Moving in Boise
Boise's seasons give you a real choice about when to move. The National Weather Service describes Boise as semi-arid, with just over eleven inches of rain and melted snow a year at the airport, most of it falling from November through May, and snowfall averaging around 20 inches, though it has ranged from a few inches to 30 or 40. Summers are hot and dry; winters bring snow and cold. Spring and fall are often the easiest moving seasons.
Summer moves
Boise's all-time record high is 111°F, set on July 19, 1960. On hot days, start early, keep water on hand and expect the crew to take breaks. Keep heat-sensitive belongings, such as candles, records, photographs, electronics and medications, out of a parked truck. Dry heat is also hard on wood furniture and pianos when they sit in a hot truck; ask the mover to load them last and unload them first.
Winter moves
Snow and ice make carrying furniture dangerous. Clear and treat every walkway, step and driveway the crew will use, at both homes, before they arrive. Ask the mover to lay floor protection for wet boots, and keep the heat on at both ends. Some belongings, such as liquids, paints, plants and electronics, shouldn't freeze in a cold truck; move them yourself if you can, and let electronics warm up before switching them on.
Salt brine
The Idaho Transportation Department uses salt-and-sand mixtures and salt brine in its winter highway maintenance. Salty slush gets tracked indoors. Floor runners and mats at every door protect hardwood and carpet, and wiping furniture feet before placing it helps.
Storms and rescheduling
Ask the mover what happens if a winter storm hits on your move date. Have a backup plan for closing or lease dates.
Growing neighborhoods
New subdivisions sometimes have streets that aren't finished, limited parking or construction traffic. Tell the mover about access, and check whether a large truck can get close to the door.
Peak dates
Weekends, month-end and summer are the busiest times. Book early for those dates.
Spring and fall
If your dates are flexible, Boise's spring and fall are often the most comfortable times to move: cooler days for the crew, less risk of snow and ice, and sometimes easier booking than the summer peak. Rain is more likely from November through May, so keep a stack of old towels and floor runners handy, and wrap upholstered furniture so it doesn't get wet between the door and the truck.
Basements and garages
If your basement or garage is packed with seasonal gear, skis, bikes, camping equipment and holiday decorations. Sort them early and show the mover everything during the walk-through. Empty fuel from mowers, snowblowers and camp stoves; movers generally won't carry it.
Choosing a mover
Ask for a walk-through, a written estimate and an explanation of how the price is calculated. Ask, in writing, what the mover is responsible for if something is damaged.