Alt: Hands wearing rubber gloves, holding a globe with a face mask.
The pandemic has turned our lives upside down. For over a year now, our days have been beaming with fear and uncertainty. Gradually, we learned that life does not and cannot stop, no matter the circumstances. We learnedhow to approach things in a new way and make the best out of any situation. We have new rules to follow, and if we stick by them, we should get through just fine! That goes for moving long-distance during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well.
The good news is: it can be done! If you are careful and thoughtful, your move during these challenging times shouldn’t be any more stressful than it usually would be. We have done our research and prepared tips to help your long-distance move go as smoothly as possible, despite the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.
What to bear in mind when moving long-distance during COVID-19
Cities worldwide are enforcing numerous measures to keep the virus from spreading and slow down the pandemic. But, as we mentioned, many people still need to move around. Your lease might be up, or you got relocated for a work opportunity. Maybe you are moving long-distance to be closer to your family.
Although the process of searching and settling into a new home has changed in the past year, all of those changes are there to protect us. It is critical to stay flexible during the relocation and follow all the safety guidelines. And, of course, we are here to help!
Many worries impose themselves concerning the topic. One of the most important ones is related to the service of the moving companies.
Are moving services still available during the pandemic?
Although there are differences from state to state, moving companies have continued to offer their services, even during the lockdown. Relocation is considered an essential need, and companies are able to carry out work. What has changed is their procedures and customer experience.
To protect both parties, social distancing guidelines and health protocols must be followed. In practice, it means that movers will be wearing face masks and gloves at all times. Any direct contact between them and the customer should be minimal. You should ensure that doors and windows stay open, as well as wash your hands and have a sanitizing station.
Alt: Hands with blue rubber gloves, using cleaning products to sanitize when moving long-distance during the COVIF-19 pandemic.
It is also a good idea to pack as much as you can by yourself and clean your belongings with standard cleaning products before they are managed by others.
If you need to get advice on packing directly from the movers or get the details of your long-distance move straight, the best thing to do is call beforehand and set up a virtual consultation.
Assessing the cost of your move
Moving long-distance during COVID-19 can be pricier than expected. With all the measures and restrictions that need to be followed, it’s essential to plan well and ahead. Having a good plan can lower the moving expenses, so you should try to avoid overpaying if possible.
The great news is that most moving companies now offer an online assessment of costs. They do not have to come into your home to provide moving quotes; it is mainly done over virtual surveys!
Tips for the move
When you have dealt with all the legal and safety procedures, it is time for the actual move. Long-distance relocation can be a significant endeavor even in a time without a pandemic, so it is vital to plan extra carefully now and arm yourself with patience.
Whether you are moving long-distance by yourself or if preparing the whole family for the move, these tips will hopefully make your relocation during COVID-19 at least a notch easier. While getting ready, you should bear in mind the following things:
- Make a detailed plan
- Choose the method of transportation
- Follow the health guidelines
Make a detailed plan beforehand
One of the (maybe the only) perks of this pandemic and the isolation period is that we got more time for certain things. Being at home has allowed us to slow down and approach things closer than before. You can use that as an advantage for your long-distance move! It gives you more time to plan and organize everything.
Planning ahead allows you the chance to sort out a large portion of things online, which lowers the risk of infection. Some aspects of the move can be unpredictable due to restrictions, so it is important to double-check everything.
Choose the method of transportation
Organizing a long-distance move also incorporates finding the suitable method of transportation. Whether you are taking a plane, renting a van, hiring a freight truck, or taking a train, you need to plan accordingly. It is necessary to keep yourself updated with all the COVID-19 regulations, both in your state and at your end destination.
Caption: Whatever means of transportation you choose, make sure to follow the regulations.
Alt: A train passing by.
Caption: Whatever
means of transportation you choose, make sure to follow the regulations.
Alt: A train passing by.
If you are traveling by plane, it might be a good idea to take the first flight of the day, due to the lower risk of contagion.
Make sure you work with companies that offer refundable reservations/free cancellations.
Follow the health guidelines
We have mentioned it before, and we say it again: staying safe is of the greatest importance! Following the health regulations is a way to achieve that.
You should sanitize all your items before and after the move. Keep your sanitizer close and wash your hands regularly!
Make sure you wear a face mask and gloves at all times, as well as practice social distancing, both with the movers and during your trip.
When driving, it is best to make a pit-stop in nature or a place with fewer people.
If you or any other person you have been in contact with knows someone that has the symptoms of COVID-19, it is important to notify the moving service on time.
When you have arrived safely at your final destination, take your time to settle in and unpack. Give yourself enough time to sanitize the boxes and make room for everything.
Moving long-distance during the COVID-19 pandemic can be quite a challenge, but don’t forget that you are starting a great new chapter in your life, where opportunities await.
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