Can Movers Work in the Rain? What’s Best for You

Weather concerns are added stress during an already hectic relocation. 14% of Americans migrated in the previous year, down to 13%. If it starts to rain on a moving day, what should you do? Discover the answer here!

What do movers do if it rains?

Moving in the rain is difficult but possible. During my own cross-country move last year, we encountered a sudden downpour that tested our preparedness. I can vividly recall that my hired movers took all the measures they need to protect my boxes. So, in my experience, professional movers are prepared for rainy weather.

These are what movers do in the rain:

Waterproof Your Items

Plastic wraps, tarps, blankets, and other waterproof materials can be used. Movers will also seal box and container gaps. 

Movers will store your items in plastic containers, bags, or crates whenever possible. These are water-resistant and mold-resistant.

Prevent Slips and Falls

Movers wear shoes, gloves, and outerwear to avoid slipping on damp surfaces. They’ll dry your home and truck’s floors and steps with mats, rugs, or towels. 

They will also avoid dragging or dropping goods that could damage your floors or walls.

Assembly-line Work

Movers will limit rain exposure to your goods. Teams will load, drive, and unload the truck. This reduces back-and-forth and speeds up the process.

Breaks Keep You Dry and Toasty

In the rain, movers can get tired, dehydrated, and hypothermic. They’ll stop to change, drink, eat, and warm up.

Moving in the rain isn’t ideal, but it’s possible. Before scheduling your move, verify the weather forecast. Rain on moving day might delay, damage, or cost more. If you must move in the rain, don’t worry.

What to Expect from Your Movers in Rainy Weather

Possible Delays

Long-distance or interstate driving might be more challenging in the rain.

Your movers may come late or take longer to load and unload. Be flexible with your timetable and check in with your moving company for updates.

Time and Effort Required 

Rain can also slow down moving. Your movers must use plastic or waterproof covers to protect your belongings from water damage. 

To avoid slipping or dropping, they may need dollies or ramps. This could delay your move and cost you more.

Potential Additional Fees

Your moving contract may charge extra for moving in severe weather. Some moving companies charge a rain fee or weather premium to offset rainy moves’ extra costs and risks. 

Others may charge for plastic wrap or tarps to safeguard your items. Before signing, read your contract and ask your movers about additional prices.

Tips for Moving in the Rain

Long-distance moves might cost $10,000 or more, starting at $400. So it’s wise to move with proper planning.

Use Waterproof Boxes and Covers

Rain-damaged items are the last thing you want. Waterproof boxes and lids prevent this. 

Online or at your local hardware shop. Before boxing, you might wrap objects in plastic bags or rubbish bags.

One memorable move involved helping a friend relocate during a torrential rainstorm. Despite our best efforts, some of their items got wet, highlighting the importance of waterproof protection.

Prepare Towels

Despite watertight boxes and covers; water may sneak into your moving vehicle or new home. 

Wipe excess water with towels to avoid slipping or stains. They can also dry you and your movers.

Avoid Floods

Flooding might complicate and endanger your move. Avoid this by planning your journey and checking the weather and traffic. 

Avoid flood-prone or poorly-drained roadways. If feasible, take a higher-elevation, less-trafficked path.

Expect Delays

Moving in the rain takes longer because you and your movers must be more careful. 

Move with additional time to avoid tension and frustration. Don’t hurry yourself or your movers. Expect delays and be flexible.

Tip Your Movers Extra

Your movers will labor harder and confront more obstacles when moving in the rain. 

Thank them by tipping more. They’ll be happy and motivated to work hard for you.

Avoid Elevator-less Top-floor Flats

Reconsider while relocating to or from a top-floor flat without an elevator.

Carrying big boxes and furniture up or downstairs in the rain is dangerous. You could hurt yourself, break things, or damage the stairs or walls.

Considerations Before Hiring Rainy Day Movers

Moving is hard enough without weather concerns. Sometimes it’s unavoidable. 

You may have a deadline or don’t want to reschedule your relocation. Maybe you like hearing rainfall outside your window. Rain on a moving day can be a headache for you instantly.

If it rains, can you hire movers?

You can! Most professional movers are prepared for rain.

Waterproof covers, tarps, and plastic wrap protect furniture and boxes. 

Mats, carpets, and booties prevent slips and mud from entering your home. Even in the rain, they can safely load and unload your belongings.

Before hiring rainy-day movers, consider these factors:

Types of Belongings

Some goods are moisture-sensitive. Humidity can damage wood, leather, paper, electronics, and musical instruments. 

If you have any of these items, postpone your relocation until the weather improves or pack them properly.

Property Quantity

Moving more stuff takes longer. The longer they are exposed to rain, the greater the chance of damage.

Donating, selling, or discarding unwanted items may help you downsize. On a wet day, move only the necessities.

Distance Traveled

The truck will hold your goods longer the farther you move. More time on the truck means more risk of getting wet or moldy.

If you are going long-distance, examine the weather forecast for both your origin and destination and pick a day with the least likelihood of rain.

Weather Forecast

Before hiring movers, check the weather. What movers do in the rain is work incorrectly.

It may only rain for a few hours or be a drizzle. The anxiety of seeing your possessions exposed to rain is a feeling I won’t forget. It’s essential to stay calm and adaptable when rain unexpectedly strikes. If so, you can change your moving timetable to avoid bad weather.

As shown, hiring movers on a wet day is achievable with enough organization. Find a trustworthy moving company that can handle any weather with care.

Questions to Ask Your Mover About Rain Policies

First, most professional movers can handle rain and other bad weather. They can safeguard your belongings and themselves from water damage. 

A reasonable moving company deposit is anywhere between $200 and $500. So don’t forget to ask if your movers have distinct rain-working policies.

That’s why you should ask your mover questions before booking them, primarily if you reside in a region with frequent or unpredictable weather.

Ask your mover these rain policy questions:

Before hiring a mover, ask if movers work in the rain. Doing so will prevent any shocks or misunderstandings on moving days and ensure a stress-free relocation in any weather. 

People Also Asked

You now understand the perks and cons of moving in the rain. Now you may choose wisely. Be prepared, flexible, and safe whether you postpone or move. 

Moving in the rain is challenging but gratifying. You may save money, reduce traffic, and enjoy a warm new home. Weather shouldn’t damper your enthusiasm. You can! Know if renters are responsible for moving damages.