Moving House in Hot Weather
While we all hope for perfect weather on moving day, hot temperatures require some extra planning to ensure everything runs smoothly. Hiring professionals can certainly help ease the load, but here are Todds Removals Ltd’s top tips for staying cool and safe during a summer move:
1. Watch the Weather
In the week leading up to your move, regularly check the weather forecast — both for your current home and your new address, especially if you’re moving a distance. British summer weather is famously unpredictable, so be ready for anything.
2. Plan and Pack Smart
Get as much done as possible ahead of time. Use the cooler parts of the day — early mornings or evenings — to sort and pack. On moving day, start early while the temperature is lower. This gives you more time, allowing for a slower pace and those all-important rest breaks.
3. Dress for the Job
While it’s tempting to wear loose clothes and sandals, these aren’t ideal for lifting and carrying. Instead:
- Wear natural fibres in light colours to stay cool.
- Choose sturdy shoes or boots to protect your feet — you’ll be doing a lot of walking, and accidents can happen.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and perhaps a hat for extra protection.
4. Pack a Weather-Wise Essentials Box
Your essentials box — the one that goes on the truck last and comes off first — should include:
- Plenty of cold drinks (a cool bag with ice blocks is a great idea).
- A basic wash kit so you can freshen up before heading off.
- Towels that can be dampened and placed around your neck to help cool you down.
5. Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Drink plenty of fluids to replace what you lose through sweat. The heat — and the stress — can dampen your appetite, so aim to eat small amounts regularly. Avoid salty or heavy foods which can make you feel worse.
6. Know the Signs of Overheating
Heat exhaustion is serious. Watch for symptoms like headaches, dizziness, cramps, and fainting. Listen to your body and take regular breaks in the shade or indoors.
7. Keep Your Home Cool
On hot days, keeping windows and doors closed can help retain cooler indoor air — only open them if there’s a breeze or it’s cooler outside. If your curtains or blinds are staying, keep them closed to block out direct sunlight.
8. Protect Your Belongings
Some items can be damaged by heat:
- Keep electronics and photographs out of direct sunlight.
- Avoid leaving them outside — load them straight onto the vehicle.
- Empty your freezer and run down food supplies in advance. Even on short moves, food can spoil quickly in the heat.
9. Care for Plants
Avoid watering your plants on moving day to reduce the risk of water and soil spilling onto furniture. Keep them out of direct sunlight and give them a good water once you’re in your new home.
10. Use Cooling Equipment Wisely
If you have portable fans or air conditioning units, use them in high-traffic areas. Pack them last so they’re easy to access, and don’t forget to drain any water reservoirs before loading.
11. Don’t Forget Your Pets
Pets are particularly vulnerable in hot weather. If possible, arrange for a friend or family member to look after them. If they must stay with you:
- Provide plenty of water.
- Keep them in a shaded area or a cool room — not in the sun or garden.
- Never leave them in a vehicle, even for a short time.
12. Reward Yourself
Once the move is done, treat yourself to a relaxing meal in an air-conditioned restaurant — you’ve earned it!