The world is facing a global pandemic, and it has become the new normal for many of us to stay home and socially distance ourselves. However, at times, certain life events such as a job change or a move may be required and you could be potential facing a move during a pandemic. Moving isn’t easy at the best of times, but during a pandemic, there’s even more to think about and prep for.
Many moving companies have adapted while maintaining safety protocols, so it is possible to move despite the pandemic. With the right plan and preparation, you can navigate your move in a safe and efficient manner.
This guide walks you through the steps of how to move during a pandemic. No matter how big or small, this guide covers all the things you need to do to plan for and execute a safe pandemic move.
What To Consider Before Moving
Through any type of move, there are many steps and details you have to consider and plan for. Prior to getting started it’s essential to consider the following factors before jumping ahead to executing the move.
1. Is Moving Necessary
The primary and most important factor is to understand and consider whether or not the pandemic move is necessary or not. Ask yourself the need to move and if you can wait until the pandemic is under control. If the move is possible to defer until it’s safer and the pandemic is under control, it might be a good idea to do so. Generally, long distance moves require more time and effort and are more difficult to execute during a pandemic and require extensive social distancing measures. If a move is necessary and cannot be deferred, it’s important to plan, prep and be mindful of the safety protocols and social distancing measures.
2. Create A Moving Timeline
Once the move is determined to be necessary, it’s important to create a moving timeline. A timeline offers structure and helps guide you through the various steps you need to complete prior to and during the move. The timeline should include major steps such as packing, transporting, storing any items you cannot take with you, listing items for sale (if applicable), and any other associated tasks. Structure and being organized makes the moving process smoother and allows you to anticipate any issues that may arise.
3. Understand Local Restrictions
Planning for a pandemic move requires an understanding of local restrictions due to the pandemic. Make sure you are aware of any restrictions or guidelines such as closing time, size of social gatherings, curfew, mandated face coverings, etc. It’s important to stay up to date on local guidelines and restrictions as they may be subject to change.
Preparing For A Pandemic Move
Preparing for a pandemic move requires extra attention and consideration as you will have to take into account the safety protocols and hygiene measures.
1. Start Early
As with any move, it’s important to start early and begin the organizational process regarding items to keep, donate, discard, and store prior to the move. This will help you stay organized and reduce the amount of things to pack, transport and unpack. Additionally, if you are packing on your own, it’s always a good idea to start early by packing the items that you don’t use or need frequently.
2. Get Rid Of Unwanted Items
As mentioned earlier, it’s important to start the process early in order to get rid of items that are no longer used or needed. You can donate the items that are in good condition to charities or to family and friends, list the items for sale, or discard the items in an eco-friendly way.
3. Purchase Essentials For The Move
Based on the type of move and items you are transporting throughout the move, it’s essential to purchase the proper necessary items and materials that are required for the move. Adequate materials such as moving boxes, tape, packing paper will help keep your items safe and secure. Additionally, purchasing extra supplies such as hand sanitizer and face masks will help you stay safe throughout the course of the move.
4. Rental Trucks
When it comes transportation, rental trucks are one option to consider when you have to transport larger items that may not be able to fit in your personal vehicle. Rental trucks offer plenty or room and can help reduce the number of trips taken and are a great way to make sure all of your items are transported in one trip. However, when it comes to renting, the company you rent from may have their own protocols and safety measures in place due to the pandemic. Check with the rental company you plan to rent from to ensure that their safety protocols are in place and in order to avoid any potential issues.
5. Contact Movers
If you do not want to go through the tedious process of packing and transporting of your items and if your budget allows for it, it’s always a great idea to contact a few local movers and compare prices, services, and any other details that would apply for your particular move. When talking to movers, make sure to inquire about their health and safety protocols, such as distancing measurements, face masks, gloves, and more that are in place for the movers handling your items and throughout the move. Additionally, if you decide to hire movers, be sure to get the agreement in writing so that you have all the details related to the move.
Carrying Out The Move
Once you have completed the preparation and planning phase, now it’s time to carry out the move. During the execution phase of the move, it’s important to be mindful of the safety protocols and hygiene measures that are in place.
1. Packing
Many of you may be packing on your own to cut down on cost. When it comes to packing your items, it’s essential to stay safe by continuously washing your hands and wearing a face mask and gloves while handling the items. Additionally, you may want to create an inventory list of the items you’ve packed which will help you during the unpacking process.
2. Don’t Lift Heavy Items
Be mindful of the items that are too heavy to handle on your own. During the entire move process, it’s important to prioritize safety and be aware of your own personal health. Lifting items that are too heavy can be harmful to your health, so consider asking a friend or family member to help or you can hire a few moving helpers.
3. Utilize Sanitation Stations
When moving to your new home, utilize sanitation stations if available, to make sure the essential everyday items such as doorknobs, surfaces, light switches, appliances are clean and sanitized before entering the residence. Sanitation stations can also help reduce contact with germs as you won’t have to worry about handling the items with your hands.
4. Unpack Items
Prior to unpacking the items, make sure to put the items in a designated spot for sanitation purposes. This will help you avoid any potential germ transferring and make sure the items are hygienic and safe to use. Start unpacking the non essentials items first, and as you unpack, make sure to place the items away as soon as possible.
5. Prepare Your New Home
Lastly, when you get to your new home, prepare the home, set up a workspace, create or identify storage areas, and get your furniture and other large items up and ready. Adjust the thermostat, check the plumbing and make sure all the window coverings are all functioning properly.
Final Thoughts
Moving during a pandemic can be difficult, however with the right preparation and knowledge a pandemic move can be executed in a safe manner. It’s important to weigh out the options by understanding your move and what needs to be accomplished and taking into account the safety protocols and hygiene measures that are necessary to execute a safe move. With the tips and considerations outlined in this guide, you can apply the necessary plans and steps to ensure your move goes smoothly and safely during this pandemic.
