5 Tips for Moving During COVID-19
It’s spring 2020 and it’s usually a time for lots of fun in the sun and outdoor activities for the entire family. Unfortunately, due to Coronavirus, our time in the sun has been replaced by time with family at home. What’s worse, trying to accomplish ordinary things like grocery shopping, ordering takeout, and going to work or school has become a challenge as we try to figure out this new normal of sheltering at home. As our leaders work through safe ways to transition back to some sort of normalcy, the rest of us are left figuring out how to manage our lives in the midst of so much turmoil. Whatever the reason may be, some of us have to power through big transitions in life such as moving house and home even during this unprecedented shutdown. In this article, we’ll cover 5 tips you can use to stay safe if you find yourself having to move during COVID-19.
Consider These Facts Before Moving
Coronavirus can be fatal for certain members of the population including individuals over 60 and those with pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. Therefore, if you have anyone in your home fitting these conditions it is imperative to safeguard these people from exposure. In fact, if you or someone in your household is at risk, it is recommended to postpone your move until it is deemed safe to do so. The CDC recommends that we all do our part to slow the spread of Coronavirus. Consequently, each person must be aware of how germs are spread during their activities, practice social distancing, and engage in frequent hand washing among other things. It can be difficult to apply these guidelines in a home move scenario, but it’s not impossible.
If you have to move during this time, please take the necessary precautions to keep you and your family safe in addition to providing a safe environment for your movers. Things like making clean hand washing stations available, supplying hand sanitizer, and keeping a safe distance from the moving crew will go a long way in minimizing the spread of germs.
Minimize the Number of People Present During the Move
Additionally, consider minimizing the number of people on site during the move. A moving crew can work alone if items have already been packed and labeled. It’s not necessary to have the entire family present during the move. In cases where family members are present (because we are encouraged to stay home during this time), consider creating a “family only” space where your family members can shelter during the move to limit exposure to other people.
Read the Moving Company’s Coronavirus Policy
Moving is considered essential and most moving companies are still operational during this time. However, it’s important to ask or identify what the moving company’s COVID-19 policies are to determine if the moving company is practicing safety protocols and if you and your family are comfortable with those protocols. All businesses who interact with the public in some way should have a COVID-19 statement readily available on their websites. Look for policies such as regular sanitation procedures, testing of employees, hand washing, wearing personal protection, and so forth.
Have a Supply Plan in Place
Whether you purchase supplies from the moving company or you buy the supplies yourself, you don’t want to engage in any moving events without a plan for getting supplies. It is not recommended to use recycled boxes from stores or neighbors during the pandemic. There’s a risk that those supplies could carry harmful bacteria. Buy your supplies brand new either from the moving company or from a retailer. Try to buy everything together to avoid making multiple trips to the store. This will help you minimize your own exposure.
Plan for a 24 Hour Hold on Boxes and Belongings
According to the CDC, Coronavirus can remain on surfaces for up to 24 hours. With this in mind, we recommend that you have all of your boxes packed and labeled for 24 hours before your moving crew arrives. This will give any bacteria that exists time to die off. Likewise, plan to let boxes and items sit for 24 hours after your move is completed before unpacking.
It’s important to maintain a high level of communication and transparency with your movers. If someone in your home is sick or not feeling well, consider postponing the move so as to not exacerbate the situation or risk exposing anyone else. If you do have to cancel or postpone, let your movers know as early as possible. Pay close attention to the latest updates from the CDC as well as local authorities. Moving during the Coronavirus pandemic can be more challenging, but it’s not impossible.
At Ease Moving service is honored to serve our community during this time of uncertainty. We have safely moved dozens of customers during this time and we will continue to make our services available with safety being our number one priority. We are actively following recommended guidelines from the CDC as well as local authorities. See our COVID-19 Statement here. For a free, no-hassle quote, give us a call today - (615) 768-1692 or fill out a quote request form here.