Winter Moving in Colorado: The Complete Cold-Weather Playbook

Moving in Colorado during the winter months—November through March—comes with a unique set of challenges and some surprising benefits. While the thought of hauling boxes through snow might seem daunting, a winter move can actually be smoother and more affordable than moving during the frantic summer peak season.

At iHaul iMove, we’ve performed hundreds of winter moves across Colorado Springs, Monument, and the Rocky Mountain region. We know exactly what it takes to keep your belongings safe and your move on schedule, even when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Why Winter Moves Can Be Better Than Summer

Believe it or not, winter is often the “smart choice” for savvy movers in Colorado. Here’s why experienced homeowners choose to move during the colder months:

Lower Moving Costs

Summer is peak season for moving companies, and high demand drives prices up significantly. Winter moves often come with off-peak pricing discounts of 10-20% compared to summer rates. If you’re budget-conscious, scheduling your move between November and February can save you hundreds of dollars.

Better Scheduling Flexibility

During summer, moving companies book up weeks in advance. In winter, you’re more likely to secure your preferred moving date and start time. This flexibility is especially valuable if you’re coordinating a move around work schedules or school transitions.

No Heat Exhaustion

Anyone who has moved during a Colorado summer knows the struggle of carrying heavy furniture in 90°F heat. Winter moves are physically easier on both you and the moving crew. Cooler temperatures mean less fatigue, fewer breaks, and a more efficient move overall.

Key Takeaway: Winter moving in Colorado Springs offers significant cost savings, better availability, and more comfortable working conditions—making it an ideal time for your relocation.

Weather Monitoring and Contingency Planning

In Colorado, the weather can change dramatically within hours. A sunny 50°F morning can transform into a blizzard by afternoon. This unpredictability requires careful planning and flexibility.

Our Approach to Winter Weather

At iHaul iMove, we rarely cancel jobs because of weather—we’re willing to roll through the adversity. We monitor forecasts closely in the days leading up to your move and stay as prepared as we can. Here’s how we handle different conditions:

• Light to Moderate Snow: We proceed as planned. Our trucks have excellent traction, and our crews are experienced in snowy conditions.
• Severe Conditions: When a majority of school districts close for the day, that’s typically our signal that road conditions are unsafe for our trucks. In these cases, we’ll work with you to reschedule.
• Mountain Moves: If you’re moving to or from a mountainous area like Woodland Park, Divide, or Cripple Creek, we take extra precautions. Even a few days to a week after a major snowstorm, mountain roads can remain challenging for moving trucks—even with chains on the tires. We may recommend waiting for conditions to improve in these areas.

Planning Tips for Unpredictable Weather

Build in a buffer. If your lease or closing date allows flexibility, schedule your move with a 1-2 day window. This buffer can be a lifesaver if a storm hits on your originally planned moving day.

Have a backup plan. Know where you’ll stay if the move gets delayed. Whether it’s a friend’s house, hotel, or your current home for an extra night, having options reduces stress.

Stay in communication. We’ll contact you the day before your move to confirm conditions and discuss any concerns. Open communication ensures we’re both on the same page.

Protecting Your Belongings from Cold Temperatures

Cold temperatures can damage certain household items if not handled properly. Here’s what every Colorado mover needs to know:

Electronics and Temperature Sensitivity

Computers, TVs, gaming consoles, and other electronics are sensitive to extreme cold. The biggest risk isn’t the cold itself—it’s condensation. When you bring a cold electronic device into a warm house and turn it on immediately, moisture can form inside the components and cause damage.

What to do:

• Let electronics acclimate to room temperature for at least 24 hours before plugging them in
• If possible, transport high-value electronics in your personal vehicle where you can control the temperature
• Consider keeping original packaging for extra insulation and protection

Liquids, Plants, and Perishables

Liquids can freeze and burst—think cleaning supplies, wine bottles, shampoos, and lotions. Houseplants are even more vulnerable and can die from just a few minutes of exposure to freezing temperatures.

What to do:

• Transport all liquids and plants in your personal vehicle with the heat running
• Consider giving away plants that are particularly sensitive to cold
• Dispose of any liquids that aren’t worth the risk of transporting

Wood Furniture and Temperature Fluctuations

Dry winter air and rapid temperature changes can cause wood furniture to contract, potentially loosening joints or causing cracks. Antique furniture is especially vulnerable.

What to do:

• We use heavy-duty moving blankets that provide both scratch protection and thermal insulation
• Avoid placing wood furniture directly against cold truck walls
• Allow furniture to acclimate gradually to your new home’s temperature

Preparing Your Home for Moving Day

A little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring a smooth winter move. Our crew brings carpet shield (plastic film) to protect carpeted areas and red runners to protect hardwood floors from snow and mud, but there are several things you should do before we arrive.

Pre-Move Checklist for Homeowners

1. Clear the driveway and walkways. Ensure there’s a wide, clear path free of ice and snow. This is critical for crew safety and efficiency—icy walkways slow everything down and create slip hazards.

2. Apply ice melt or sand. Put down ice melt the night before and again in the morning if needed. Focus on walkways, porch steps, and the path from your door to the truck.

3. Keep the heat on. Maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home, but consider turning it down slightly since doors will be opening and closing frequently. Designate one room with the door closed to stay warm for pets, kids, or anyone who needs a break.

4. Prepare a warm welcome. It’s a small touch, but having hot coffee, cocoa, or tea available is always appreciated on a freezing day. A warm crew is a happy, efficient crew.

5. Have towels ready. Keep some old towels by the door for wiping snow off shoes and boxes. This helps keep your floors dry and prevents tracking throughout the house.

Preparing Your Vehicle for the Move

If you’re driving your own car to your new home, make sure it’s ready for Colorado’s winter roads.

Winter Driving Checklist

• Check tire tread and pressure. Cold temperatures reduce tire pressure, and worn tread is dangerous on snowy roads.
• Fill up on washer fluid. Use windshield washer fluid rated for at least -20°F.
• Test your battery. Cold weather is hard on car batteries. If yours is more than 3 years old, consider having it tested.
• Pack an emergency kit. Include a blanket, water, snacks, flashlight, phone charger, and basic first aid supplies.
• Clear all snow and ice. Don’t just clear your windows—clear the hood, roof, and trunk lid to prevent snow from blowing onto your windshield or other drivers.

The iHaul iMove Winter Moving Promise

We don’t just “wing it” in the winter. Every member of our team is prepared for Colorado’s toughest weather conditions.

Our Winter-Ready Equipment

• Trucks equipped with chains for navigating steep driveways and icy roads
• Shovels and ice melt on every truck for clearing paths as needed
• Carpet shield and red runners — plastic film for carpeted areas, red runners for hardwood floors
• Extra moving blankets for insulating temperature-sensitive items

Our Winter-Ready Crew

Our movers wear appropriate cold-weather gear—insulated boots, warm layers, and gloves that allow for safe handling of your belongings. We take regular breaks to stay warm and alert, ensuring your move is handled with care from start to finish.

Ready to Plan Your Winter Move?

Don’t let Colorado’s winter weather intimidate you. With the right moving company by your side, a winter move can be faster, more affordable, and less stressful than a summer relocation.

Take advantage of our off-peak winter rates. Contact iHaul iMove today for a free, no-obligation estimate. We’ll walk you through the process, answer your questions about winter moving, and help you choose the perfect date for your relocation.

iHaul iMove has been helping Colorado Springs families move safely and affordably for over 17 years. Whether it’s the middle of January or the height of summer, we’re ready to make your move a success. Explore all our service areas or learn more about our residential moving services.