Many customers use 50% off your first 9 weeks to keep their belongings protected during short delays.
Final Thoughts
Moving in bad weather isn’t ideal, but with a bit of planning, the right packing materials, and a reliable backup plan, it can still run smoothly.
If you’re planning a move in Manchester, Cheap Storage Manchester offers secure, affordable storage and practical services like free collections to make things easier when the weather turns.
Visit our moving home page to learn more or get a quote through our contact page.
