Moving house is already a complex process, whether you choose to move on your own, ask help from friends or hire professionals to relieve stress that comes with packing and unpacking. But when you factor in the current COVID-19 pandemic, it’s natural to worry more about moving house.
This is a contributed post and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of Meet The Harris Family.
Sure, you’ve finally found a reasonably priced house and lot for sale . But how do you move there when social distancing and self-isolation measures in place? How can you ensure a safe move when COVID-19 is still out there? Should you still move?
Is Moving Essential?
Some people don’t have the liberty of a flexible moving date. If you previously purchased or sold a home with an upcoming closing date or have a lease ending soon, you need access to critical services that make moving possible.
Although some cities have ordered the temporary closure of ‘non-essential’ businesses, moving is considered essential; therefore, moving service providers are still available.
But if you have flexibility in your moving date, waiting is a good option, especially if you or family members are at high risk for COVID-19. Moving house during a lockdown might compromise your family’s health.
Staying Safe During a Move
Always Proceed with Caution
If you wish to proceed with the move, proceed with caution – just like you would whenever you go outside. If you’ve gone grocery shopping, you’ve noticed how shoppers are hyperaware of their surroundings, as well as their interactions with other people. Apply the same level of attentiveness to your move.
Before you hire a professional moving service, ask about their COVID-19 safety procedures. Will they be wearing personal protective equipment (PPEs) or will you provide them? How many movers will arrive at your place? Consider the structure of the services.
If your friends and family are willing to help, limit the number of people who will do so. As much as you appreciate their help, you can’t risk everyone contracting the disease. Limit the number to ten people or less and, as much as possible, allow only those who aren’t under the high-risk category.
Manage Your Expectations
Before the pandemic, welcoming multiple movers and loved ones into your home makes the move easier. However, social distancing is a priority these days. As mentioned above, it is important to re-think the number of people helping you out.
Limiting exposure is the best way. If you have a crew of three people who will be working in your home, have two people work inside while one person stays in the truck.
In terms of interactions, try to maintain distance between you and the movers. Avoid handshakes; a friendly nod will do for acknowledgment. Also, ask the movers to wash their hands before and after. If your moving team is prepared, they should come armed with hand sanitizers, face masks and gloves.
Ask Questions
If you are hiring a professional team, find out how COVID-19 has altered their protocol. Learn more about how they monitor the health of the crew, as well as the type of supplies they have. Also, ask their strategy for the move and how they will apply social distancing.
The pandemic need not keep you from moving to your new home. But when you do make the move, prioritize safety. After all, you wouldn’t want to move COVID-19 to your new home. Stay safe, and happy moving day!
