Moving in the Upper Midwest
Sioux Falls, the seat of Minnehaha County, the most populous county in South Dakota, sees moves in every season, but winter changes the plan. NOAA's 99% winter design temperature for Sioux Falls is −11°F, with about 75 freeze-thaw cycles a year. This guide covers choosing a mover, protecting your belongings in cold weather and what to do if something goes wrong.
Step 1: Choose a mover
- Ask for an in-home or video survey and a written estimate.
- Ask what is included: labor, truck, packing, materials, stairs and extra charges.
- Ask whether the price can change and what would change it.
- Ask what protection the mover offers for damage and how claims work.
- Ask for references from recent local moves.
Step 2: Plan for winter
- Ask about weather delays. What happens if a blizzard closes roads on moving day?
- Clear and salt walkways and driveways at both homes before the crew arrives.
- Protect floors from snow and slush with runners or cardboard.
- Keep heat on in the new home before the move.
Step 3: Protect cold-sensitive belongings
Some items do not handle subzero cold:
- electronics and computers: let them warm to room temperature before turning them on;
- liquids, paint and cleaning products: they can freeze and burst;
- houseplants: move them in your heated car;
- musical instruments, candles and photos: move them yourself if you can.
Step 4: Document
- Photograph furniture and valuables, including existing marks.
- Make a box inventory by room.
- Carry jewelry, documents and medicines yourself.
Step 5: Moving day and delivery
- Walk through with the crew lead.
- Check the inventory as items are loaded and unloaded.
- Note damage on the paperwork before you sign.
Step 6: If something goes wrong
1. Write down damage or missing items on the delivery paperwork, with photos. 2. Contact the mover in writing and ask about their claim process and deadline. 3. Keep copies of the estimate, bill of lading, inventory, photos and all messages. 4. Ask your homeowners or renters insurer what it covers.
Spring and summer moves
Spring thaw can make yards and driveways muddy; ask the mover how they will protect lawns and floors. NOAA lists a 50-year frost depth of 102 inches for Sioux Falls, and frost heave can leave driveways and walks uneven in spring, so check paths for trip hazards before moving day.
Step 7: Settle in
Rekey the locks, update your address, and keep paperwork until any claims are resolved.
Records
Keep estimates, contracts, inventories, photos and claim correspondence together.
Packing tips that prevent claims
Pack heavy items such as books in small boxes and light items in large ones. Wrap dishes one by one and stand plates on edge. Label each box with its room and contents, and mark fragile boxes on several sides. Ask the mover how their protection treats boxes you pack yourself compared with boxes their crew packs.
Utilities and access
Arrange for heat, electricity and water at the new home a day ahead, and confirm parking for the truck. In winter, ask the building or neighbors where the truck can stop without blocking snow removal.