Los Angeles averages only 35 rainy days per year, but when it rains during your move, the city seems unprepared for water. Streets flood, drivers panic, and suddenly your straightforward relocation becomes complicated. At SOS Moving, we don't cancel for rain—we've developed systems for safe, efficient moving regardless of weather. This guide covers everything about rainy day moves, from protecting your belongings to navigating LA's rain-specific challenges.
Why Rain Complicates LA Moves More Than Other Cities
Los Angeles treats rain like snow in other cities—with surprise and poor preparation. Roads lack proper drainage, turning streets into rivers within hours. Oil buildup on roads creates extremely slick conditions after first rain. Drivers unaccustomed to wet conditions cause accidents everywhere. Buildings designed for drought lack covered loading areas. Storm drains clog with year's worth of debris instantly.
The 405 freeway becomes parking lot with doubled accident rates. Laurel Canyon and other canyon roads risk mudslides. Beach areas like Venice and Marina del Rey flood with poor drainage. Even typically easy areas like Glendale struggle with puddle-filled streets.
Real Costs and Considerations for Rain Moves
SOS Moving rain policy:We don't charge weather premiums—same rates rain or shine. However, moves take 20-30% longer in rain for safety. A 5-hour sunny day move becomes 6-7 hours in rain. At $119-145/hour for 2 movers, that's $119-290 extra from time, not fees.
What's actually included for rain protection:
- Plastic wrap for all upholstered furniture (always included)
- Moving blankets that we dry between uses
- Wardrobe boxes protecting hanging clothes
- Professional techniques minimizing water exposure
- Experienced crews who know rain procedures
Additional materials you might want:
- Extra plastic sheeting: $20-30
- Waterproof mattress bags: $15-25 each
- Electronics protection bags: $10-20
- Floor protection at both locations: $30-50
Protecting Your Belongings During Rain Moves
Electronics require special attention:Pack electronics in original boxes if available. Double-bag in plastic before boxing. Use silica gel packets to absorb moisture. Transport in personal vehicle if possible. Let electronics acclimate 24 hours before plugging in.
Furniture protection strategies:All upholstery gets plastic wrapped completely at SOS Moving. Wood furniture needs blanket then plastic layer. Leather requires breathing space—plastic not directly touching. Antiques may need climate-controlled transport. Consider white glove service for valuable pieces.
Boxes and rain don't mix:Cardboard loses 50% strength when wet. Bottom can fail completely carrying heavy items. We recommend plastic bins for rain moves. If using cardboard, double-tape all seams. Never let boxes sit in puddles.
Documents and photos:Pack in waterproof bags inside boxes. Consider carrying personally in waterproof portfolio. Scan important documents before moving day. Cloud backup provides ultimate protection. Storage services keep sensitive items safe.
Safety Protocols for Rainy Moves
Slip and fall prevention:Our crews use non-slip boots required for rain days. Floor runners prevent indoor water tracking. Extra time taken for careful movement. Ramps avoided when wet—manual carrying safer. Two-person carries for stability in rain.
Vehicle safety measures:Moving trucks need double following distance. Speed reduced 25% below normal. Extra securing for load shifting. Parking brake essential on wet slopes. Hazard lights during loading/unloading.
Building protection requirements:Most buildings require floor protection during rain. Elevator protection mandatory to prevent damage. Some buildings prohibit rainy day moves entirely. Check with management before scheduling. Beverly Hills buildings especially strict.
Neighborhood-Specific Rain Challenges
Canyon areas (Laurel Canyon, Coldwater Canyon):Mudslide risks close roads without warning. Narrow roads become more dangerous wet. No street parking during rain emergencies. May need to postpone for safety.
Beach communities (Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach):Coastal flooding affects PCH regularly. Underground garages may flood. Salt air plus rain corrodes everything. Beach sand tracks everywhere when wet.
Valley areas (Sherman Oaks, Northridge):Better drainage than other areas generally. Wide streets easier for truck maneuvering. Covered apartment entrances more common. Still experience typical LA rain chaos.
Downtown (DTLA, Arts District):High-rises have covered loading docks—huge advantage. Professional freight elevators unaffected by weather. Parking enforcement continues despite rain. Homeless encampments create additional challenges.
Timing Strategies for Rainy Season Moves
LA's "rainy season" patterns:December-March sees 75% of annual rainfall. February typically wettest month. First rain after summer most dangerous (oil buildup). Afternoon thunderstorms rare but intense. Morning drizzle often clears by noon.
Best practices for scheduling:Book flexible dates when possible during season. Morning moves beat afternoon storms usually. Sunday rain moves have least traffic. Avoid first rain of season if possible. Monitor 10-day forecast before confirming.
Cancellation and rescheduling policies:SOS Moving allows weather rescheduling without penalty. 24-hour notice preferred but not required. Safety takes priority over schedules. We'll work to accommodate new dates. Consider storage solutions if timing critical.
What to Expect on Rainy Moving Day
The realistic timeline:Add 2-3 hours to estimated move time. Loading/unloading takes significantly longer. Drive time increases 30-50% in rain. Crew needs breaks to dry equipment. Patience essential for safe execution.
Communication adjustments:Crews provide more frequent updates. Traffic delays communicated immediately. Any damage risks discussed before proceeding. Alternative routes planned if flooding occurs. Constant reassessment of safety conditions.
Modified procedures:Assembly line style minimizes exposure time. One person stays in truck organizing. Quick transfer from door to truck. Furniture assembled inside when possible. Strategic loading for protection.
Rain Move Success Stories
Despite challenges, rain moves can succeed smoothly. Recent SOS Moving examples:
Pasadena to Culver City in February storm:Started 6 AM before heavy rain. Completed loading during light drizzle. Waited out heaviest rain in parking lot. Delivered safely with zero water damage.
Hollywood high-rise during thunderstorm:Covered loading dock eliminated exposure. Professional freight elevator protected items. Only challenge was street flooding at pickup. Extra hour but completely dry move.
DIY vs Professional for Rain Moves
Why rain moves need professionals:Proper equipment including waterproof materials. Experience navigating wet conditions safely. Insurance covers weather-related damages. Multiple crew members share difficulty. Commercial trucks handle rain better.
DIY rain move risks:Rental trucks lack traction control. No insurance for water damage. Friends may cancel in bad weather. Injury risk increases dramatically. Multiple trips extend exposure time.
Making Your Rain Move Decision
Rain doesn't have to ruin your moving plans, but it requires adjustment and preparation. Professional movers like SOS Moving have systems minimizing weather impact, though time and patience are still needed. The $119-290 typical additional cost from extended time beats water damage or injury risks.
If you have flexibility, waiting for clear weather is obviously easier. But LA's housing market, leases, and life don't always accommodate weather delays. When rain is unavoidable, preparation and professional help make the difference between disaster and minor inconvenience.
Concerned about rain for your upcoming move? Contact SOS Moving at 909-443-0004 to discuss weather contingencies. We'll honestly assess conditions and provide options—whether that's proceeding with protection protocols or rescheduling for safety. Our experienced crews have handled everything from drizzles to downpours across Los Angeles County. Let our expertise keep your belongings dry and your move on track, whatever the weather brings.
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