Moving house can be a stressful experience, even before adding high temperatures into the mix. If you’re moving house during summer or on a particularly hot day, effective planning and support is key.
Our team is well used to moving in hot weather both in the UK and overseas, so we know all the tricks to keeping cool, staying hydrated and keeping calm and efficient , so everything can go as planned even when the sun is blazing.
From making sure you are drinking enough and taking regular breaks, to lifting and moving heavy items without breaking a sweat, these steps will help to make your home move run smoothly – despite the heat.
Stay hydrated
Hydration is essential in high temperatures. With a series of amber heat alerts across the UK in recent weeks, and with more on the way, protecting your health during your move should be a priority.
Moving house often involves a lot of time inside, packing and lifting heavy items, so ensure that you drink plenty of water to help you keep cool throughout the day.
Having drinks handy and offering water to everyone working with you can help prevent dehydration and keep everyone feeling well during your home move.
Slow down
Our bodies face additional pressures in the heat and use more energy to stay cool. This makes it even more important to take regular breaks. Organising tasks into intervals can help you to stay in control, while supporting well-being.
Try not to rush the moving process, as this could lead to you feeling unwell or overly hot. Allowing extra time – particularly for more strenuous activities like heavy lifting – is worthwhile.
Taking it slow might be frustrating, but the last thing you want is a trip to A&E on your moving day!
Making sure you have access to fans will help as well, so you have the benefit of some cool air whilst packing and lifting heavy items – just don’t forget to put them in the removals van before you leave!
Protect your belongings
Household belongings can also be affected by heat. In particular, electronics and heat-sensitive belongings like candles or artwork are at risk.
You should aim to transport items in protective conditions where possible. Using a professional removals van is an effective way to safeguard your items and provide additional peace of mind.
Dress appropriately
Prioritising comfort is important in the heat. Wearing light, breathable clothing can make you feel more at ease, supporting a smoother home move. However, don’t be tempted to wear flimsy footwear like sandals or flip flops – protecting yourself from heavy furniture is more important.
If there’s a chance you’ll be spending time outside, for example putting up garden furniture or sheds, remember to use sun protection such as suncream and hats, and use shady areas where possible.
You should also suncream your arms if you’re driving a van – you’ll be amazed how quickly you can build up a classic ‘trucker’s arm’ with sun shining through the window.
Keep essentials together
Home moves involve a lot of packing and boxes, and it can be frustrating when you can’t find what you’re looking for. Using proper packing solutions with clear labelling can make it easier to navigate your belongings.
It is also advised to keep essentials on-hand and in one place. For example, you could add key items like medication, water, food, chargers, toiletries and suncream to a bag. This removes the stress of not having access to vital items.
Look after others
Looking after ourselves is a priority in the heat, but it’s also important to check in with others. Our removals team are here to support you – and can assist in making the removals process easier at each stage, from packing to transport.
It’s also key to help vulnerable others like children and pets, who may be at risk from the heat. Keeping extra water and snacks, or cool items, available can ensure that everyone is protected. Pets also benefit from a shaded area of rest.
Prepare in advance
Even during a heatwave, proper preparation can allow for a positive home move. You should always aim to stay up-to-date with weather forecasts and be prepared to adapt your plans or slow down during a heatwave.
Ensuring you have the proper resources – like packing boxes and vans – well ahead of time reduces added worry.
Moving house yourself can be very rewarding if your friends and family pitch in and follow a clear plan, but a hot day can make even the most organised team wish they hired the professionals.
For the most stress-free (and sweat-free) moving experience, give our team a call. We’ll handle the heat while you focus on settling into your new home.
To find out more about our removals services, get in touch.