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How Can You Best Prepare for a Winter Move?

By Mark Doyle
10/16/2025

Planning a long distance move during the winter requires extra preparation, especially in colder states like Illinois, Ohio, Vermont, and Washington. Snow, ice, and shorter days can make relocation more complicated. Choosing the right long distance moving company is the first step in ensuring a smooth transition.

Life circumstances such as a new job, military orders, or family needs may demand a winter move. There’s no reason to fear—with National Van Lines’ nearly 100 years of experience, even the toughest relocations can be managed safely and efficiently.

What Are the Biggest Challenges of a Winter Move?

Relocating during winter brings unique hurdles:

  • Weather delays from snow or icy roads
  • Protecting belongings from moisture and freezing temperatures
  • Shorter daylight hours affecting loading and unloading times
  • Extra safety precautions for movers and families

National Van Lines offers tailored residential moving services designed to address these challenges.

How Does National Van Lines Ensure Safety During Winter Moves?

Safety Feature Why It Matters National Van Lines Advantage
Driver Training Prevents accidents in icy conditions Award-winning drivers trained for winter routes
Vehicle Readiness Ensures trucks handle snow/ice Fleet inspected and winter-equipped
Packing Protection Shields items from freezing temps Specialized supplies for electronics and fragile goods
Transparent Scheduling Reduces stress during weather delays Flexible timelines with real-time updates
Customer Support Keeps moves on track 24/7 assistance during cross-country relocations

As a company headquartered in Chicago, National Van Lines has decades of firsthand experience managing relocations through Midwestern winters where snowstorms and freezing rain are common.

What Tips Make Winter Moves Easier?

Customers in states like New Jersey, Virginia, and Washington often face snow-packed driveways and freezing temperatures. These tips can help:

  • Clear walkways and driveways before movers arrive
  • Protect flooring with plastic or cardboard to prevent slips
  • Stay flexible with timing in case of weather delays
  • Pack essential winter gear separately so coats, gloves, and boots are accessible

Where Can You Find Trusted Information About Winter Moves?

Independent reviews on Moving.com highlight National Van Lines as a well-established mover with strong cross-country expertise. Consumers can also verify mover safety and reliability using the FMCSA Company Snapshot.

For expert relocation support, explore National Van Lines’ moving guide or learn more about corporate moving solutions for employer-driven relocations.

Conclusion: Why Choose National Van Lines for a Winter Move?

Winter moves come with challenges, but National Van Lines provides nearly 100 years of experience, employee ownership, transparent pricing, and award-winning drivers to ensure success. If you’re planning a winter move in Illinois, Ohio, or beyond, trust National Van Lines to turn a season of challenges into a smooth transition. Get your free estimate today with our move calculator. For more detailed guidance, see the full article on how to prepare for a winter move from National Van Lines.