Moves for Seniors Blog

As fall approaches and we say good bye to the heat and humidity and hello to the crisp air, colorful leaves and pumpkins; and before we know it, snow, many northerners are preparing for their annual move to warmer climates. These seniors are commonly referred to as “Snowbirds” and are known for their annual migration, escaping the frigid winters of the north.

Photo Credit | Deposit Photo | @ Nupix

Moving to warmer weather avoids the hassles of winter – icy roads, layers of clothing, heavy winter jackets and clearing off your car. The warmer days down south provides longer, sunny days, Vitamin D and an overall happier outlook on life!

Preparing your primary residence for winter

When moving away for the winter season, you will need to figure out what items will be accompanying you and which will not. Below are a few simple things to do prior to moving.

• Bring all forms of ID and important documents. Whether you’re taking a plane or driving to your secondary residence, you will need to bring all forms of ID; including driver’s license, social security card, passport etc. Make sure all forms of ID are up to date prior to your move. Keep in mind that important documents should not be shipped with a moving company, but kept with you at all times during your migration.

• Locate a climate controlled storage unit. If you do not plan to move furniture back and forth because you rent your primary residence and move out at the conclusion of the summer, storing items is an easy solution. Choose a storage unit with climate control to ensure your items will not be ruined by the cold weather.

Photo Credit | Deposit Photos | @ Sunlover

• Lock up and turn everything off. If you own your primary residence, this is for you. Make certain that everything including your shed, your garage, and any other outdoor storage space is locked. Turn off the water so that your pipes do not freeze and large appliances to help save energy and money. Keep your heat on very low, but do not allow your house to get lower that 55 degrees as it will take more energy to get your house back to a comfortable temperature then it does to maintain the set temperature of 55 degrees.

• Have someone keep an eye on your home. If you own your primary residence, it is smart idea to ask a trusted neighbor, friend or family member to keep an eye on your home; choose someone who is able to do frequent checks making sure that everything is in order. If you need someone to enter your home, make sure to provide them with a key so that they can access your home.

After making the proper arrangements for the care and maintenance of your primary home, check out these additional tips to help you prepare for your trek to warm weather.

• Bring a variety of clothing for the duration. Be sure to include a flexible stash of clothing for changes in climate during your winter refuge. While you will need many short sleeves and shorts for the warmer climates at your secondary home, nights tend to get chilly, so it is important to be prepared for these mild shifts in temperature.

• Research whether or not you will need a driver’s license in the state of your secondary residence. You may be required to have a driver’s license in both states that you reside in. Check with your local DMV in each state.

• Shipping your belongings to your secondary residence. If this is your first seasonal migration, make sure to thoroughly research shipping companies that will treat your belongings with care and provide a positive experience. Once you find a seasonal shipping company you can trust, you will be able to utilize them annually with confidence.

• Transporting your car. If you plan to driver your car, you should have it inspected prior to your departure. Give a call to your local mechanic to schedule the maintenance of your vehicle so that any issues can be taken care of before you hit the road. It may also help to tell the mechanic how many miles you are planning to drive so that they are better educated on what areas of the car need to be inspected closely. If you are going to transport your car, make sure to find a reputable auto shipping company.

Need help with your seasonal shipping? Call us at (800) 227-0515. We specialize in shipping seniors’ furniture, antiques and much more. We will provide you with a senior move checklist that will help with the packing. Click here for a free quote!