Maintaining Social Distancing While Moving

If you are facing a move during the COVID-19 pandemic, you likely have concerns about hiring movers, attending closings, etc. But if your move is inflexible or impossible to change, you will have to relocate regardless, and determine the best steps for proceeding. This includes making arrangements for social distancing so everyone involved is protected.

Here’s what to know about social distancing while moving. Rest assured, Around the Block takes all necessary precautions during these unprecedented times.

First off, let’s recap what social distancing is. This is the practice of maintaining at least six feet of space between people with whom you do not live. Coronavirus spreads through respiratory droplets that can get into the air when someone sneezes, coughs, talks or sings. By following other safety procedures such as wearing a face mask, you can cut down on the chances of coming into contact with said droplets.

How to Practice Social Distancing When Moving

You may have realized this already, but it’s nearly impossible to keep six feet apart from others in all situations at all times – something you may have witnessed at the grocery store.

Because moving requires more than one person, you will have to work in close contact with someone other than those in your immediate household. This is why it’s important to hire a moving company during this time, as they can lift and load boxes without your assistance.

Moving is considered an essential business, which means moving companies all over the nation are still operating. In order to protect their employees and customers, movers have taken proper steps to reduce contact throughout the process, including offering virtual quotes rather than in-person ones.

The most practical thing you can do? Try to maintain social distance when the movers are in your home by isolating yourself in another area while they work. Make sure all of your boxes are packed, sealed, labeled and ready to go before they even arrive. If you have to sign paperwork, wear a mask while using your own pen to do so. Wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

If you are renting a moving truck…

As with moving companies, truck rental providers are also open for business during this pandemic. As such, they have had to modify their services to incorporate social distancing protocols. This includes the need for rental truck reservations to be made over the phone or online, as well as heeding vehicle pick-up and drop-off points that are different from regular branch locations. Call your provider to learn what their social distancing policies are.

Before using the truck, wipe it down thoroughly with disinfectant. Do this upon pickup as well as before dropoff. Be sure to clean all door handles, steering wheel, stick shift, seat belt, and buttons on the dashboard.

If you are using a storage facility…

Storage facilities are also open but many have cut back on their on-site staff, imposing limits on the amount of people who can access their units at one time. They will also enforce the protocol of keeping six or more feet of space between customers and employees. To be as safe as possible, choose a unit with drive-up access. This means you only have to get out of your car and have contact when loading your items in.

Other Tips for Safe Moving

In addition to maintaining six feet between yourself and others, follow these precautionary measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

If you’re high risk, not feeling well, or know you have been exposed to someone with the virus, isolate yourself. If you are unable to change the date of your move, you will have to hire full-service movers to pack, load, transport, and unpack your items while you stay in a separate area at all times.
Practice good hygiene, including wearing a mask and leaving it on during the entire move, washing your hands, and sanitizing surfaces.
Don’t go for free moving supplies. Instead of picking up free boxes from your local grocery store, you should buy new from a store or use containers you already have in your home.

It’s important to follow protocols for reducing the chance of transmitting or contracting COVID-19. Yes, it takes more planning, but it will keep you safe.