The coronavirus or COVID-19 has changed the lives of millions of people around the world and led us to throw normal routines out of the window. You can put many aspects of daily life on hold without much problem, however, when it comes to relocating or moving it's not always possible to wait. You might have to relocate for the sake of a job, to look after an elderly relative, or because you've got to downsize.

Is it possible to move during a pandemic? Are moving services still available? What can you do to stay safe? This guide will answer these questions and a few more besides.

What is a pandemic?

The definition of a pandemic is:

An epidemic that occurs worldwide, or over a very wide area, crosses international barriers, and usually affects many people.

We are currently in the middle of the COVID-19, but this is not the only pandemic that has taken place or will occur in the future. I have written this article to provide helpful advice for people who want to move during the coronavirus pandemic. However, the information will be just as relevant should a pandemic occur in the future.

What is social distancing?

Social distancing is one of the best defences against the spread of COVID-19 and any other highly contagious virus. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP), the guidelines for social distancing to be effective are as follows:

• Stay six feet away from other people, not including those people you live with

• No gathering in groups

• Avoid crowded areas and mass gatherings

By limiting close contact with anyone outside your immediate household, you're mitigating the risk of coming into contact with the virus. This is particularly important because COVID-19 carriers are asymptomatic. This means that they could be carrying the virus without being aware.  

Should I consider waiting?

When it comes to moving, it's not always possible to put your plans on hold until the pandemic is over. Non-essential businesses have been ordered to close, but authorities consider moving as essential, which means moving services are operating in most states.

If there is an option to put your move on hold, the advice is to postpone your move. Before you make any firm plans, check with the authorities in the state where you currently live and are moving to. Closures do vary from state to state, so doing your own research is crucial.

Are moving services still available?

At the time of writing this article, moving services are still available and there have been no notable shutdowns of services. That being said, it is down to individual companies to decide whether they want to continue providing moving services, so it's always best to check first hand.

If you've already scheduled your move and haven't heard anything to the contrary, it's probably safe to assume the service is still going to be available. Nevertheless, a quick call to confirm is advisable.

For those of you who are planning to move a few months in the future, it's difficult to predict accurately what's going to be available. The best course of action is to keep up with the latest information and do your research before making any firm plans.  

Should I drive, fly, or take the train?

Whatever way you travel, there is going to be some risk of infection. However, traveling by car, for example, is going to put you into contact with more people, thereby increasing the risk.

A much safer option is to take the train or fly, depending on your timeframe and budget. You can move all your belongings with a moving company, and you can transport your vehicle door-to-door with the help of a reliable auto transport company. Transporting a vehicle using an auto transport company is easier and more affordable than you think. They can pick it up from right outside your door, if it's safe and legal to do so, and deliver it to your new home. Car shipping companies follow strict hygiene procedures, and you can make your booking online.

What precautions should I take during the move?

It's always sensible to plan your move carefully, but this is even more relevant during a pandemic. If you keep one step ahead, make sure you've got all the necessary supplies, and leave enough time to pack and get ready for the move you're doing as much as you can to stay safe. During a pandemic, you should take the following steps:

Keep in touch with the moving company

You must do this so that you can confirm your reservations and check what are the best practices for your moving day. Moving companies are taking all the necessary precautions to safeguard their clients and employees, but you need to know what these are in advance. You may, for example, need to provide a separate area where the movers can wash and sanitise their hands.

Purchase all your supplies together

To keep your trips to the store to a minimum, make sure you know exactly what you need for your move. There are plenty of online calculators you can use to estimate your requirements, based on the occupants of the house and the number of rooms. If you're not sure, it's always best to buy extra.

Clean as you pack

Think about all the items in your home and when you cleaned them last. As you're packing, take the opportunity to clean and sanitize your belongings. This includes wiping them down with disinfectant.

Finish packing 24 hours before the movers are due to arrive

Viruses can last a long time on surfaces. The coronavirus, for example, is thought to survive for up to 24 hours on cardboard boxes. Your movers will wear gloves, but it's still good practice to have them ready and sitting untouched for at least 24 hours before the movers arrive.

Top tips for moving during a pandemic

• Let your movers know if anyone experiences symptoms: This allows your movers to put additional protocols in place to protect their employees.

• Provide hygiene products for everyone: Provide soap and paper towels by the sink and hand sanitizer by the door for anyone entering or exiting your property.

• If you need extra boxes, buy them: The coronavirus can live for up to 24 hours on cardboard, so now is not the time to use free or recycled moving boxes.

• Cancel your move if possible: This is particularly relevant for people in a high-risk group, such as the over 60s and people with pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.

Where can I find the latest information about moving during coronavirus?

For general updates about COVID-19, visit www.coronavirus.com. Move.org is another useful source of information relating to moving during coronavirus.

Conclusion

If you're smart during a pandemic, there's no reason why you shouldn't move. Follow all standard pandemic rules and make sure everyone involved applies them to your move.