What To Do When There's Rain on Moving Day

1. Cover and Protect Your Belongings

Water and cardboard don’t mix. To keep your items safe from the rain:

• Use plastic wrap or bags over boxes, especially for clothing and fabric items. Large trash bags work in a pinch.
• Plastic bins with secure lids are great for electronics, books or anything especially sensitive to moisture.
• Have towels or blankets handy to wipe down wet surfaces or dry your hands during the move.
• Use tarps or moving blankets to cover furniture while loading and unloading. We sell waterproof covers for mattresses — worth it on a rainy day.

2. Load Strategically

Keep the inside of the truck as dry as possible by:

• Backing up close to your home or building, if it’s safe to do so. This shortens the distance items travel in the rain.
• Using an assembly line approach with one person inside, one at the door and one by the truck to minimize water tracked in and out.

3. Drive Carefully in the Rain

Penske trucks are designed for safety, but wet roads always require extra caution.

• Slow down. Wet roads reduce traction, especially when braking.
• Leave extra space between you and the vehicle ahead of you.
• Use headlights to stay visible to others.
• Avoid sudden moves. Take turns slowly and brake gently.
• If the rain gets heavy, pull over safely until visibility improves.

4. Protect Your Floors

Rainy-day moves can get messy fast.

• Lay down plastic sheeting, cardboard or old rugs in your entryway and along main walkways to catch some of the rain.
• Keep a towel by the door to dry off wet boxes and other items as they come in.
• Have someone stationed inside to remove wet packing materials and direct traffic to help avoid puddles indoors.

5. Pack an Emergency Rain Kit

Before moving day, set aside a few essentials you’ll be glad to have:

• Extra towels and tarps
• Umbrellas and ponchos
• Sealable plastic bags for phones and small electronics
• Dry clothes and socks (for after you finish!)
• Waterproof boots or shoes with good grip

Bonus Tip: Check the Forecast Early and Often

Weather can change quickly. If you’re renting a truck, you can modify your reservation online or through the Penske Truck Rental app if the weather is severe and you need to reschedule.

Rain doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker. With a few simple strategies and a little flexibility, you can stay dry, drive safely and keep your move on track no matter the forecast.