Are you moving house in winter?

Let’s be realistic: nobody puts “move house in December” at the top of their wish list.

Ideally, we would all move on a warm, dry day in June. But life, job starts, and property chains don’t always align with the seasons.

The good news is that moving in winter has its perks.

The housing market in Dorset often quiets down, meaning you are less likely to be caught in a frantic chain, and you may find you have more flexibility with your completion dates.

However, the South Coast winter brings its own personality—less snow, perhaps, but plenty of rain, coastal winds, and short daylight hours.

To make your move a success, you need to shift your strategy from “speed” to “protection.”

At R.H. Pardy, we have been moving families across Christchurch, Bournemouth, and the New Forest for generations. We know exactly how to handle a wet and windy Dorset move.

Here are our 10 practical tips to keep your winter relocation dry, warm, and stress-free.

1. Beat the Sunset (The 4 PM Deadline)

The biggest enemy in winter isn’t the cold; it’s the dark.

By mid-December, the sun sets around 4:00 PM in Dorset.

Trying to manoeuvre sofas down a garden path in pitch blackness is a recipe for accidents.

Your goal should be to maximise the daylight.

Be packed and ready for the removal crew to start the moment they arrive in the morning.

The more we can load while the sun is up, the safer and faster the process will be.

Ensure all outside lights at both properties are working—change the bulbs a week before if you are unsure.

2. Protect Your Floors from the “Dorset Mud”

We might escape the heavy snow of the North, but Dorset and the New Forest get incredibly muddy. Between wet leaves and rain, it is all too easy to ruin a cream carpet in ten minutes.

Professional movers like R.H. Pardy use specialist floor runners and protective coverings for high-traffic areas like hallways and stairs.

If you are doing any of the moving yourself, put down flattened cardboard or old sheets.

Keep a “mud station” by the door with a coarse doormat and plenty of old towels to wipe down boxes before they enter the living room.

3. The “Warm Welcome” Strategy

There is nothing more miserable than moving into a cold house.

If a property has been empty for a few weeks, it will have lost all its stored heat.

If you can, pick up the keys early and get the heating on a few hours before the van arrives.

If that isn’t possible, ask the sellers if they would be kind enough to leave the heating on a timer/low setting for your arrival.

Walking into a warm hallway makes a massive psychological difference after a long day on the road.

4. Waterproof Your Packing

Cardboard boxes are fantastic, but they act like sponges if left on a wet driveway.

If it is raining heavily on moving day:

• Plastic Totes: Use plastic storage bins for items you might need immediately or for things that are particularly sensitive to damp (like linens).
• Bin Liners: Line your cardboard boxes with bin bags before packing clothes or books for an extra layer of internal waterproofing.
• Tape it Shut: Ensure every seam on your boxes is fully sealed to prevent moisture from seeping in from the bottom.

5. Clear the Approach

Safety is paramount.

Wet leaves on a driveway can be as slippery as ice. Before the removal vehicle arrives, spend ten minutes sweeping the path to your front door.

If a frost is forecast, put down grit or salt the night before.

This protects you, your family, and our removal crew as they carry heavy furniture.

Check the Dorset Council gritting map if you are moving to a more rural location to ensure the roads are clear.

6. Prioritise Lighting in Your “Essentials Box”

You have probably packed a kettle and mugs (standard moving procedure), but in winter, you need to add lighting to your essentials kit.

It is not uncommon for previous owners to take lightbulbs with them, or for bulbs to blow.

Pack a box of spare bayonet and screw-fitting bulbs, plus a couple of torches.

You do not want to be trying to make the beds in the dark because the bedroom light doesn’t work.

7. Be Flexible with the Weather

We all know how quickly the weather can turn on the coast. High winds can sometimes make loading large items dangerous, and flash floods can close rural roads.

Keep an eye on the Met Office forecast in the days leading up to the move.

If a named storm is approaching, call us. We can discuss contingency plans.

Sometimes, shifting the schedule by a few hours is all it takes to miss the worst of the weather.

8. Keep Pets and Kids Warm (and Away)

Doors will be propped open for hours during loading and unloading, turning your house into a wind tunnel.

This is not an excellent environment for young children or pets.

If possible, arrange for them to stay with family or friends for the day.

If they must be there, set up a “safe room” with a heater, toys, and the door closed, so they stay warm and out of the path of heavy lifting.

9. Use Storage as a Buffer

Winter moves are more susceptible to delays—road issues, solicitor hold-ups, or daylight constraints.

Having a Plan B is essential.

At R.H. Pardy, we offer flexible containerised storage at our secure warehouse.

If you can’t get into your new home on time, or if you want to decorate before moving your furniture in, we can hold your items safely for as long as you need.

This takes the pressure off “completion day” panic.

10. Choose a BAR-Accredited Mover

In adverse conditions, you need a team that is trained, insured, and properly equipped. A “man and van” might struggle with icy steps or protecting a grand piano from the rain.

As a member of the British Association of Removers (BAR), R.H. Pardy adheres to strict safety and professionalism standards.

We have the equipment to protect your furniture from the elements and the training to load safely in wet conditions.

It is your assurance that, come rain or shine, your belongings are in safe hands.

Moving House in Winter with R.H. Pardy

Winter might be cold, but your move doesn’t have to be difficult.

With the proper preparation and a professional team, you can be settled in your new home, enjoying a hot chocolate, before you know it.

If you are planning a move in Dorset, Hampshire, or beyond this winter, get in touch with R.H. Pardy.

Call our friendly team today on 01202 484646 or use our online quote form to get started.