As Indianapolis experiences colder-than-usual temperatures heading into the holiday season, residents are feeling the impact not only on their daily routines but also on how they shop, celebrate, and even move. While chilly weather isn’t unusual this time of year, this week’s temperatures—hovering in the 20s and low 30s—are below seasonal averages, and they’re influencing local behavior in some predictable ways.
At Wheaton Moving & Storage, we keep a close eye on Indiana’s winter patterns because weather affects everything from traffic flow to move-day logistics. Here’s how the cold snap is shaping Indianapolis right now—and what it means for families planning a move this season.
❄️ Cold Weather Is Changing Holiday Shopping Behavior
Black Friday Foot Traffic Takes a Hit
With wind chills dipping lower than usual, outdoor shopping centers and big-box stores saw reduced foot traffic. Shoppers were less likely to wait in long outdoor lines or hop between locations in strip malls.
Indoor Malls Win — and Cyber Monday Surges
Warmer indoor environments like Castleton Square, Greenwood Park Mall, and Circle Centre benefitted from the cold, drawing shoppers who preferred to stay inside.
But the biggest winner? Cyber Monday.
Colder-than-normal weather naturally pushes more consumers indoors, and this spike in online holiday shopping is especially noticeable in Indianapolis this week. People are choosing to stay warm, avoid slippery roads, and take advantage of online deals instead of venturing out.
🦃 Post-Thanksgiving Festivities Are Affected Too
The weekend after Thanksgiving typically kicks off the holiday season in a big way, but frigid temperatures tend to reduce attendance at outdoor events, including:
- Tree-lighting ceremonies
- Holiday markets
- ZooLights or outdoor holiday displays
Families still participate—but many choose warmer days, earlier time slots, or indoor alternatives. Fortunately, many Indianapolis events have adapted with warming stations, indoor viewing areas, and shorter outdoor wait times.
🚚 What This Means for Moving in Indianapolis
Cold weather doesn’t just change shopping habits—it affects moving, too. At Wheaton, our team is fully prepared for winter conditions, and we take extra measures to ensure each move is safe, efficient, and stress-free.
1. Winter Conditions Slow Transportation — Unless You’re Prepared
Snow flurries, slick roads, and reduced visibility can disrupt logistics for unprepared companies. Wheaton relies on:
- Winter-ready trucks
- Weather-trained crews
- Flexible scheduling
- Real-time route adjustments
This keeps moves on track even when temperatures plunge.
2. Demand Shifts During Holiday Weather
Colder weather often slows elective moves, but urgent relocations still happen—job changes, lease turnovers, and end-of-year deadlines. This can create opportunities for families who want more hands-on service, as winter tends to provide:
- More flexible scheduling options
- Crews with additional availability
- Faster turnaround times
3. We Help Protect Your Belongings in Cold Conditions
Cold temperatures can affect items like electronics, wood furniture, and fragile materials. Our crews take extra steps with:
- Insulated padding
- Temperature-aware packing strategies
- Efficient loading to reduce exposure
Your belongings stay protected from harsh conditions from start to finish.
🎁 Holiday Weather or Not — Wheaton Keeps Indianapolis Moving
Winter weather in Indianapolis brings both challenges and advantages. While shoppers shift their habits and holiday events adapt to colder days, Wheaton Moving & Storage remains committed to ensuring that your move stays smooth, safe, and on schedule.
If you’re planning a relocation during the holiday season—or simply want advice on navigating winter moving—we’re here to help.
Our team is trained, equipped, and ready for whatever Indiana weather brings.