Rain isn’t just a season in Portland — it’s a lifestyle. With more than 150 wet days a year, moving here during the rainy season isn’t a question of if you’ll get wet, but how well you’ll prepare.
Whether you’re relocating to a Pearl District condo, selling a home in Beaverton, or finally upgrading apartments in Sellwood, moving in Portland’s rainy season requires strategy. From protective gear to permit timing, the difference between a smooth move and a soaked disaster often comes down to small decisions.
This guide shares 10 practical, rain-tested tips to help you move safely, efficiently, and with your sanity (and socks) still dry.
TLDR – Quick Guide:
- Rain is the default — assume it, plan around it
- Use plastic bins or double-wrap cardboard to protect valuables
- Lay down runners and towels to guard your floors
- Hire movers who come equipped for bad weather
- Get your parking permit to stay close and legal
1. Accept That Rain Is Inevitable — Plan Anyway
Rain in Portland isn’t a maybe. It’s a near guarantee between November and March. Don’t waste time hoping for a dry day — assume you’ll be moving in wet weather and make decisions accordingly.
Instead of obsessing over long-range forecasts, focus on how to reduce rain exposure and handle slippery conditions. Monitor the hour-by-hour weather using tools like Weather Underground or AccuWeather, and time your most sensitive loading/unloading steps during lighter stretches.
Most Portland moving companies are used to working in drizzle — but your prep makes their job easier.
Moving Tip Wrap-Up: Prepare for rain. If it doesn’t happen, great. But if it does, you’ll be ready.
2. Use Plastic Totes or Wrap Cardboard Boxes Like a Pro
Your moving boxes will spend time outside, even if it’s just 30 seconds between the front door and truck. And Portland rain doesn’t play fair — one quick downpour can ruin half your inventory.
If possible, use:
- Plastic storage bins with snap lids (best for books, clothes, and electronics)
- Water-resistant cardboard or boxes wrapped with stretch plastic
- Trash bags inside boxes to add a waterproof layer
For large moves or valuable items, hiring packing pros ensures your boxes are rain-proofed with the right materials and taped shut tight.
Moving Tip Wrap-Up: Invest in waterproof bins or double-bag your essentials. You’ll thank yourself when everything inside is dry and damage-free.
3. Protect Floors from Slips, Mud, and Scuffs
Wet shoes + hardwood = disaster. Even if your movers are pros, wet floors become slippery fast, creating hazards and extra cleanup.
Protect your home by using:
- Non-slip floor runners (especially in entryways and hallways)
- Old towels or drop cloths to absorb water near entrances
- Disposable boot covers for everyone involved in the move
This is a must for residential moves involving stairs or tight turns — wet steps increase risk of injury and item damage.
Moving Tip Wrap-Up: Line every path, from truck to kitchen, with something protective. Your floors — and your movers — will appreciate it.
4. Use Tarps to Create a Dry Loading Zone
A simple tarp can work miracles during a rainy move. Create a makeshift canopy by draping one over your doorway or truck opening. This helps keep both your movers and your belongings dry during loading and unloading.
Other tarp tips:
- Use bungee cords or clamps to secure over railings or garage doors
- Lay smaller tarps on the ground if you need a staging area
- Keep a backup tarp in your car — just in case
If you’re moving into a Portland apartment with no garage or cover, this can be a total game-changer.
Moving Tip Wrap-Up: One $10 tarp can protect thousands in valuables — it’s worth every penny.
5. Wrap Furniture, Electronics, and Artwork
Not everything ruined by rain is obvious. Moisture can seep into wood joints, rust metal legs, and destroy electronics in subtle ways — especially during longer moves or if items sit in a humid truck.
Use:
- Shrink wrap or furniture pads with plastic overlay
- Mattress bags for beds and cushions
- Ziploc bags and towel linings for electronics and small gadgets
This is especially important for long-distance moving where your items may be in transit for multiple days.
Moving Tip Wrap-Up: If it’s porous, electronic, or sentimental — wrap it like it’s headed into a downpour.
