Moving in the Rain? Your Ultimate Guide to a Dry and Stress-Free Move
You’ve planned for weeks, packed countless boxes, and the big day is finally here. You peek outside, only to see grey skies and a miserable drizzle that’s threatening to turn into a downpour. Moving house is stressful enough without adding a wild weather forecast to the mix.
But don’t panic. While moving in the rain is not ideal, it is absolutely manageable with the right preparation and strategy. A bit of rain doesn’t have to ruin your belongings or your moving day spirit. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to keep your possessions, your old and new homes, and yourself safe and dry.
Before the Storm Hits: Your Pre-Move Rain-Proofing Plan
Success on a rainy moving day begins well before the first drop falls. If you see bad weather on the horizon, it’s time for some proactive waterproofing.
Gather Your Rain-Proofing Arsenal:
Your first step is to assemble a moving day survival kit specifically for wet weather. You’ll need:
- Heavy-Duty Rubbish Bags: Perfect for quickly covering smaller items, cushions, lampshades, and even small electronics.
- Plastic Stretch Wrap: This is your best friend. Buy it in large rolls from a hardware or packing supply store. It’s ideal for wrapping upholstered furniture, wooden items, and mattresses.
- Tarps: A few large, waterproof tarps are essential for creating temporary shelters and covering large items during the short dash from the door to the truck.
- Old Towels and Blankets: Have a massive stack ready. You’ll use them for everything from wiping down wet boxes to protecting your floors.
- High-Quality Packing Tape: Don’t skimp here. Use good quality tape to securely seal the top and bottom seams of all your cardboard boxes to prevent moisture from seeping in.
- Waterproof Document Holders: Your important papers—passports, birth certificates, moving contracts—should be sealed in waterproof bags or folders.
Pack Smart, Pack Dry:
Think strategically when packing your boxes. Cardboard becomes weak and flimsy when wet.
- Seal Every Seam: Go over the top and bottom of every box with packing tape. This is your first line of defence.
- Prioritise Electronics and Valuables: Pack sensitive items like computers, TVs, and sentimental photos with extra care. Consider double-boxing them or lining the box with a plastic bag before you pack the item inside.
On Moving Day: Your Action Plan for a Downpour
When the day arrives, it’s all about efficiency and protection.
Create a Covered Assembly Line:
The goal is to minimise the time your belongings are exposed to the elements.
- Use the Garage: If you have one, make it your command centre. Move all boxes and furniture into the garage before the removalist truck arrives. This way, you can load everything from a dry, covered space.
- Get the Truck as Close as Possible: Ask your removalists to park the truck as close to your main door or garage as they can. Every metre saved is less exposure to rain.
- The Tarp Shield Method: For the short trip from the door to the truck, have two people hold a large tarp overhead like a canopy to shield furniture and boxes as they are carried out.
Wrap Everything (And We Mean Everything):
Anything that is not already in a sealed box should be wrapped.
- Furniture: Use plastic stretch wrap to completely cocoon fabric sofas, chairs, and wooden furniture. It will protect them from rain and a build-up of moisture inside the truck.
- Mattresses: A wet mattress is a recipe for mould and mildew. Use a dedicated plastic mattress protector bag. If you don’t have one, wrap it thoroughly with plastic wrap or clean tarps.
Dress for Success:
Your comfort and safety are paramount. Wear a good raincoat and, most importantly, sturdy, non-slip, waterproof shoes. Gumboots or work boots are ideal. You need a solid grip on slippery surfaces.
Protecting Your Homes (Old and New)
Rainy day moves create a second challenge: a mess of mud, water, and grime being tracked through both your old and new properties.
- Create Floor Protection Pathways: Lay down old towels, flattened cardboard boxes, or drop sheets to create a clear walking path from the entrance to each room. This will soak up water and catch dirt.
- Establish a “Wipe-Down Zone”: Place a stack of old, dry towels right near the entrance of both homes. Make it a rule that every person and every item gets a quick wipe-down as they enter.
Safety First: Avoiding Slips and Accidents
Rain makes everything slippery and more dangerous. Slow down and prioritise safety over speed.
- Take Your Time: Rushing on wet surfaces is a recipe for disaster. Move deliberately and carefully.
- Clear Outdoor Paths: Sweep away any wet leaves or debris from driveways, paths, and porches to reduce the risk of slipping.
- Be Mindful of Grip: Remember that wet cardboard boxes are harder to grip and can become heavy and unstable. Ensure you have a firm hold before you lift.
What to Expect from Your Removalists
Worried your removalists might cancel? It’s highly unlikely. Professional moving companies are well-equipped to handle bad weather.
- They’re Pros: They have the experience and equipment (like heavy-duty blankets and trolleys) to move efficiently in the rain.
- Communicate with Them: Give them a call in the morning to confirm. Ask if there’s anything you can do to help prepare, like having floor protection ready.
- Work as a Team: A smooth move is a collaborative effort. By having everything packed, protected, and ready to go, you help them work faster and more safely.
Arriving and Unpacking in the Wet
Your job isn’t over once the truck is unloaded. How you unpack is crucial to preventing long-term damage.
- Wipe Everything Down: As items come into your new home, give them a final wipe with a dry towel before placing them on the floor.
- Prioritise Unpacking Wet Boxes: If any boxes did get damp, unpack them immediately. Leaving items in a damp cardboard box will lead to musty smells and potential mould.
- Aerate Your New Home: Once everything is inside, open some windows (if possible) or run fans to get the air circulating and help dry out any residual moisture.
Moving in the rain is a challenge, but with this plan, you can face it head-on. By preparing in advance, prioritising safety, and protecting your belongings, you’ll be warm, dry, and settled in your new home before you know it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my removalists cancel if it rains?
It is extremely rare for professional removalists to cancel due to rain. They might delay for severe thunderstorms or dangerous winds, but for a standard rainy day, the move will go ahead. Always call to confirm their policy.
How do I protect my mattress from rain when moving?
The best option is a purpose-made plastic mattress bag, available from packing supply stores. The second-best option is to completely wrap it in several layers of plastic stretch wrap or clean, dry tarps, taping all seams shut.
What’s the best way to keep cardboard boxes from getting wet?
Use high-quality boxes and tape all seams securely. Move them quickly from the house to the truck, using a tarp for cover if needed. Don’t let them sit on a wet driveway or lawn.
Is it safe to move electronics in the rain?
Yes, if you take proper precautions. Ensure they are completely powered down and unplugged. Pack them in their original boxes if possible, and place the entire box inside a large plastic rubbish bag before placing it inside another moving box (double-boxing).