How Weather Impacts Moving Day in Upstate NY (Snow, Rain, Humidity & More)

Moving in Upstate New York is unlike moving in most other regions. Rochester’s weather can shift from sunshine to lake-effect snow in a single afternoon, and each season brings its own challenges. Whether you’re moving locally or long-distance, understanding how weather affects the moving process will help you plan a safer, smoother move.

This guide covers how rain, snow, heat, humidity, and wind impact moving day — and how to prepare for each one.

Why Weather Matters for Moving in Rochester

Rochester’s climate affects:

• How fast movers can work

• Driveway and walkway conditions

• How safely items can be carried

• Loading and unloading times

• Gear and protective materials needed

• Risk of damage to furniture and boxes

A prepared crew can work through almost any condition, but knowing what to expect ensures fewer delays and a better moving experience.

1. Moving in Snow and Ice

Snow and ice are the biggest challenges for winter moves in Rochester and surrounding suburbs.

Common issues include:

• Slippery driveways

• Snow-covered walkways

• Ice on steps or porches

• Reduced visibility

• Longer carry distances due to snowbanks

• Frozen door frames or locks

How to prepare:

• Clear your driveway and walkways before movers arrive

• Salt all walking paths and steps

• Keep shovels ready in case snow accumulates during the move

• Protect floors with mats or runners

• Keep the home heated to prevent frozen belongings

How movers handle it:

Professional crews use:

• Rubber-backed floor runners

• Extra blankets

• Plastic wrap for upholstered items

• Boot covers

• Salt and shovels when needed

Winter moves take longer but can still be completed safely with proper preparation.

2. Moving in Rain

Rain is extremely common in Rochester during spring and fall.

Challenges include:

• Slippery outdoor surfaces

• Wet cardboard boxes

• Damp furniture or mattresses

• Mud tracked inside

• Longer loading times

How to prepare:

• Use plastic mattress bags

• Group boxes under covered areas

• Lay down towels or mats inside

• Wrap furniture tightly with blankets and shrink wrap

• Keep umbrellas or ponchos nearby for short walks

How movers handle rain:

• They create assembly-line loading to reduce exposure

• They wrap all furniture in blankets and plastic

• They protect entryways with mats

• They keep boxes covered until the last second

Rain doesn’t stop a move, but it requires extra protection.

3. Moving in Heat and Humidity

Summers in Upstate NY can be humid, especially in Rochester.

Heat and humidity can cause:

• Slower lifting due to heat exhaustion

• Moisture damage to wood furniture

• Sweaty surfaces that are harder to grip

• Increased risk for fragile items like instruments

• Warped cardboard boxes

How to prepare:

• Run your air conditioning

• Keep cold water available

• Let movers know which items are sensitive to heat

• Avoid stacking boxes near sunny windows

• Move electronics and candles in your own vehicle

How movers handle heat:

• They take more frequent water breaks

• They rotate heavy lifting tasks

• They use tools like dollies to reduce strain

Moves in heat may take slightly longer but are perfectly manageable.

4. Moving in High Winds

Wind is common near Lake Ontario and across open areas like Greece, Irondequoit, and Webster.

Wind issues include:

• Blown-open doors

• Loose packing materials

• Tipped boxes

• Flying debris during loading

• Difficulty carrying large or lightweight items

How to prepare:

• Secure doors with wedges

• Keep packing materials inside

• Close box lids tightly

• Avoid leaving belongings unattended outside

Movers will time their carries to reduce exposure and keep items stable.

5. Moving at Different Times of Year

Rochester’s weather shifts drastically between seasons. Here’s what to expect during each one:

Winter (December–March)

• Most unpredictable

• Snow, ice, freezing temperatures

• Longest job times

• Lowest moving prices

• Best availability

Spring (March–May)

• Wet and muddy

• Rain common

• Temperatures vary widely

• Great for early-season moves

Summer (June–August)

• Most popular moving season

• Heat and humidity slow things down

• Higher moving rates

• Best conditions for long-distance moves

Fall (September–November)

• Ideal moving weather

• Cool, stable temperatures

• Dry conditions

• High homeowner demand

6. Protecting Your Belongings in Any Weather

Regardless of conditions, you can protect your belongings with a little preparation.

Essential protection materials:

• Plastic mattress bags

• Shrink wrap

• Moving blankets

• Waterproof bins

• Extra towels

• Floor runners

• Tarp or canopy for temporary cover

Movers also carry equipment to safely load in any condition.

7. Communication Is Key

Before moving day, discuss the forecast with your moving company.

Tell them about:

• Steep driveways

• Shaded or icy areas

• Drainage issues

• Parking limitations

• Items sensitive to heat or cold

The more they know, the smoother the move.

Weather Doesn’t Have to Slow Down Your Move

Roc City Movers handles moves in all weather conditions across Rochester and Monroe County. From lake-effect snow to humid summer days, our crews are trained and equipped to keep your belongings safe.

We provide:

• Full-service and labor-only moving

• Professional packing

• Weatherproof supplies

• Clean trucks and equipment

• Transparent pricing

• Efficient workflows tailored to your home layout

Contact us today or use our pricing estimator to schedule your move.