Luton tail life van being filled with boxes an an impending house move
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Moving House in the Rain

Autumn has arrived and right behind it approaching with ever-increasing speed is Winter and unfortunately, the prospect of moving house at this time of year with the (what seems to be constant) rain can be extremely challenging and definitely unappealing, but with the right approach, you can make the process run much smoother.

Here are ten tips for moving house in the pouring rain using a locally hired van:

The key to moving house efficiently though, is making sure you have the right size van for the job. Your local van hire company will help you decide what vehicle best suits your needs, however most house moves are usually done with a Luton van.

1. Use Waterproof Covers

  • Invest in plastic tarps or waterproof moving covers to protect your furniture, boxes, and other belongings from getting soaked. Garbage bags can be used for smaller items or clothes.

2. Wrap Electronics and Valuables Securely

  • Wrap electronics, fragile items, and important documents in waterproof plastic wrap or bags. Double-layer them for extra protection.

3. Cover the Van Floor

  • Place old blankets or towels on the floor of the van to absorb water and prevent your items from getting wet from below.

4. Pack Efficiently

  • Load items that are most sensitive to water, such as electronics and fabrics, towards the back of the van where they’ll be more sheltered. Stack plastic bins and waterproofed boxes in layers to create a barrier for more vulnerable items.

5. Create an Assembly Line

  • If you have help, create an assembly line with one person inside the house passing items to someone outside to minimize trips in and out of the rain. This can help reduce how wet things get and speeds up the process.

6. Wear Appropriate Gear

  • Equip yourself and any helpers with waterproof clothing, non-slip shoes or boots, and gloves. This helps prevent slipping and keeps everyone more comfortable in wet conditions.

7. Dry Off Boxes Before Loading

  • Before placing wet boxes or items in the van, dry them off with towels. This prevents water from seeping inside and damaging your belongings.

8. Use the Van as Shelter

  • Park the van as close as possible to the door of your home. If that’s not feasible, use the back door of the van as a temporary shelter while loading.

9. Keep the Essentials Separate

  • Put essential items like important documents, a change of clothes, and some towels in a separate bag that stays with you, either in the front of the van. This will keep them dry and accessible.

10. Drive Slowly and Carefully

  • Wet roads can be dangerous. Take your time driving the van, allowing extra stopping distance, and be cautious on slippery surfaces when loading or unloading.

With these precautions, you can minimize the inconvenience and potential damage that rain could cause during your move.

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