If you are planning a move in Brisbane between spring and autumn then the weather deserves a spot on your checklist. Afternoon storms can roll in fast and a dry driveway can turn slippery in minutes. We know how fast a Brisbane afternoon can turn. A bit of planning keeps your belongings dry and your move on track.
In this guide we cover when storm season hits and how to plan your timing and what to pack and protect. We also cover what to do if the forecast turns ugly.
When is storm season in Brisbane?
The Daily Bulletin describes storm season as starting in late spring and running through summer. Queensland SES notes that severe storms are the most common severe weather event in the state and can strike at any time of year.
Rainfall tells a similar story. R2G's Brisbane moving guide quotes Bureau of Meteorology averages for the Brisbane station:
| Month | Average rainfall |
|---|---|
| February (wettest) | 176.1 mm |
| March | 149.2 mm |
| January | 140.0 mm |
| December | 137.9 mm |
| September (driest) | 28.6 mm |
The same guide recommends the drier months from May to September when you have a choice. Summer storms usually build in the afternoon. That is why we suggest an early start.
Step 1: Pick your day and start early
- Start at 7am or 8am. You finish in daylight and ahead of the usual afternoon storms.
- Go midweek if you can. R2G suggests Tuesday to Thursday and says a midweek summer move is far easier than a Saturday one.
- Pick a backup date. Know in advance what you will do if a severe weather warning lands.
Step 2: Check the forecast and warnings
Check the Bureau of Meteorology forecast daily in the week before your move and again the night before. Pay attention to warnings and not just the chance of rain. Queensland's alerts page (qld.gov.au/alerts) shows current severe weather warnings.
If severe storms or flooding are forecast then delay or reschedule. Never drive through floodwater. The Queensland Government's message is simple: if it's flooded then forget it.
Step 3: Check flood risk at both addresses
Brisbane City Council's Flood Awareness Map lets you check whether your old or new address sits in a flood-prone area. If either address is at risk then plan to move early in the day and keep a backup date. If you are using storage then check the facility's access hours because some close early in severe weather.
Step 4: Pack for wet weather
Use containers with lids
Open or flimsy cartons are the weak point in a wet move. Our crates have lids that fold closed and they are weather-resistant. They are not waterproof so treat them as a good first line of defence and not a reason to leave stacks sitting in the rain. Our Heavy Duty Moving Crate comes in small and medium and large sizes.
Protect the mattresses
A mattress is bulky and hard to dry. Our Waterproof Mattress Bag is designed to shield mattresses from dirt and dust and moisture during loading and transport and it comes in single and double and queen and king sizes.
Pad and cover furniture
Moving blankets (180cm x 200cm) help protect tables and cabinets and appliances from scratches. Our range also includes furniture covers and a TV storage bag (available in two sizes for TVs up to 60 inches). See our full Furniture Protection collection.
Keep the important things dry and close
Pack your electronics and documents and valuables in sealed containers and travel with them in your own car. Unplug computers and other sensitive electronics before a storm and keep chargers and medication within reach.
Weather-resistant is not the same as waterproof. Keep crates off wet ground and out of heavy rain.
Step 5: Protect your floors and your footing
- Lay towels or old blankets at entrances to catch wet footprints.
- Keep a covered area ready at both ends so crates are not left on wet ground.
- Do not lift heavy items on wet driveways or steps.
- Avoid metal trolleys and ladders if there is lightning around.
- Clear gutters and downpipes before moving day so water does not back up.
Queenslander homes add a challenge. Raised stumps and external stairs can get slippery. If either home has long stairs then allow extra time and an extra pair of hands.
Step 6: Build in flexibility with your hire dates
With us you pick the latest delivery date you can accommodate and we deliver the crates on that day or up to five days before. We collect on your final hire date or up to five days after. The standard hire period is two weeks. If a storm delays your move just ask us to extend your hire before your scheduled collection. Additional hire fees apply. Check our FAQ for details.
What to do if a storm hits on the day
Queensland SES advice for severe storms is to move indoors and stay away from windows and external doors until the storm has passed. In moving terms that means pausing the loading and getting everyone inside. Park vehicles under cover or away from trees and power lines where you can. Unplug electrical items to avoid damage from a power surge. Once the storm clears check the ground is safe before you start lifting again.
Do not try to beat the weather by rushing. A slow and safe finish is better than a dropped crate or an injury on a wet driveway.
Your wet weather moving day checklist
- Book an early start and choose a backup date.
- Check the Bureau of Meteorology forecast daily and the night before.
- Check flood risk at both addresses.
- Pack in lidded crates or sealed containers.
- Cover mattresses and wrap furniture.
- Keep electronics and documents with you.
- Lay towels at entrances and have a covered unloading area.
- Do not drive through floodwater and stop if conditions turn severe.
Frequently asked questions
When is storm season in Brisbane?
It generally runs from late spring through summer. Rainfall averages are highest from December to March according to Bureau of Meteorology figures quoted by R2G.
What is the best time of day to move in Brisbane?
An early start between 7am and 8am is best for most moves. You finish in daylight and ahead of the usual afternoon storms.
Are your moving crates waterproof?
Our crates are weather-resistant with secure lids. They are not waterproof so avoid leaving them out in heavy rain for long periods.
Should I postpone my move if there is a storm warning?
If severe storms or flooding are forecast then delaying is the safest choice. Check official warnings and never drive through floodwater.
How can I protect my mattress during a wet move?
Use a waterproof mattress bag. We hire out our Waterproof Mattress Bag in single and double and queen and king sizes.
Plan a dry move this summer
Browse our residential moving crate packages and add a mattress bag and some moving blankets to your order. We deliver across Brisbane and Ipswich and the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast.
See the crate packages