The coronavirus (COVID-19) has made the way we live everyday life look a little different. We all practice social distancing, but what if a move is necessary during this unprecedented time? Moving companies have put many protocols in place to keep you and your family safe and to help ensure guidelines are met. You may be wondering how to move safely during COVID-19. There are several ways to help keep your family and the movers safe while keeping your timeline and move as stress-free as possible.
Choosing a Moving Company
When relocating, the moving company you choose is always an important decision. An insured, professional company will provide you with peace of mind when having your valuables handled by others. In finding a moving company that knows how to move safely during COVID-19, there are some other factors to consider and questions to ask before settling on a moving company. Do some research or ask the moving company you are looking into these questions:
- What measures are being taken to keep your employees safe?
- What measures will be required by the customer while movers are on locations?
- Will masks be required by all drivers and crew?
- What are the protocols for an employee who is sick?
- What happens if the customer tests positive for COVID-19 after the moving date is scheduled?
- Will I be notified if a crew member tests positive after my move?
Getting answers to all of these questions will be helpful and make you feel more comfortable and put your mind at ease when the day of your move arrives.
Rescheduling Policies
Before making a decision on hiring a moving company, make sure you check with them on their rescheduling policy. It’s not uncommon for a moving company to be booked up for weeks ahead of time, so what happens if you or somebody in your family gets sick or is waiting for results on a COVID-19 test? Make sure you are hiring a mover who is willing to be flexible in the event that rescheduling is necessary.
Social Distancing
Maintaining a 6ft distance has become part of everyday life and should also be practiced during your move. Wearing a mask and requesting (if it’s not already mandatory) for drivers and crew to also wear a mask is another way to further everyone’s safety. Another way moving companies have made it easier to social distance is by providing virtual quotes. This is possible by using your mobile device to do a walk through with the company, avoiding in-person meetings until moving day.
Clean and Disinfect
Hiring a professional cleaning company for the move in/move out process is a common time-saving option. However, having more people than necessary in your home or office may not be something that you want at the current time. The safest option, also now suggested, is that you clean the space yourself.
Cleaning and disinfecting your home before and after the move is recommended. It is important to clean surfaces that are touched most often, such as countertops, tables, and door handles.
Wash Your Hands
The CDC recommends wetting hands, applying disinfecting soap, then continuing to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with warm water, making sure to get under nails and the front and back of your hands. Having hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes handy during your move for the crew could also lower the risk of being exposed to COVID-19.
When settling in and unpacking your new space, disinfect all furniture and personal belongings as you unpack as well as clean and disinfect the space itself such as doorknobs, hard surfaces, light switches, and outlets. Make sure during the unpacking process to not touch your face until all packing material has been disposed of properly.
Move Safely with S&M Moving Systems
S&M Moving’s priority is the complete safety and health of its customers, employees, clients, and suppliers. We are continuing to make how to move safely during COVID-19 a top priority by following the safety protocols provided by the CDC and continuing to screen employees daily. We provide all employees with the proper PPE, including masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, and disinfecting supplies. We ask all clients to wear masks and to practice social distancing. Whether you are moving a home, office, or in need of international transport, S&M Moving Systems is committed to you and all employees’ safety. Request your virtual quote today!