What does ice mean for your move? Whether it's the middle of winter, or the early-spring weather is below the freezing mark, ice doesn't have to end your moving day. If the forecast calls for low temperatures and a rain/sleet/snow mix, take a look at the questions to ask a moving company right now.
Can the Moving Trucks Drive Through the Ice?
Ice makes driving dangerous for any vehicle — whether it's a moving truck or not. This means your movers will need to take extra caution during icy weather. If there's a local travel advisory or the roads are too icy to navigate, the contractor will need to wait until it's safe to drive.
Before you assume the mover won't show on an icy day, contact the company. It's possible the roads aren't icy everywhere, or the movers will reschedule your appointment for a later time in the day. Mid-day sunshine or road salt can melt ice, making it safer for the moving trucks to transport your items from one home to another.
What Do You Need to Do to Keep the Movers Safe?
The roads aren't the only issue for movers on an icy day. Your home's sidewalks, walkways, driveway, and steps could pose a serious slip and fall risk. If the movers will need to walk on potentially icy surfaces, you'll need to prep the outdoor area before your scheduled time arrives.
Talk to the contractor about your responsibilities. Don't count on the movers coming to your home with their own salt or de-icing product. Instead, clear away any loose ice, and cover all walkway areas with road salt or a similar substance. Read the instructions on the product and make sure you salt or de-ice all necessary areas in enough time to make them safe for the movers.
Along with de-icing walkways and other similar surfaces, keep the movers safe from falling ice. Remove icicles from your home, other structures, or trees/plants. Clear heavy, low-hanging icy branches or highlight these areas with caution tape. Point out these icy areas to the contractors before they begin the moving process.
Should You Clear Space for the Moving Truck?
If the movers will park on the street, your local municipal public works (or similar) department will salt the area. This means you may need to wait for a salt truck or ask the movers if you can reschedule your appointment for later in the day. But if the movers can park in your driveway, you'll need to keep the asphalt or concrete clear with a de-icing product.
