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How to Prep Your Vehicle for a Winter Move

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Since people are not bears, there is no hibernation period when the temperature drops. Life goes on; responsibilities cannot be neglected; and sometimes big life stuff, such as moving, does not wait for cold weather to go away.

Whether you’re moving to a new apartment across town or a new home across the country, moving is stressful. Time your move during the winter season, and your stress level will magnify since you’ll be dealing with chilly winds, freezing temps, potential ice, and probably some slushy snow.

In order to combat the extra demands of winter make sure your car is ready for the journey well before moving day.

“Get your car serviced and have all the necessary equipment with you. Make sure you have your car winterized, including all fluids topped up, and tires and brakes checked,” advises TheSpruce.com Writer Diane Schmidt. “You should also carry a gas can, extra windshield fluid, and salt or kitty litter (works great if you get stuck). Have a good snow shovel, emergency blanket and membership to a roadside assistance service, too.”

Be an early bird, so you have as much daylight hours, which are significantly limited during winter, for packing, travelling, and unloading, according to HuffingtonPost.com Writer Andrey Grehov.

“This will allow you to stay safer, since you won’t have to worry about taking loads outside when it’s slippery and dark. Plus, the temperatures are sure to be more comfortable during daytime hours as well,” writes Grehov.

Grehov adds that you should clear your walkways of winter precipitation to avoid falls, dress in layers to stay warm, and keep your winter gear accessible.

“You might need your various winter supplies, such as your windshield scraper or your mittens, so don’t pack them away in boxes. Instead, consider tossing all of your winter supplies into one storage container or laundry basket and keeping them in your car. Keep them in a place where they can be easily accessed if you need them,” according to Grehov.

Schmidt recommends checking that all the roads you’ll be taking are safe for travel before heading out and be sure to pack an “emergency contact list” that includes numbers for the highway patrol, roadside assistance, and a number you can call to monitor highway conditions.

“You should also ensure that someone who isn’t moving with you has a copy of your travel plans. Make a call-in schedule with that person so they’ll know where you are and when you should be arriving,” advises Schmidt.

Since winter can be unpredictable, Schmidt also advises having a Plan B in case you have to postpone your moving plans; discuss options with your movers well in advance to make sure you’re not forced to move when the weather makes travelling dangerous.

News Source: The Spruce, Huffington Post