The coronavirus pandemic threw a spanner in the works on virtually every aspect of our lives. A lot regarding how we go on about our daily lives has changed since the virus gripped the US earlier in the year.

As the months have worn on, we’ve done what humans do and tried to adapt to this new normal. The severity of the situation has gradually eased from what we witnessed initially, and people are slowly looking to get their lives back – although it won’t be business as usual from now on.

Covid-19 is still very much with us, and the best we can do for ourselves and our families is to continue observing the health guidelines promoted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

However, despite the warnings to avoid movement as much as possible in a bid to flatten the curve, sometimes you have no choice when moving house.

It’s probably something you had planned months in advance and can no longer put it off. Or probably your lease is expiring.

You could also be planning to downsize at a time when most families are aiming to scale back on their spending, sometimes forced by circumstances such as job loss or having to contend with half pay at your current place of work. Or you want to cost-share for financial reasons.

Whatever the case, it’s important to remember that moving has become a more sensitive issue during the coronavirus pandemic, with health precautions needing to be maintained on both your part and the moving company’s.

Here are some top local moving tips that can help you navigate the treacherous waters of Covid-19 when moving during the pandemic.

Opt for a virtual moving quote

Moving starts with getting an estimate from the moving company. A good mover should be able to provide you with options with regard to the moving estimate.

Most movers typically have three options. A physical quote that involves coming to your house in person, or a virtual quote that can either be in the form of video (think Facetime, Zoom, Skype etc.) or done through a phone call.

At a time when you’re looking to reduce your contact with the outside world, the most reasonable alternative is to get a virtual estimate. In particular, opt for a video estimate as it’s more accurate compared to getting a quote via phone call.

Screen your mover carefully

Before Covid 19, mover screening was a critical aspect of moving, as you sought to understand what makes them a better alternative to the competition and why you should take your business to them.

When Covid came, it added another layer to your mover qualification process. Now, you need to ask the moving company what they are doing differently to ensure the safety of their customers, not to mention staff.

So, when evaluating the movers, ask about the safety precautions they’re taking to help stave off the spread of the virus.

Opt for DIY whenever possible

A full-service move – whereby the moving company does everything for you, from packing to unloading and unpacking at the other end – may be expensive, but it’s a great time-saver and minimizes most of the stress associated with moving.

However, opt to do some of the tasks yourself during this period to minimize interaction with the outside world. Packing and unpacking, for example.

Social distancing and washing hands

The actual move is the tricky aspect when moving during Covid 19 due to the interaction with the moving crew, not to mention the change of premises from your current place to the new one.

When the movers arrive, make sure to observe social distancing rules throughout the duration of the move.

Opt for non-contact methods of greeting (it’s understandable at this time so it won’t seem rude) and washing of hands is a must.

Disinfecting post-move

When unpacking, clean and disinfect furniture and other belongings, and get rid of all packing materials.

Considering this is a local move, we would also recommend (time permitting) disinfecting the new house in advance of the move. If you cannot make it to go in person before moving day, you can arrange this with the building manager.

After the movers leave, you should also disinfect again, paying particular attention to the areas and spots that are in most contact – think doorknobs, handles, sinks, the bathroom maybe, etc.

That way, you can settle at your new home in peace, knowing you’ve done what needs to be done.