How to Move in the Rain Without Ruining Your Stuff
Rochester weather can be unpredictable, and sometimes your moving day gets soaked whether you like it or not. While rain might seem like a dealbreaker, you can still have a successful (and dry) move if you prep properly.
Here’s how to protect your furniture, boxes, and sanity when moving in the rain.
1. Wrap Furniture in Plastic or Shrink Wrap
Water is the enemy of wood, upholstery, and electronics. The best defense is:
Stretch wrap (plastic wrap): Ideal for couches, dressers, and tables.
Plastic mattress covers: A must for beds.
Trash bags: Cut holes for oddly shaped items or quick covers.
If you don’t have plastic wrap, use tarps or thick blankets—but keep in mind blankets will absorb water, so they’ll need to dry out after.
2. Use Plastic Bins for Sensitive Items
Cardboard and water don’t mix. If it’s actively raining, pack high-risk items in:
Plastic totes with lids
Large contractor bags (as inner liners in boxes)
Waterproof duffel bags
Pro tip: Electronics, photo albums, books, and important documents should always be in sealed containers or waterproof sleeves.
3. Keep a “Dry Zone” for Loading and Unloading
Try to set up a staging area under cover:
Open garage or carport? Perfect.
Pop-up tent or canopy? Even better.
Apartment building with an overhang or awning? Use it to your advantage.
If there’s no cover, have someone stand at the truck or door with towels and wipe things off as they come in.
4. Lay Down Floor Protection
Don’t forget the floors! Wet shoes can quickly destroy your new carpet or scratch hardwood:
Lay out old towels, tarps, or plastic sheeting.
Have doormats at both homes for wiping feet.
Keep mop and paper towels on hand to quickly fix messes.
5. Watch Your Step (and Your Back)
Rain = slippery. Be extra careful on:
Wood steps
Metal ramps
Sloped driveways
Wear boots or shoes with good grip, and take smaller, slower steps when carrying items. Avoid rushing—it’s not worth a broken leg or smashed TV.
6. Load Strategically
Load non-essentials first: That way, your important stuff has more time under shelter while you load up.
Use moving blankets and ratchet straps to keep furniture from sliding around (especially in wet conditions).
Stack lightest boxes last, especially if they contain anything moisture-sensitive.
7. Keep Extras On Hand
You’ll thank yourself for having:
Extra towels or rags
Ponchos or rain jackets
Ziplock bags for electronics or small items
Gloves with grip (not cotton—they get slippery when soaked)
Final Thoughts
Rain doesn’t have to ruin your move—especially with a little planning and the right gear. At Roc City Movers, we’ve handled dozens of rainy-day moves across Rochester, and we know how to keep your belongings dry, safe, and protected.
Need help braving the elements on your next move? Get a free quote →
