Some of us had our move-outs planned way before the pandemic. Some of us were awaiting the upcoming weekend to begin the process, while the others were waiting for the summers to start.
But, of course, the pandemic did not permit us so. Those of us who could delay the move altogether (i.e., owned the property) opted to do so. But those who couldn’t came face to face with a grave issue: how to move out safely during this deadly pandemic?
Our post today is particularly for you guys, i.e., those who found themselves dealing with safety concerns while moving out. Here are five handy tips and reminders to help you get through the process without contracting the virus.
#1. Disinfect Thoroughly
Firstly, you need to eliminate and eradicate all germs in both places, i.e., your former home and your new home. Doing this will make the process safer for you and all other people involved.
For DIY cleaning, we recommend allocating at least 3-4 days. You can use EPA-registered cleaning agents like CleanSmart, Lysol Disinfecting Wipes, Germ Away, etc. Or if these aren’t available, you can opt for alcohol, bleaching agents, soaps, as well as supporting equipment like gloves, mop, paper towels, clean rags, etc. Make sure you frequently use hand sanitizer while you clean and keep a mask on.
If office work has you occupied, you could hire a professional cleaning crew to get the job done. Just make sure you let the cleaned house rest or ventilate for 3-4 days after they clean it. For your former house, ask the cleaning crew to pay a visit once you’ve left the place. In this way, you will come into contact with them.
#2. Hire a reliable Moving company
Back when the world was free of corona virus, it would’ve been up to you whether you would like to get some professional assistance while you move out or not. You were to decide whether it is convenient or not.
Today, things are a bit different. The process of moving things will expose you to the external environment extensively. If you choose to do it all on your own, it might take you weeks, which would mean days of exposure to the unsafe air. The burden of handling it all alone may have you frustrated at points, and you may lack in following the standard SOPs.
For that very reason, it is highly recommendable that you hire reliable movers. They will get your things packed and moved in minimal time with complete safety and without risking your health or theirs. To assess their reliability, you can read the reviews of their clientele online.
#3. Acquire a Moving Quote Virtually
Along with reliability, you will need to assess whether the company’s service charges fit your budget or not. For that, you will need to get an estimate. Naturally, an estimator will need to visit your place for this. And this, in turn, will put both you and the estimator in danger because you never know who carries what kind of germs.
To cut out the whole trouble, we recommend getting a virtual quote. Discuss the idea with your estimator, settle for a suitable platform like Zoom or Skype, and then give a virtual room-to-room survey of your house to the estimator on a video call. You may need a tape to measure stuff that the estimator asks for.
#4. Make Use of Fresh Packaging
Whether you’re moving out on your own and hiring professional movers to help you out, we recommend using fresh packaging. Do not buy old cardboard boxes from stores or warehouses. They could be carrying the COVID-19 germs or microbes that could weaken your immune system.
Instead, contact reliable and reputable companies like VerdeTrader and get yourself spacious and sturdy boxes for packing stuff. You could even tell the hired company about your packaging preferences. So, they do not reuse their old cardboard boxes.
#5. Practice Standard Safety Protocols
Again, here’s one of the most important tips of all: do not forget to wear the mask, use hand sanitizer, and continuously disinfect moved goods with a spray of disinfectant liquid.
Greet and interact with the movers at a distance. Avoid handshakes or any other form of physical contact. Since corona virus is airborne, maintaining a distance of six feet is a must.
During the whole process, avoid touching your face. Do not share food and schedule regular reminders of washing hands and disinfecting surfaces.
Final Words
Lastly, keep a close check on yourself and others. If you feel a little sick or see someone coughing, halt the process there and then. Get yourself tested for the virus and continue only when tested negative. Even if it’s not COVID, we’d suggest you prioritize rest. You know, the invested time and money are important, but nothing’s more important than the lives involved. So, be careful, be human. Good luck!
