The Corona Virus (COVID-19) has affected everyone's routines and created a "new normal" that is now defining our lives both here in the U.K. and even abroad. While social distancing and working from home is all well and good if you have to stick to your life as you are otherwise used to, unless you have to do something where staying put just isn't an option, like moving homes, or moving across the country.
Contemplating moving during a pandemic raises some important questions. How does one move safely and responsibly during this pandemic, and are moving services still available so one can get reliable movers to facilitate the move?
Will I be able to find moving services?
Even though most "non-essential" businesses have been closed temporarily, moving is considered an essential service and providers are currently operating all over. Make sure you check out your moving service provider's COVID-19 policy. You should make sure they have essential protocols in place regarding physical distancing and sanitization.
How should I prepare to move amid the pandemic?
While planning is important for any move, it is doubly important to have a plan in place if you are moving during the coronavirus.
To plan your move during COVID-19, keep the following tips in mind:
Make a list of supplies you will need and buy them in one go. Since frequent trips to the store for supplies aren't recommended, you should plan for the supplies you will need and make sure you have them readily available.
Finish packing your boxes 24 hours before the movers are due to pick them up. Since the Coronavirus can last up to 24 hours on cardboard boxes, you should have them packed and sealed in time. While the movers will most likely be wearing gloves, you should have your boxes sitting untouched for at least a day before the movers arrive to ensure everyone's safety.
Provide sanitization and hygiene products for the movers. Put out products that your movers they can use as they move your furniture and boxes to and from the moving truck. You should also provide soap and paper towels next to the sink, and hand sanitizers next to the door that they will use to come and go.
Ensure the health of the moving boxes you are using. Avoid using free or recycled moving boxes. Since the coronavirus can survive for a long time on cardboard, it is not a great idea to pick them up from places that recycle them. While you can safely use the boxes that you already have lying around at home, but you should buy new ones if you need any extras.
Should I postpone the move?
If there is any flexibility in your moving date, you should definitely consider waiting. This is especially important if you or anyone in your family belong to the high-risk group. If your moving date is not flexible and you can't postpone your move, you can limit exposure by using your own vehicle or rental truck as long as you are confident that you will be able to manage all the heavy lifting on your own.
Stay Safe.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
