Moving During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Most Common Questions Answered

There is risk associated with pretty much anything you do during a viral pandemic. Going on a walk. Hitting up a drive-thru. Getting groceries. Every time you encounter another person or something another person has recently touched, there is a chance you will be exposed to COVID-19. Although it’s low, moving during the coronavirus pandemic poses the same risk. Many of you have questions about how to move safely while abiding by Stay At Home Orders and social distancing.

Some of the most common questions we’re getting about moving include:

• Is it safe to move during the COVID-19 pandemic?
• Are moving companies shut down?
• What safety precautions are movers taking?
• What safety measures should I take while moving?
• Can I still donate items I no longer need?
• Will I still be able to purchase furniture?

Here are our best answers to these common questions about moving during the coronavirus pandemic.

Is it safe to move during the COVID-19 pandemic?

The short answer is yes. If you follow the CDC guidelines and federal regulations, it is safe to move at this time. However, people over the age of 60 and those with pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions should cancel or postpone their move. Many moving companies are being more flexible with their cancellation policies and are allowing people to reschedule. If you have reserved equipment or booked a moving service, we recommend calling or visiting their website to verify your reservation or make changes as soon as possible.

Are moving companies shut down?

In most states, movers have been deemed an “essential service,” and the majority of moving companies are still open for business. Individual owners have the right to shut down if they desire. It would be wise to contact the moving companies near you to verify their current business hours. 

On a positive note, movers are considered “low-risk” for the transmission of the coronavirus. Typically moving crews only serve 1-2 clients per day and are able to maintain social distancing while they work. 

What safety precautions are movers taking?

Movers are in the same boat as the rest of us. They’re learning how to conduct business in a new way. Frequent hand washing. No physical contact. We’re all getting used to new guidelines. 

Here are some safety measures moving companies are taking to manage the coronavirus risk:

• Providing virtual estimates and payment options
• Frequent hand washing and hand sanitizing
• Wearing gloves and masks (when safe)
• Social distancing staying at least 6 feet away from customers
• Limiting visitors/guests

What safety measures should I take while moving?

Whether you plan to hire a moving company or enlist a handful of friends to help, keep hygiene products readily available. Get a few boxes of gloves, keep soap and paper towels by all sinks, and put hand sanitizer by the door. If you are unable to find these items, let your movers know so they can bring their own. 

Another thing you can do to prevent transmission of the coronavirus is use new moving boxes. Don’t recycle or borrow moving boxes, unless they’re your own. Studies have shown that the coronavirus can live on cardboard for up to 24 hours. It would be safest to buy new boxes or use plastic tubs and disinfect containers as possible.

Before you start unpacking, it’s important that you deep clean and disinfect your new home. Wipe down all surfaces. Although this step might slow you down, it is worth it to protect your loved ones.

Can I still donate items I no longer need?

Many thrift stores, resale shops, and collection centers are still open and accepting donations. However, hours and drop off policies have likely changed. Call ahead before dropping off any donations. Unsolicited drop offs are often considered unusable.

Will I still be able to purchase furniture?

Since most brick and mortar stores are closed, or have reduced hours, the bulk of shopping is taking place online. Businesses are overloaded with deliveries. Any furniture or other items you order online may take weeks to arrive. We recommend ordering your essential items early and waiting to order any non-essential furniture items until the demand for deliveries slows down. 

For more information about safe practices while moving during the coronavirus pandemic, give us a call or reach out on our website. We’d love to help!

Here’s a note from the American Moving & Storage Association.

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