The Covid-19 pandemic is unlike anything we have ever seen. If you are planning a move during the COVID-19 outbreak or have already secured a move date with a professional moving company, you may want to consider some additional actions to help support a safe move. Of course, this move should be in line with the government regulations for the lockdown.
Before you move
1. Choose your moving company carefully and ask questions
Make sure you ask them what measures they are taking to ensure a safe moving experience during the COVID-19 outbreak. Most reputable movers understand the safety of you and your belongings is critical during any move.
2. Get a virtual moving quote
Avoiding in-person contact is an important step in limiting the spread of COVID-19. Virtual survey options offer an alternative to the traditional in-person moving estimate allowing you to walk an estimator through your home remotely using video chat on your mobile device.
Check with your moving company to find out more about this service.
3. Be clear on the process of rescheduling your move
If you decide to postpone your move, make sure you have a flexible booking during these uncertain times. When you receive your moving quote, you may want to inquire about refund and/or deposit policies in the event you do need to cancel your move.
4. Clean and disinfect
Hiring professional cleaners to help with your move-in/move-out cleaning tasks can be an excellent time-saving option. However, given the current restrictions and safety guidelines surrounding COVID-19, hiring a cleaning crew to come into your home is not advisable. At this time, the safest option is for you to do the house cleaning yourself.
During Your Move (Your Movers Have Arrived for Loading and Unloading)
5. Greet with a smile, not a handshake
It’s not rude; it’s simply safer to use other non-contact methods of greeting.
6. Maintain a six-foot distance
As your drivers and workers load and unload your belongings, practice social distancing AND refrain from helping with the move — let them do it. If possible, keep children, pets, and vulnerable household members in a separate area.
7. Wash hands
Request your movers to wash their hands at the door and at regular intervals. Keep hand sanitizers handy and readily available for use. It’s also a good idea to limit restroom use to one restroom in the house.
8. Practice CDC recommended protocol to decrease the spread of the virus
These recommendations include but are not limited to the following: wearing masks and/or creating reminders to avoid touching the face, limiting food sharing, scheduling regular hand washing reminders by email/text notifications and regularly disinfecting surfaces.
9. If at any point before or during your move, you suspect you’ve been exposed to the virus or have symptoms, contact a healthcare provider and inform the moving crew and company.
After Your Move
10. Thoroughly disinfect your new home before you unpack and settle in
In addition to cleaning and disinfecting your furniture and belongings as you unpack, make sure to properly dispose of all packing materials. Carefully dispose of used packing material according to waste disposal and recycling guidelines.