Winter Moving Safety: Protecting Your Family and Belongings in 2025

Moving in Minnesota's winter requires careful attention to safety. From icy walkways to sub-zero temperatures, winter moves present unique hazards. Here's how to keep everyone safe while ensuring your belongings arrive in perfect condition.

Prepare the Pathways

The most common winter moving injuries happen from slips and falls. Before your movers arrive:

• • Shovel and salt all walkways, driveways, and steps
• • Clear a wide path—movers need room to maneuver large items
• • Lay down rubber mats or carpet runners at entry points
• • Keep salt and a shovel accessible for touch-ups throughout the day
• • Clear snow from vehicle loading areas

Protect Your Floors

Snow, salt, and slush tracked inside can damage floors and create slip hazards:

• • Use plastic sheeting or heavy-duty floor runners
• • Place absorbent mats at every entrance
• • Have towels ready to wipe up moisture
• • Consider removing area rugs temporarily to prevent tripping

Temperature-Sensitive Items

Extreme cold can damage many household items:

• • Electronics: Let them warm up before plugging in
• • Liquids: Transport cleaning supplies and toiletries in heated vehicles
• • Plants: Wrap in newspaper and move quickly between heated spaces
• • Musical instruments: Require climate-controlled transport
• • Artwork: Cold can crack paint and warp frames

Dress for the Occasion

Even if you're not doing the heavy lifting, you'll be in and out of the cold:

• • Wear layers you can remove as you warm up
• • Choose waterproof, insulated boots with good traction
• • Keep gloves and hand warmers accessible
• • Have warm beverages ready for breaks

Vehicle Safety

If you're driving a vehicle as part of the move:

• • Ensure vehicles are winterized with appropriate fluids
• • Check tire pressure and tread depth
• • Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle
• • Allow extra travel time for winter road conditions