Moving Safely During a Pandemic: 6 Crucial Tips

Published: Wednesday, November 17th, 2021

Has the ongoing pandemic put your plans of relocating to a halt? Are you in the midst of shifting residences but feel overwhelmed? Don't let these challenging times derail your moving plans entirely; instead, adapt and maneuver safely. Here's a comprehensive six-step guide to facilitate your transition during these trying times:

    1. Embrace Virtual Tools for House Hunting: In the era of physical distancing, digital tools come to your aid. Harness the power of virtual platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams to explore potential homes. Connect with your real estate broker and ask for a comprehensive virtual tour that covers all nooks and crannies, including the surrounding neighborhood. In this way, you can continue house hunting from the safety of your current abode.

    2. Assemble an Essentials Kit: Amidst the chaos of packing, don't forget to prepare an essentials kit. This should include pandemic necessities like hand sanitizer, disinfectants, face masks, and soap. Keep this kit within easy reach during your move to help maintain hygiene and prevent possible exposure to the virus.

    3. Streamline, Purge, and Disinfect: One of the daunting tasks while moving is deciding what to pack. To simplify, adopt a minimalistic approach: if you haven't used an item in over a year, it's probably time to let it go. Once you've decluttered, ensure all remaining belongings are thoroughly disinfected before packing.

    4. Vet the Safety Measures of your Moving Company: If you're considering hiring professional movers, don't forget to check their safety procedures. Ensure they adhere to standard SOPs, including regular disinfection routines and wearing face masks. Remember, precaution is always better than cure.

    5. Allow a Buffer Before Moving In: Upon finalizing a new home, resist the urge to move in immediately. Given that the virus can linger for hours to days, it's advisable to let the house 'air out' for a while. This waiting period serves as an additional safety measure, potentially reducing any residual virus presence.

    6. Clean and Disinfect Your New Home Thoroughly: Despite the previous owners possibly cleaning the house, you should undertake your own comprehensive cleaning. Pay special attention to ventilation systems, floors, and storage spaces. By doing this, you mitigate the risk of any lingering virus and ensure a safe and sanitized environment.

In conclusion, moving homes during a pandemic is undeniably challenging but by no means impossible. By integrating these six practical tips into your moving strategy, you can ensure a safer transition into your new home. Prioritize your health above all; after all, the joy of a new home is best experienced when we are in good health and high spirits. Stay safe and make the best of your move!