The coronavirus (COVID-19) has brought about a tremendous change in our society today. How we socialize, how we work, how we shop, how we exercise…the list goes on and on. But, some aspects of our lives must move forward – both figuratively and, in some cases, literally! If you have plans to move state-to-state during this COVID-19 pandemic, we have the answers to your questions.
Can I Still Hire a Moving Company?
At the time this article is written, moving companies are considered essential and are still open. If you have already scheduled your move and your moving truck company, and they haven’t reached out to you about anything, then it’s safe to assume that the moving company is still planning to provide you their services. We suggest you still call to confirm and ask if there are any special precautionary actions that they are taking or suggest that you take. If you have a scheduled move with MiniMoves, you are in good hands and we are fully operating.
If you have not yet scheduled your move, it is hard to say what the future holds. But, our best advice is to research moving companies as planned and when calling for quotes, ask what special actions they are taking to keep their employees, furniture movers, helpers, and clients healthy and safe.
Along this same line, self-move moving truck companies are also considered essential businesses and are open and available for you to rent your own truck.
Are Storage Units Open?
Storage units are also considered essential businesses and therefore are open and in operations. Many storage units are offering contactless operations, reduced hours of operations, and limited hours of accessibility. As with all essential businesses today, they should be adhering to proper hygiene practices, which includes sanitization of common areas and materials like carts and pads, and requiring space between customers and employees of at least six feet.
Tips for Moving During an Epidemic
There are a lot of questions about the best ways to keep you and your family safe during the pandemic. These questions become magnified for those who are about to move state to state.
Our first tip for you is to follow the most recent recommendations offered by the WHO and CDC. The American Moving & Storage Association (ASMA) suggests that if you do not have to move right now, reschedule and move after the pandemic is over. Some people don’t have a choice, as we also don’t know when the end of the pandemic will be here. Additionally, if you do get sick, it is advised that you reschedule your move by at least 14 days.
AMSA suggests that all moving and storage companies practice increased hygiene such as requiring all employees to wear gloves and masks, wash hands regularly, use hand sanitizer as often as possible, clean and sanitize trucks more often, and giving estimates by phone or online only.
What should you do to prepare for your upcoming move?
- Provide hygiene products for your movers, such as handsoap and paper towels, so they can wash their hands frequently. If you have hand sanitizer, please provide that as well. If you do not, please let the moving company know in advance that you do not have these supplies so they can bring their own.
- Don’t use free or recycled moving boxes unless you’ve had them for quite some time. The coronavirus has been detected on cardboard for up to 24 hours. You’re better off using boxes you’ve had or boxes that you purchase from a store or online store.
- If you are in the high-risk category for this virus, you should reconsider your move and reschedule if possible.
- If you do plan to cancel your move, cancel early so you can give your moving company advanced notice.
The most important thing to remember about moving during a pandemic is to follow all the pandemic best practices that include social distancing and sanitization. Do not use handshakes, wash your hands frequently, don’t touch your face, use gloves where necessary, use a facemask when around others, and keep your distance from anyone outside of your family.
On the upside, if you are planning a state to state move right now, you will hopefully find the necessary time to pack, clean and purge to make your move less stressful. If you have any questions at all about moving during a pandemic, please feel free to call us with your questions.
