Rochester Winter Moving Guide

Winter Moving Advantages: The Hidden Benefits

Winter (December through February) is Rochester's off-season for moving, creating several distinct advantages that savvy movers can leverage:

Lower Costs

Winter moves typically cost 20-30% less than summer moves, representing significant savings. A move that might cost $1,000 in July could be as low as $700-800 in January or February. This pricing advantage extends to both labor and truck rental costs.

Better Availability

While summer weekend dates often book 8-10 weeks in advance, winter moves can usually be scheduled with just 2-3 weeks' notice. This flexibility is invaluable for those with tight timelines or changing circumstances.

Preferred Scheduling

During winter, you're much more likely to secure your ideal moving date and time. While summer movers often have to take what they can get, winter movers can typically choose from multiple options that fit their schedule perfectly.

Planning for Winter Weather: Rochester Realities

Rochester averages 99.5 inches of snowfall annually, making it one of the snowiest cities in the United States. Understanding local winter patterns is crucial for a successful move.

Typical Winter Conditions

Rochester winters vary considerably, but generally feature:

• Temperature: December-February averages range from 18°F to 32°F, with occasional drops below 0°F
• Snowfall: December (25"), January (28"), and February (25") are the snowiest months
• Lake Effect: Rochester's proximity to Lake Ontario creates unpredictable snow bands that can rapidly change conditions
• Road Conditions: Major roads are typically plowed first, while side streets may take longer to clear

Flexible Scheduling Is Key

Given Rochester's unpredictable winter weather, flexibility is essential. We recommend:

• Building a 1-2 day buffer before and after your planned moving date
• Choosing a moving company that offers weather-related rescheduling without penalties
• Monitoring forecasts starting a week before your move
• Having a backup plan for temporary accommodations if needed

Winter Moving Preparation: Before the Big Day

One Week Before

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful winter move in Rochester:

• Monitor Weather Forecasts: Begin checking 7-day forecasts a week before your move
• Prepare Snow Removal Tools: Ensure you have shovels, salt, and sand ready for both your current and new locations
• Check Utilities: Confirm that heat and electricity are working at your new home before moving day
• Gather Winter Supplies: Purchase plastic floor coverings, moving blankets, and tarps
• Prepare Vehicle: If using your own vehicles, ensure they have proper winter tires and emergency kits

Protect Your Belongings

Winter conditions require special protection for certain items:

• Electronics: Keep electronics warm until moving time, then wrap in moving blankets and plastic to protect from moisture
• Wood Furniture: Extreme temperature changes can damage wood - wrap thoroughly with moving blankets
• Plants: Most houseplants cannot survive even brief exposure to Rochester winter temperatures - transport in a heated vehicle
• Musical Instruments: Instruments are extremely sensitive to temperature and humidity changes - consider professional transport
• Liquids: Any liquid items (cleaning supplies, beverages) may freeze and burst - keep these with you in heated transport

Moving Day Success: Managing Snow and Ice

Clearing Pathways

Safe, clear pathways are essential for both safety and efficiency during a winter move:

• Clear a path at least 4 feet wide from the door to where the moving truck will park
• Remove snow completely rather than just packing it down
• Apply salt or sand to address ice and prevent new ice formation
• Consider laying down plywood over snowy areas for moving heavy items
• Clear any roof overhangs where snow or ice might fall on the pathway

Keep Everyone Safe and Warm

Winter moving requires attention to personal comfort and safety:

• Dress in warm, waterproof layers that can be adjusted as physical activity increases
• Use waterproof gloves that still allow for good grip
• Keep warm beverages available (coffee, tea, hot chocolate)
• Take more frequent breaks to warm up
• Have a designated "warming station" at both locations
• Keep extra socks available in case feet get wet

Protect Your Floors

Winter moves can wreak havoc on flooring in both your old and new homes:

• Use plastic floor coverings or tarps in high-traffic areas
• Place absorbent mats at all entrances
• Consider "booties" that can be slipped over shoes
• Have old towels ready to quickly address water or slush
• Designate a "shoes off" policy once initial pathways are protected

Rochester-Specific Winter Moving Tips

Neighborhood Snow Removal Variations

Rochester neighborhoods vary significantly in how quickly they receive snow removal services:

• Priority Plowing Areas: Browncroft, East Avenue, and parts of Brighton receive quicker city plowing
• Challenging Areas: South Wedge, parts of the 19th Ward, and NOTA can experience delayed plowing after heavy snowfall
• Alternate Side Parking: Many Rochester neighborhoods have winter parking regulations that affect truck placement

Check the City of Rochester's snow plow tracker app to monitor real-time plowing operations before your move.

Winter Driving Considerations

Rochester's winter road conditions require careful planning:

• Allow 25-50% extra travel time between locations
• Hills in neighborhoods like Upper Monroe and Cobbs Hill can be treacherous
• Keep in mind that bridge surfaces freeze before road surfaces
• Major routes like 390, 490, and 590 receive priority plowing but still vary in conditions
• Consider planning alternate routes in case of road closures

Winter Timing Strategy

The ideal time for a winter move in Rochester is typically between 9am and 3pm:

• Roads are usually freshly plowed from overnight snowfall
• Temperatures are at their daily peak
• Natural lighting is best (important since winter days are shorter)
• Gives buffer before potential overnight dropping temperatures

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if there's a major snowstorm forecast for my moving day?

Most reputable Rochester moving companies, including Move It Along, offer weather-related rescheduling at no additional cost during winter months. We typically monitor forecasts 48-72 hours ahead and will proactively contact you if severe weather is expected. This is why having flexibility built into your moving plan is so important during Rochester winters.

How much should I budget for winter weather supplies for my move?

Plan to spend $50-100 on winter moving supplies including salt/ice melt (approximately $20), plastic floor coverings ($15-30), extra moving blankets if needed ($25-50), and perhaps hand/foot warmers ($10). This small investment protects both your belongings and your property during winter conditions.

Are there any items that shouldn't be moved during extreme cold?

Yes, several items require special care or alternative transport during Rochester winters:

• Plants (may suffer cold damage even in brief exposure)
• Fine art and musical instruments (temperature fluctuation can cause damage)
• Electronics (condensation can form when going from cold to warm environments)
• Wine collections (freezing can cause bottles to burst)
• Aerosol cans (pressure changes in extreme cold)

How does snow affect moving costs in Rochester?

Despite potential weather challenges, winter moves remain 20-30% less expensive than summer moves in Rochester. While some companies charge "winter weather fees" for severe conditions, Move It Along builds reasonable winter preparation into our standard pricing, only applying surcharges in extreme circumstances (and always with advance notice).