Spring, as well as early summer, can be quite unstable when it comes to the weather conditions. “April showers bring May flowers” we’ve heard this so many times, and even though we do know our land needs moisture, we also pray to avoid downpour when we need to relocate to Chicago city.
Who likes to move when raining? Nobody enjoys it because rain is one of the most inconvenient things for the relocation day. However, if you are one of the less fortunate ones to transfer your valuable belongings in bad weather, here is how to do it while staying safe and protecting all the items. Good moving and packing tips are sometimes worth gold!
Make a Good Plan
It’s good to be aware of the weather at least some time in advance. We assume you will check the weather forecast on your scheduled move and if you know the rainy day is approaching, it will be useful to know what you will do and in what order. The key is to expose your boxes and other items to the rain as short as possible. Make some order on how you will transport the items to the moving truck (big to small, heavy to light) and work fast.
Proper planning also involves preparing a backup plan. If the rain becomes too heavy to continue safely, knowing when to pause and wait for better weather is essential. Additionally, coordinate with your movers to ensure they are prepared for rainy conditions and have the necessary equipment like tarps and waterproof coverings.
Plastic Bags are Your Friends
Cardboard and water aren’t the best of friends, as expected. If left in the rain, the cardboard will quickly soak up all the water, and the inside will be ruined. However, plastic is what you can depend on! Plastic boxes are not only sturdy – they are easy to stack up and waterproof. However, if you’ve already used the old-school boxes, you can always pack the smaller ones in the plastic trash bins as additional support. Some items won’t need extra coverage, so it’s up to you to assess what needs additional protection.
For larger items, consider using heavy-duty plastic wrap or moving blankets with waterproof covers. For delicate items, seal them in smaller plastic bags before placing them in boxes. This extra layer of protection ensures that even if the outer box gets wet, the contents inside remain safe.
Keep Dirt Out Of House
Relocating to Chicago area – or anywhere, for that matter – in the rain can be quite messy. If you and your reliable Chicago movers keep getting inside and out of your home, grabbing items and carrying them around, you will all make a huge mess. It doesn’t matter whether it’s the home you’re leaving or going in to – make sure to minimize the dirt transfer. On a stormy and rainy day, make sure to transfer as many belongings closer to the front door as possible.
Lay down absorbent mats or old rugs near entrances to catch water and mud from shoes. You can also use disposable shoe covers for added cleanliness. Preparing an assembly line with movers stationed both indoors and outdoors can reduce the amount of foot traffic inside the home, keeping things cleaner.
Stay Safe
Slippery sidewalk in bad weather can be a dangerous territory so make sure to watch your step and, even if you need to work fast not to damage the items, be sure to act cautiously. People can get hurt both inside and outside – the best way to prevent indoor accidents is to put something on the floors, like cardboard. On the other hand, if you are facing heavy rain and have the option to wait, at least for a little while, until the weather settles down a bit, do it.
Wearing shoes with good traction and keeping paths clear of obstacles will help prevent accidents. If you are moving during a thunderstorm, avoid handling metal objects outdoors and seek shelter until the storm passes. Your safety and the safety of your movers should always come first.
Unpack Quickly
Leaving the soaked boxes lying around your new home, apartment, or even office, is the worst thing you can do to the items inside, but also to the carpets that they’re on. Rain can have its advantages – it will speed up the unpacking process to avoid damaging your goods. See? There are good sides to anything in life!
To speed up drying, use towels to wipe down wet items and place damp boxes in a well-ventilated area. Avoid stacking wet boxes, as this can lead to further damage. For items that need additional care, such as electronics, inspect them carefully before use to ensure they are completely dry.
Conclusion
Rain on moving day might seem like a major inconvenience, but with the right preparation and mindset, it doesn’t have to ruin your plans. From strategic packing and using plastic bags to protecting floors and prioritizing safety, there are many ways to overcome the challenges of moving in the rain. Remember to stay calm, work efficiently, and unpack quickly to minimize the impact of bad weather. With these tips, you can handle a rainy move like a pro and enjoy settling into your new space, rain or shine!
