While the coronavirus has put a stop to many of our normal daily routines, moving is not always something that can be delayed, no matter the situation. If you have to move, you may be wondering the best way to plan your move during the pandemic to remain safe and healthy.
COVID-19 is not the first coronavirus but is a new strain of an existing group of coronaviruses that is spread from person to person through droplets from the nose or mouth. This virus is highly contagious, making social distancing (staying six feet away from people who are not members of your household), avoiding mass gatherings, groups, and crowds important.
If you have flexibility in your moving date, you will want to cancel your move if possible, especially if you or someone in your household is in a high-risk group. If you are unable to postpone due to a lease ending or if you have sold or purchases a home with an upcoming closing date, you will likely need to continue with your move.
Luckily, moving companies are considered an essential business in many states and will likely be operating to assist you with your move.
If you are not feeling well as your moving date approaches, you should notify your moving company to inform them of any potential risk there is for their employee. This will allow them to adjust their social distancing and sanitation measures they already have in place.
Transparency will help to keep you and your movers safe and healthy. You should also inform them if you are isolating due to exposure. Wear a mask and gloves while packing your items and sanitize items that will be handled directly. Finish packing 24 hours prior to their arrival and keep items in a closed room. Keep your mask and gloves on when movers arrive and practice social distancing.
Planning for a move is crucial, especially during a pandemic. We’ve put together a few tips to help you stay safe and on track:
Talk to your movers to confirm your reservation and to review the safety protocols for your moving day. This will ensure you understand the safeguards they have in place to protect you and their staff. This will ensure you are all on the same page.
If you’re going out to the store, try to get all of your moving supplies in one trip. Grab boxes, tape, bubble wrap, etc. If you prefer not to go to the store, look online for moving supplies, and have them shipped to your house.
Items such as your bedside lamp or alarm clock don’t usually get wiped down often, so use this opportunity to wipe them and other items down with disinfectant. If you don’t have any on hand, you can mix a tablespoon of bleach with a gallon of water to use as a disinfectant.
Provide movers with hygiene products. To make it easier for them to follow best practices, provide movers with soap and paper towels by the sink, and hand sanitizer in areas such as the doorways they will be using.
Avoid using free or recycled moving boxes. The virus can live on cardboard for up to 24 hours, so it is best to avoid using recycled boxes. Purchase new boxes to use for your move or repurpose ones you already have in your home.
Plan carefully if you must travel for your move. If you need to book flights or hotels, be sure to make refundable reservations or work with companies that provide free cancellations. Ask about the cancellation policies prior to booking, so you don’t waste money. You can also learn more with AMSA tips for moving during the pandemic.
At Gardner moving, our staff is following all federal and local guidelines for social distancing and sanitation to ensure your move is conducted safely. Our trucks and equipment are frequently sanitized; we practice social distancing, as well as wearing masks and gloves. Contact us today to learn more about our moving services.
