Moving in Spokane
Spokane's winters are long and snowy, and a winter move here takes more planning than a summer one. NOAA's engineering weather data for Spokane lists a 50-year ground snow load of 42 pounds per square foot and an average of about 72 freeze-thaw cycles a year. Those are building figures, but they describe the snow and ice a winter moving crew has to work through.
Snow and ice
Clear snow and treat ice on every path the crew will use, at both homes, before they arrive: driveways, sidewalks, steps and porches. Carrying a dresser down icy steps is how people get hurt. Ask the mover whether they bring their own traction aids and ramps. Make sure the truck has somewhere clear to park, since snowbanks can block curbs and narrow streets.
Deicer on the floors
During one December 2021 snow event, City of Spokane crews put down 544 tons of granular deicer, sand and salt and 173,709 gallons of liquid deicer. What's on the streets gets tracked inside. Ask the mover to lay floor runners at both homes, put mats at every door, and wipe furniture feet before placing pieces on hardwood or carpet.
Things that shouldn't freeze
In a cold truck, liquids can freeze and burst, paints and some cleaning products can be ruined, and plants can die. Electronics and musical instruments don't like the cold either. Move liquids, plants and sensitive items in your own heated car, ask the mover to load the rest last and unload first, and let electronics warm up before switching them on.
Short days
Winter days are short. A move that runs late may finish in the dark, in the cold. Start early, have everything packed and labeled, and keep the paths lit at both ends.
Storms and rescheduling
Ask the mover what happens if a storm hits on your move date, and have a backup plan for lease or closing dates.
Summer moves
Summers are the busiest moving season, and they can be hot and dry. Start early, keep water on hand, and keep heat-sensitive belongings out of a parked truck.
Peak dates
Weekends, month-end and summer are the busiest times. Book early for those dates.
Snow gear and winter equipment
Snowblowers, shovels, sleds, skis and winter tires take up space and often get forgotten until the last load. Empty fuel from snowblowers before the move. Bundle skis and poles, and bag winter tires so they don't mark furniture in the truck. Keep a shovel and a bag of ice melt in your own car on moving day, so you can clear a path at the new home if the crew arrives to fresh snow.
Spring thaw
Spring brings melting snow, mud and wet ground. Lay runners and boards over soft lawns if the truck or dollies have to cross them, and protect floors from muddy boots.
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.