Moving safely can be a challenge even in normal times. But with COVID-19 around, moving can be an even more intimidating process!
If you’re looking for information on moving during the COVID-19 pandemic, you’re in the right place. Read on to learn more about how to move safely during these unprecedented times.
Can You Move Your Moving Date?
If the answer to the question above is “yes,” you should absolutely consider adjusting your timeline to move in safer times.
Given the circumstances, movers’ cancellation or rescheduling fees may be lowered or even dropped altogether (though this will vary from company to company.)
All in all, it’s important to choose the safest option for your family. This is especially important if you or other members of your household are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19.
However, for many people (especially renters), move-in and move-out dates are non-negotiable. If that’s the case, it’s time to start planning ahead!
Plan Ahead
Luckily, moving services are considered essential businesses, meaning that most moving businesses or truck rental companies will remain open. That said, part of that decision is up to individual proprietors.
That’s why it’s important to call the moving company (or truck rental company, or storage company) ahead of time to make sure things are still on for your move date. It’s better to reach out sooner rather than later, as many companies have more limited business hours as of late and it may take longer to get a response.
While you have the company on the phone, ask about any COVID-related policy changes they may have such as contactless pick-up or virtual quotes for the move.
Packing Up
In addition to planning ahead, you can do plenty of packing in the comfort of your own COVID bubble before the moving truck arrives.
Many people choose to pick up used cardboard boxes and other moving supplies from recycling services or old friends. But given the increased risks of contracting COVID, you’re better off buying your own materials this time around (or recycling your own old boxes.) Make sure to have enough boxes, tape, and bubble wrap handy to pack all your belongings.
Some moving companies will give you the option of having the moving crew pack up your belongings. This can be very convenient normally, but given the increased risk of disease, it’s better to pack your own things this time around.
COVID-19 can live on cardboard for up to 24 hours. If you can, try to have all of your things packed up and sanitized a day before the movers arrive. That way, you know that you will not spread any potential viruses on to them!
You might also take advantage of a storage unit to pack over time. You can store any boxes you’ve packed there over time to keep them safe and germ-free.
Additionally, consider getting rid of any items that you don’t want to pack up or take with you by hiring a https://www.orangecrewchicago.com/services.html.
Safety Measures
When it comes to moving during a pandemic, you can’t be too careful with your precautions. For example, make sure that you’ve sanitized any rental equipment before using it. This might include a dolly or a truck’s steering wheel.
In addition to frequent sanitization, you should also be washing your hands thoroughly and often. When you can’t run to a sink, you can use hand sanitizer as an alternative. That said, a thorough scrubbing with soap and warm water is more effective than most sanitizers!
It’s also important to wear personal protective equipment like gloves and masks while moving. This will not only keep you safe but also keep the other people you may encounter on your journey safe.
These same tips should apply to any movers you hire. If you’re able to, it’s a great idea to provide PPE and sanitization materials to any staff you hire to help you move. This will help keep them safe and keep your family safe.
Finally, as you move in and/or out of a building, make sure to frequently sanitize high-touch surfaces like countertops and doorknobs. In fact, you may even consider propping doors open in order to limit the number of people who need to touch the doorknob.
Social Distancing
As with any other pandemic activity outside your quarantine bubble, social distancing should always be taken into consideration. While you move, try to keep six feet between you and the nearest person. This can be challenging in a moving situation, but it will pay off when everyone leaves the experience happy and healthy!
You might also consider hiring a smaller moving crew or gathering a smaller group of people to help you move. The fewer people involved in the process, the less chance of exposure to COVID-19.
Feeling Sick? Skip the Move!
If you’re feeling ill on moving day, don’t be a hero! Since moving involves lots of lifting and touching of objects, it is not safe for you to participate if you’re sick. This is especially important if you’ve hired movers or asked friends/family to help.
In addition to keeping others safe, the process of moving is very stressful on the body. If you push yourself too hard and try to move while you’re ill, it will likely take you longer to recover than it would otherwise.
Take the time to care for yourself and recover before participating in any moving activities.
Moving Safely During COVID-19
Moving safely during a pandemic can seem like a tall order, but it’s not impossible to do. If you’re forced to move during a pandemic, taking these precautions can help keep everyone involved in the move healthy and safe.
If you’re looking to simplify your moving process, contact us today to get rid of any materials you might not want to take with you to your next home!
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