Calgary has a unique climate that creates specific challenges for the safe transportation of goods. The city is known for its extreme temperature fluctuations, including extremely cold winters, when temperatures can drop to -40°C with wind chill, and hot summer months. These climatic conditions require special attention to packing methods to ensure that your belongings are protected during the move.

Winter packing

Winter packing in Calgary requires consideration of the effects of low temperatures on various materials. Cold weather can cause:

• deformation or cracking of wood, including furniture and musical instruments;
• battery discharge;
• freezing of liquids;
• damage to fragile items (porcelain, glass);
• spoilage of cosmetics.

Moisture can lead to:

• tape peeling and tearing;
• destruction of electronics;
• mold and mildew growth;
• damage to paper products and clothing.

Summer packing

High temperatures can affect heat-sensitive items and materials. We recommend:

• starting the move early in the morning when it is cooler;
• finishing heavy work before noon;
• avoiding transporting sensitive items in hot vehicles.

Professional packing materials

Basic protective materials

Use:

• sturdy boxes;
• bubble wrap;
• high-quality packing tape.

Label each box according to its contents and the room it is destined for.

For fragile and valuable items — special techniques or professional services. For example, Rocky Mountain Movers offers special boxes for dishes, mirrors, and other delicate items.

Example: One family used dish boxes for their glass collection, and not a single item was damaged.

Waterproof and insulating materials

In winter, it is worth investing in:

• plastic containers;
• waterproof packaging materials;
• thermal blankets for temperature-sensitive items.

Eco-friendly option — Frogbox: reusable plastic boxes for rent with delivery and pickup. Cost: $5.40 CAD/box for the first week, $1.25 CAD for each additional week.

Packing techniques

Fragile items and glassware

• Plan your packing in advance.
• Use packing paper instead of newspaper.
• Wrap each item separately.
• For mirrors and large glass items, use towels or blankets.

Electronics and technology

• Do not leave electronics in the cold.
• Store in a climate-controlled environment.
• Wrap in blankets/towels for insulation.
• Medications, laptops, and valuables should be kept in your carry-on luggage.

Furniture and large items

• Use moving blankets.
• Protect wooden surfaces from temperature fluctuations.

All Day Movers in Calgary specializes in moving antiques and art: custom crating, temperature control, and safe handling of fragile items.

Seasonal packing strategies

Winter packing

Moving in Calgary during the winter requires special preparation due to unpredictable weather conditions. Cold weather, icy driveways, or road closures can all affect the process. The best strategy is to hire professional movers who have all the necessary equipment, materials, and experience.

For fragile items, artwork, glass, or other easily breakable items, it is especially important to ensure professional packing in winter. Experienced movers who have completed numerous jobs can help you figure everything out when needed, so you can relax and focus more on the process and your tasks.

Ferguson Moving recommends special measures for winter packing. Fragile items such as glassware and electronics benefit from insulation, so wrapping them in bubble wrap or blankets is a smart solution. Keep essential items such as gloves, warm clothing, and toiletries accessible by packing them separately. This ensures that you are prepared for the cold even on moving day.

Summer packing

Summer moves in Calgary have their advantages and challenges. While longer daylight hours and generally better weather conditions make it an ideal time to move, temperature fluctuations can create problems. Summer is peak moving season, which means that reputable moving companies book up quickly.

Staying hydrated and cool is critical. Keep plenty of water bottles on hand for yourself and the movers. Plan regular breaks in shaded areas or air-conditioned spaces to cool down and recharge before continuing.

Prepare a bag with essential items that you will need immediate access to: water bottles, snacks, medications, phone chargers, toiletries, and a change of clothes. Having these essentials on hand means you won't have to dig through boxes in the heat.

Professional packing services in Calgary

When to call in the professionals

Calgary Pro Movers offers professionally trained staff who are not only experts in local moving services in Calgary, but also have extensive training in packing. This ensures that your belongings are safe and secure throughout your move. The company can provide a free estimate for this service if you require it, ensuring that they can work within your budget.

Best Movers Calgary offers comprehensive services from packing and storing your belongings to efficiently loading and unloading them. Their team of moving professionals has years of experience in moving and is trained to handle fragile items with care. By understanding the exact needs of the customer, they develop a highly efficient moving strategy.

