Winter is one of the busiest times of year for property completions in Cardiff, as many buyers try to get settled before Christmas. Moving between November and February comes with its own challenges: short days, wet Welsh weather, icy mornings and a tight festive calendar. Here is how to plan a winter move that runs smoothly.
- Book your removal company as early as possible for November and December dates.
- Plan around daylight: aim to have loading finished by mid-afternoon.
- Protect floors and carpets at both properties from rain and mud.
- Keep a warm "first night" box with bedding, a kettle and phone chargers.
Why winter moves need extra planning
In winter, it gets dark before 4.30pm in Cardiff for much of December. Combined with rain and the occasional frost, that means less time to load and unload safely. Solicitors, estate agents and removal companies are also at their busiest in the weeks before Christmas, so availability goes quickly.
The good news is that a well-planned winter move is no harder than a summer one. It just needs a little more thought about timing, protection and comfort.
Book your removal company early
If you are hoping to move before Christmas, contact removal companies as soon as you have an idea of your completion date. Fridays and the last two weeks before Christmas fill up first. Getting a free quote early also lets you plan your budget and packing.
Ask whether your removal company has its own self storage. Property chains are more likely to be delayed around the holidays, and a plan B for your furniture takes a huge amount of pressure off on the day.
Work with the daylight
- Ask for an early start so the heaviest loading happens in daylight.
- Make sure outside lights work at both properties, and keep a torch handy.
- Clear paths and steps of leaves. On frosty mornings, a bag of salt or grit by the front door helps prevent slips.
Protect your home from Welsh weather
Rain is the biggest enemy of a winter move. A professional removal team will use floor protection and door covers, wrap furniture in transit blankets and cover mattresses and sofas in protective bags. If you are packing yourself, use strong double wall boxes with lids. They hold their shape far better in damp conditions than supermarket boxes.
Keep a few old towels and a doormat at the new property so wet footwear does not ruin new carpets.
Keep warm and stay organised
Pack a clearly labelled first night box with bedding, towels, a kettle, mugs, tea and coffee, snacks, phone chargers, basic tools and any medication. Ask your removal team to load it last so it comes off the van first.
Before moving day, check how the heating works at your new home, and contact your energy supplier so the gas and electricity are on. Take meter readings at both properties on the day.
Your winter moving day checklist
- Check the weather forecast 48 hours before, and talk to your removal company if severe weather is expected.
- Lay old sheets or floor protection in hallways at both properties.
- Have the heating on at the new property, if possible, before you arrive.
- Keep warm clothes, gloves and a flask in the car, as moving day can be long if you're waiting for keys.
- Keep pets and young children somewhere warm and safe, away from open doors.
- Defrost the freezer 24 hours before, and keep a cool bag for essentials.
Electrical items such as fridges, freezers and TVs can be affected by the cold. Let them warm up to room temperature before plugging them in at your new home.
Moving before Christmas
If you are moving in December, pack decorations separately and label them clearly, rather than mixing them with everyday items. Agree a realistic completion date with your solicitor, as completions often slow down in the final days before the holiday. Keep important documents and valuables with you, not on the van.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to move house in winter?
Demand varies through the year, and the weeks just before Christmas are often very busy. Mid-January to February can be quieter. The best way to compare is to get a free, no-obligation quote for your preferred dates.
Will removals go ahead in bad weather?
In normal rain and cold weather, yes. A professional removal team protects your furniture and floors and works safely. In severe weather such as heavy snow or ice, your removal company will talk to you about the safest plan.
Should I let my fridge settle after a winter move?
Yes. Let fridges, freezers and other electrical items reach room temperature before switching them on, especially after a cold journey.
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