How to Move Safely During a Pandemic
Even though the economy has slowed down, the housing market in Orange County has not. The demand for housing continues to skyrocket as homes are flying off the market in record time. It’s safe to say prospective buyers are not letting the coronavirus stop them from finding their perfect home.
But its’s imperative to take the necessary precautions to increase your safety and the safety of your loved ones while moving during this pandemic. Keep reading for tips on how to move safely during this coronavirus pandemic.
5 Ways to Move Safely During the Coronavirus Pandemic
Travel by Car
Right now, travelling by car is much safer than traveling by plane. If you’re moving cross country, consider driving to your destination with your family rather than flying. It may take longer, but ultimately the safety of your family should take precedence over the convenience of flying.
Vet Your Moving Company
Many movers have changed the way they operate during this pandemic. They’re offering contactless estimates and services, making it more important than ever to vet the moving company you’re going to use for your move. Moving already poses challenges when we aren’t during a pandemic. By vetting your moving company and doing your due diligence before your move, you can save yourself some frustration.
Here are some questions you should be asking your potential moving companies:
– Are you providing virtual estimates?
– Are the movers using all the necessary safety precautions when dealing with your things like masks, gloves and hand sanitizer?
– Will all the equipment including sound blankets and other moving gear be cleaned prior to the move?
– Is the truck thoroughly sanitized before my belongings are placed inside?
– How often are you sanitizing high touch areas in the truck?
– Do you have a cancellation or rescheduling policy?
– How are you ensuring your employees are not sick prior to coming into contact with my belongings?
If You Plan to Donate, Call Ahead
Usually, you would use moving as an excuse to declutter and donate old items to Goodwill or Salvation Army. But the donation rules have changed drastically during this pandemic. If you plan to declutter while you pack, call your local place of donation and see if they’re accepting donations. They may even require you to take additional steps to sanitize your donated items.
Use New Moving Supplies
It’s not unusual to borrow boxes from friends or get them from places like Craigslist when you’re moving your home. But that is not something I would recommend at this time. All your moving supplies should be brand new. And if you can, use cardboard boxes and coronavirus has a lifespan of 1 day on cardboard and 3 days on plastic. The more items you have packed before the movers get there, the better.
Plan Your Services Ahead
Things have slowed down quite a bit with coronavirus, which makes it even more important for you to plan prior to your move. Your services like gas, electric, internet and cable may be backed up. Calling ahead to schedule installation or activation of services will alleviate the stress of potentially having to wait weeks for someone to come out and set up your essentials.
Work with a Relocation Specialist in Ladera Ranch
Moving during a pandemic can be hectic, but working with an experienced realtor like Rosemary Hieber will help make the process as smooth as possible. With years helping couples, retirees and families move to Orange County, you want Rosemary in your corner when it’s time to move. With $280 million sold locally and personally, Rosemary will help you find the perfect home for you during the coronavirus pandemic. Contact her today and remember, “It Doesn’t Cost More to Work with the Best!”