Moving in the Rain in NYC: Tips for a Smooth Wet-Weather Move

Rain Happens — Don't Panic

Half of NYC moves between May and September happen in the rain at some point. A wet move is totally doable; an unprepared wet move is a disaster. Here's the difference.

Wrap Soft Items in Plastic

Mattresses, sofas, and box springs act like sponges. Buy a pack of plastic furniture covers and wrap every soft item before it leaves the apartment. A wet mattress is a ruined mattress.

Use Wardrobe Boxes for Hanging Clothes

Hanging clothes stay dry and wrinkle-free in a tall wardrobe box. Don't count on trash bags — they tear and leave clothes damp.

Cardboard Boxes Won't Survive Wet Ground

A box set on a wet sidewalk soaks through the bottom and the box falls apart. Double-tape the bottom of every box and, if rain is heavy, slip each box into a contractor bag before carrying.

Lay Down a Runner

Put a cardboard runner or moving blanket from the door to the truck. It keeps the floor dry (your landlord cares) and gives movers sure footing on wet tile.

Elevator and Lobby Get Wet Fast

Have a towel at the apartment door to wipe feet and a mop waiting at the new place. Most building damage in a rain move is to the lobby floor — not the furniture.

Take Photos Before and After

Wet moves generate more damage claims. Photograph the apartment before the crew arrives and after they leave so any pre-existing water marks aren't blamed on the move.

Book NYC moving labor, rain or shine — we come prepared.