6 Ways to Make a Rainy Move Easier In Washington

What do you need to know about moving on a rainy fall day? Washington's annual rainfall varies from between 32 and 35 inches between the Canadian border and Seattle to up to 45 inches near Centralia, according to the Western Regional Climate Center. With plenty of chilly, wet days on the way, take a look at the top ways to make an autumn move easier.

Pay Attention to the Weather Forecast

Keep a close eye on the weather forecast for your moving day. While you can't control the weather, having advance notice provides you with an easy way to prepare. If the forecast calls for rain, you may need to make adjustments to minimize the impact of the weather.

Ideally, you could change your move date to a day that calls for sun. But it's unlikely that your moving contractor will have an opening available on short notice. This means you need to take the right steps to keep your belongings dry and safe during the moving process.

Protect Your Belongings with Waterproof Packing Supplies

Invest in high-quality waterproof packing materials. Even though these will come at a cost to you, it's possible to reuse many of these items during your next move or in other ways (such as for in-home or off-site storage). The top materials to consider include heavy-duty plastic bins with tight-fitting lids, waterproof tarps, plastic wrap, and sturdy plastic bags.

Cardboard boxes are low-cost (or sometimes free) moving c containers that are easy to use, lightweight, and are recyclable. But cardboard isn't waterproof.

When left out in the rain, your cardboard boxes will get soggy and could crumble during the move. If you can't get plastic bins and have to use cardboard boxes, securely seal the seams with packing tape to prevent moisture from seeping in. Wrap the boxes in plastic, place them inside of large waterproof plastic bags, or cover them with waterproof tarps.

Cover Furniture and Electronics

Larger items, such as furniture and electronics, won't easily fit into heavy-duty plastic bins. This could leave your leather sofa, large-screen TV, or other sensitive item exposed to the elements. Instead of moving these items as-is, use heavy-duty plastic covers or furniture pads to shield them from rain.

Cover the items before the movers arrive to increase efficiency and decrease the likelihood of moisture damage.

If possible, disassemble furniture ahead of time. This makes it easier to protect and transport items such as tables or bed frames. Some smaller parts can fit into sealable plastic bins for your move. Make sure to keep these items together and label the bins properly to make assembly easier.

Create a Rain-Proof Pathway for the Movers

Minimize the likelihood that the movers will track mud and water through your home by creating a protected pathway from the moving truck to your front door. Lay down waterproof drop cloths or plastic sheets, and secure them in place to prevent slipping accidents.

You can also use pop-up tents to cover the outdoor area. This will shield the movers and your belongings. Recreate the rain-proof pathway at your new home too.

Dress Appropriately for the Weather

Even though the movers will do the bulk of the work, you will still need to venture outdoors to provide directions or oversee the process. Wear appropriate clothing for the rainy weather, such as a waterproof rain jacket, boots, and waterproof gloves. You may also want to keep a change of clothes handy in case you get wet during the move.

Keep Towels and Rags Nearby

You've made the best efforts to create a rain-proof pathway and have covered your floors in tarps or plastic sheeting. But this doesn't mean the rain, mud, and muck can't get in or can't get on you. Have a supply of towels, rags, and absorbent materials readily available to quickly dry off any items or surfaces that get wet during the move. Wipe down items as they come inside to prevent water damage.

Do you want to learn more about the moving process or do you need to schedule a moving service? Contact United Moving and Storage for more information.