Moving is already a big undertaking, but add in rain, snow, or icy conditions, and the stress level can quickly double. Here on Vancouver Island, unpredictable weather is a way of life — especially in Nanaimo, Parksville, Port Alberni, Comox, and other coastal communities where wet winters and occasional snowstorms can complicate moving day.
At Take A Load Off Moving, we’ve spent years helping families and businesses move in every type of weather imaginable. From heavy rainfall in November to icy driveways in January, we’ve seen it all — and we’ve built this guide to help you prepare.
Why Weather Matters on Moving Day
Vancouver Island’s coastal climate means you can wake up to sunshine and end the day in a downpour. If you’re moving in winter, you might face icy roads, slippery sidewalks, or even ferry cancellations. These conditions can affect:
- Safety – Carrying heavy furniture on slick ground can be dangerous.
- Timing – Rain and snow slow down loading, travel, and unloading.
- Protection – Moisture can damage boxes, furniture, or electronics.
- Logistics – Ferries, driveways, and rural roads may become challenging to navigate.
Planning ahead ensures your belongings — and your family — stay safe and dry.
Preparing for Rain on Moving Day
1. Use Waterproof Packing Materials
- Seal boxes with extra packing tape to prevent them from softening in the rain.
- Wrap furniture in moving blankets followed by plastic shrink wrap for moisture protection.
- Store electronics and important documents in waterproof bins.
👉 Pro tip: We sell moving supplies at our Nanaimo warehouse (1907 Wilfert Road), including shrink wrap and heavy-duty boxes.
2. Protect Floors and Entryways
- Lay down plastic runners or tarps to prevent muddy footprints.
- Use old towels or mats at entrances for quick wipe-downs.
3. Create a Covered Loading Zone
- If possible, back the moving truck close to your garage or front door.
- Use pop-up tents or tarps to reduce exposure between doorways and truck.
4. Keep Towels Handy
- Have towels ready for quick drying of boxes or furniture surfaces.
- Wipe down wet items before loading into the truck.
Preparing for Snow and Ice
Snow isn’t as common in Nanaimo as on the mainland, but when it hits, it can cause chaos. Here’s how to prepare:
1. Clear Driveways and Walkways
- Shovel paths before movers arrive.
- Salt or sand driveways to prevent slipping.
- If you live in rural areas (like Lantzville, Cedar, or Cobble Hill), clear long access roads in advance.
2. Warm Up the House
- Keep heat on so movers have a safe environment to work in.
- Avoid condensation by keeping windows closed.
3. Protect Furniture from Cold Damage
- Some wood and glass items can crack when exposed to extreme cold. Wrap fragile pieces with padding before moving them outside.
4. Allow Extra Time
- Snowy conditions slow down everything. Build in extra time for travel and loading.
Vehicle and Travel Preparation
1. Moving Truck Readiness
- At Take A Load Off Moving, all our trucks undergo Commercial Vehicle Inspections and are equipped for winter travel.
- For DIY movers, check tire tread, wiper blades, and ensure antifreeze levels are adequate.
2. Ferry Delays
- Winter weather can lead to BC Ferries cancellations.
- Always have a backup plan or flexible timeline when moving to or from the mainland or smaller islands.
- Our BC Ferries account manager helps us navigate these challenges daily.
3. Rural Road Conditions
- Vancouver Island’s diverse terrain includes steep driveways, gravel roads, and tight corners.
- In icy conditions, professional drivers with commercial licenses are crucial for safety.
How Professional Movers Handle Bad Weather
Hiring professionals ensures your move stays on track, even when the skies don’t cooperate. Here’s how our crews prepare:
- Uniformed Movers – Equipped with gloves, rain gear, and proper footwear.
- Protective Equipment – Shrink wrap, moving blankets, floor runners, and tarps always on hand.
- Extra Care for Fragile Items – Electronics, antiques, and valuables are double-wrapped.
- Efficient Loading – Our crews work quickly to minimize exposure time to rain or snow.
- Insurance Coverage – With full cargo insurance, you have peace of mind that your belongings are protected.
Bonus Tips for Homeowners
- Label “Weather Sensitive” Boxes – Mark boxes containing electronics, photos, or documents.
- Plan Meals – Keep easy-to-eat snacks and hot drinks ready; cooking isn’t an option mid-move.
- Keep Children & Pets Safe – Slippery floors and heavy lifting zones aren’t safe for little ones or pets. Arrange for care if possible.
Local Expertise: Weather Challenges by Community
- Nanaimo & Parksville – Heavy rainfall and coastal winds make waterproofing essential.
- Port Alberni – Prone to snow and icy valley conditions.
- Victoria – Mild winters, but lots of rain. Protect floors and entrances.
- Comox & Campbell River – Higher chances of snow compared to Nanaimo.
- Tofino & Ucluelet – Coastal storms bring heavy rain and strong winds.
- Duncan & Ladysmith – Icy driveways and rural roads require sanding.
Why Take A Load Off Moving Is the Right Choice
- Award-Winning Service – Best of Nanaimo winner 8 years in a row.
- Five-Star Reviews – Trusted by families and businesses across Vancouver Island.
- Full-Service Solutions – From packing and moving to junk removal and storage.
- Nationwide Reach (GCVL) – We coordinate long-distance moves to Alberta and across Canada.
- More Rewards Points – Earn 500 bonus points when you leave us a review after your move.
FAQs
What happens if the weather is too severe to move?
We’ll always prioritize safety. If conditions are unsafe, we’ll reschedule as soon as possible.
Do movers work in the rain?
Yes — with the right equipment and protective measures, moves can continue even in heavy rain.
How do I keep my belongings safe from water damage?
Using shrink wrap, waterproof bins, and professional packing techniques ensures your belongings stay dry.
What about ferry cancellations in winter?
We work closely with BC Ferries to rebook as quickly as possible and plan alternate routes if needed.
Inbound & Outbound Links
- Estimate Form – Book your bad-weather move with confidence.
- Storage Solutions – Protect belongings if your timeline shifts due to weather.
- Outbound: BC Ferries Service Updates
Call to Action
Don’t let Vancouver Island’s unpredictable weather catch you off guard. Whether it’s pouring rain in Nanaimo or icy roads in Duncan, Take A Load Off Moving has the experience, equipment, and professionalism to keep your move safe and stress-free.
📞 Call us today at 250-616-7854
📧 Email us at info@takealoadoffmoving.com
📍 Visit us at 1907 Wilfert Road, Nanaimo, BC
Let’s plan your next move — rain, snow, or shine.
