6 Tips for Moving Safely during a Pandemic

COVID-19 has put a stop to the normal routines that people follow during everyday life in almost every part of the globe. The recommended course of action to take is social distancing, but sometimes, it is not just possible to put off moving. Already, moving is not an easy task in the best of situations and when you add a global crisis like this novel coronavirus to the mix, it will only complicate matters. How can you move during a pandemic? It is definitely going to cause more challenges, especially if it is not possible for you to delay it.

So, how do you handle everything? Here are some tips for moving safely during a pandemic:

Your highest priority should be the health and safety of your family

Yes, there is no doubt that moving is important, but you need to be aware of all the risks and facts. Be ready to change your plans if that is what it will take to keep your family safe. If you fall in a high-risk group i.e. you are over 60, have pre-existing cardiovascular or respiratory conditions or your immunity is compromised, then it is best to postpone your move. If you don’t fall into any of these categories, then you should ensure that no one in your family has tested positive for coronavirus.

Are moving services available during this time?

If you want to hire a moving service, you should ensure they are available and working in your area. As of now, there haven’t been notable shutdowns of services. If you had already scheduled your move with a company and haven’t heard anything from them, then you can assume that they are still providing their services. If you have yet to schedule a company, then you may have to make do with what is available. Rather than choosing the first option, you should do your research and find a moving company that works out for you.

Get in touch with no-contact moving services

According to health experts, one of the most effective ways to avoid contracting and spreading the virus is by practicing social distancing and avoiding contact. You can go with a contactless or no-contact move with moving containers that give you full control of your own move and allows you to avoid any physical interaction with anyone. Whether you are moving long-distance or locally, you can easily find a good moving service that can accommodate you. If storage is also part of your move, then experts at Movegreen can help you with that as well. You can talk to the moving service and make arrangements online or on the phone.

Consider built-in storage as backup

Even when you are moving routinely, moving in and moving out dates tend to shift frequently. You can think about using a moving service that can give you storage options, whether at a secure storage center or on your property. Both of these options are no-contact storage and they will keep your belongings out of the way and safein case you postpone or delay the move. You can talk to your chosen moving service about storage and they will guide you about the costs and procedure involved.

Ask about the service’s policies for cancellations, scheduling changes and refunds in a pandemic

This is currently a fluid time and anything unexpected can happen, which could result in a cancellation or delay. Therefore, you would want to have maximum flexibility at this time. You should definitely know if it is possible for you change your moving dates, just in case. Ask them what type of deposit is needed and if you will receive a refund in the event you cancel. You would want to feel confident that if a cancellation or change occurs, then you will be able to get back your money.

Use sanitation precautions during the move

No matter what type of moving service you use, you shouldn’t forget some important health and safety tips. It is best not to use recycled boxes from other sources because the coronavirus can survive on surfaces. Thus, it is not exactly a good time to economize where boxes are concerned. You can use the boxes you have or even buy new boxes. Secondly, you should also wipe down boxes and other items before moving. Clean the surfaces of boxes, furniture and other items with disinfectant wipes before they are loaded. This can reduce the possibility of transferring germs to your new home.

Provide the moving crew with sanitizer and hand-washing supplies. Make sure everyone who is helping you out has access to a sink, water and soap, and paper towels for using frequently throughout the move. If it is possible for you, provide them with disposable gloves and hand sanitizer as well.