6. Secure a Close, Legal Parking Spot — Don’t Wing It
The farther you carry boxes in the rain, the more likely they are to get soaked. Plan ahead by getting a legal, curbside spot close to your home.
Most high-density areas like Downtown, Pearl, or NW 23rd require a moving truck parking permit. Apply through PBOT at least 5 business days before your move.
Without a permit, you risk:
- Tickets
- Towing
- Blocked access by other vehicles
Moving Tip Wrap-Up: Don’t gamble with Portland street parking. Secure your spot early and make loading fast and dry.
7. Move in Small Batches — Don’t Stage Outside
In dry conditions, staging all your boxes near the door or driveway makes sense. In the rain? That’s a surefire way to soak everything.
Instead, move in smaller, contained batches:
- Bring items out as needed instead of staging
- Keep priority items under cover until it’s time to load
- Coordinate with movers so items go straight from door to truck
This method is especially helpful when working with full-service movers who can manage the flow efficiently.
Moving Tip Wrap-Up: Keep it moving, but don’t leave your stuff outside — Portland rain moves fast.
8. Pack an Emergency Rain Kit for Yourself
Moving is stressful enough — don’t make it worse with freezing fingers or wet jeans. Set aside a personal bag with rainy-day gear to keep yourself comfortable.
Include:
- Extra socks and gloves
- A poncho or waterproof jacket
- Microfiber towel
- Dry snacks and water
Movers may come equipped, but if you’re handling part of the job yourself, this kit is a lifesaver.
Moving Tip Wrap-Up: Keep yourself dry, too. You’re not helping anyone if you’re wet, cold, and miserable.
9. Delay Loading Delicate Items Until Last Minute
Electronics, framed art, instruments, and anything sentimental should be the last items to leave the house and the first into the truck.
Minimize their exposure to humidity and water by:
- Wrapping with plastic first
- Loading them only once the truck is mostly packed
- Avoiding unnecessary outdoor time
Same-day moving services in Portland often recommend this exact strategy when rain is in the forecast.
Moving Tip Wrap-Up: Delay delicate loads as long as possible to reduce risk.
10. Hire Movers Who Understand Portland’s Rain
This isn’t Phoenix. Portland rain requires a specific type of mover — one with gear, timing skills, and deep experience.
When vetting movers, ask:
- Do they bring tarps, floor runners, and waterproof wraps?
- Have they worked in your neighborhood before?
- Do they offer rescheduling flexibility if needed?
Look for highly rated Portland moving companies that offer rainy-season expertise and can help you move smarter, not messier.
Moving Tip Wrap-Up: Rainy moves aren’t for amateurs. Hire pros who can dance between raindrops.
FAQs: Moving in Portland’s Rainy Season
Q1: Is it okay to move in Portland during winter?
Yes — it’s common. With the right gear and game plan, most Portlanders move year-round. Just adjust your approach to handle moisture and mud.
Q2: How can I keep floors clean during a rainy move?
Use towels, floor runners, or plastic sheeting to prevent slips and protect hardwood. Set up a no-shoes zone indoors when possible.
Q3: Should I use cardboard boxes when it’s raining?
Only if you double-wrap or line them with plastic. Plastic bins or totes are much more reliable for wet conditions.
Q4: What’s the most weatherproof way to protect my furniture?
Wrap everything in moving blankets, followed by shrink wrap or waterproof covers. For upholstered items, use mattress bags or thick plastic.
Q5: Are movers still available during Portland’s rainy season?
Absolutely. Reputable companies operate year-round — Pure Moving and others adapt their tools and timing to work safely in the rain.
Key Takeaways
- Moving in Portland’s rainy season is about preparation, not luck
- Use waterproof bins, wrap everything, and prep your home
- Apply for parking permits early to stay close and legal
- Avoid staging items outside — move in waves, stay organized
- Hire movers who bring tarps, towels, and experience
- Keep yourself dry and calm with the right gear
Rain doesn’t have to ruin your move — it just needs a plan. With the right approach, your move can stay dry, efficient, and stress-free, even under Portland’s grey skies.