Specific items that are recommended to be entrusted to professionals:

• Flat-screen TVs and computer monitors
• Lamps and special lighting
• Electronics and hard drives
• Mirrors
• Artwork and sculptures
• Glass or marble items

Advantages of professional services

Professional packing companies use industrial methods and high-quality packing materials to pack your belongings quickly and safely. Their comprehensive customer support network is dedicated to providing you with prompt assistance, resolving any issues before, during, and after your move.

Rocky Mountain Movers offers customized solutions whether it's a residential, commercial, or senior move. They tailor their approach to your needs. The company also provides a full-service moving experience where you don't have to lift a finger.

Labeling and organization

Effective labeling system

Effective labeling goes beyond simply listing the contents of a box. In winter, adding labels such as “Keep Dry” for moisture-sensitive items or “Fragile” for delicate items that could be compromised by rapid temperature changes is critical. These labels alert movers to give these boxes extra care, ensuring they are handled properly and kept in optimal conditions.

Packing strategically can make the process more manageable. Start with items you don't use often, such as seasonal clothing or decorative pieces. Label each box with its contents and intended room to ensure easy unpacking. Remember that fragile items require special care.

Organize by room and priority

Calgary Movers Pro recommends an organized approach to packing. Start by planning ahead with precision, creating a detailed checklist that outlines tasks such as notifying utility companies, updating your address, and scheduling your move with reliable Calgary movers.

Pack a bag with essentials for your first night in your new home. This includes toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and any medications. Having these items on hand can ease the stress of the initial phase of settling into Calgary.

Tips for saving space and efficiency

Maximizing space in boxes

When packing, maximizing space efficiency can help you reduce the number of boxes and the overall volume of your move. Use packing techniques to optimize the use of available space in boxes and containers.

Wardrobe boxes are especially useful for those who need to move clothing without compromising its condition. These boxes come with built-in hanging rails, ensuring that your professional attire arrives wrinkle-free and ready to wear.

Using household items

PackWell recommends using household items as additional packing materials. In Calgary, where the weather can be unpredictable, it is critical to use materials that provide protection from moisture and temperature changes. Bubble wrap and packing paper are essential for protecting delicate items.

Towels and blankets can serve as excellent protective materials for large or particularly valuable items. Not only do they provide cushioning, but they also help save space since you would need to transport these items anyway.

Where to buy packing supplies in Calgary

Major suppliers

U-Haul has several locations throughout Calgary where you can purchase moving supplies. They offer a full line of moving supplies for DIY movers, including boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and any other type of packing supplies. U-Haul offers free delivery in Calgary on all orders over $150, or you can choose to pick up your order at the store for same-day service.

Northwest Storage offers a full line of moving supplies in Calgary, from small boxes to wardrobe boxes, packing tape, and mattress bags. They recommend talking to their staff about the recommended amount of packing supplies based on the size of your home.

Specialized Services

Frogbox offers a unique eco-friendly alternative to traditional packing. Their reusable plastic boxes are delivered to your home for free, and when you're done moving, they come and pick up the boxes. This reduces waste compared to a traditional move and eliminates the need to build and tape cardboard boxes.

Special considerations for Calgary

Weather factors

Calgary is known for its Chinooks — warm winds that can quickly change the temperature in winter. These sudden temperature changes can be particularly damaging to your belongings, as constant expansion and contraction can cause cracks in fragile items.

In the summer, Calgary can experience heavy rain and thunderstorms. The city faces two types of summer heavy rain: large-scale weather systems with prolonged precipitation that can last several days, and short-lived thunderstorms with significant precipitation. Environment Canada issues rain warnings for these types of events.

Local rules and restrictions

In downtown Calgary, moving may require permits for loading and unloading. Suburban areas may have more space but stricter community rules. Understanding these factors can help you plan effectively.

Traffic in Calgary can be challenging, especially during rush hour. Major roads such as Deerfoot Trail often become congested, and construction projects can cause additional delays. Planning ahead and using traffic tracking apps to check for accidents and road closures can help make your move go more smoothly.

Packing successfully for a safe move in Calgary requires careful planning, the right materials, and an understanding of the city's unique climate challenges. Whether you choose to pack yourself or hire professional services, it is essential to prepare for extreme temperatures, use high-quality materials, and label all of your items properly. With the right approach, you can ensure that your belongings arrive at your new home in the same condition they left your old one.