Tips for a Stress-Free Move During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Blog posted On May 20, 2020

Moving under any circumstances can be stressful.  You have to pack and organize all of your belongings, you may be spending a night or two without assembled furniture, and you may have to coordinate with helpful friends and professional movers to get your things to your new home.  Moving during the coronavirus pandemic adds another layer of stress as you try to complete your move safely while practicing social distancing. 

If you’re moving soon there are ways to stay safe and not be stressed.  Zillow contributor, Frances Thomas, outlined these five tips for a safe and stress-free move.

Do as Much Yourself as Possible

Don’t throw your back out dragging your couch by yourself but try to do as much as you can by yourself.  Packing ahead of time, moving small items on your own, and planning ahead are all ways you can reduce your need for outside help. 

Limit Close Contact

When it is time to bring in some help, limit your close contact.  Many moving companies will give you a quote online or over the phone if you provide a list of your items and their dimensions.  When it’s time to move, either arrange to be out of the home or keep a six-foot distance. 

Keep it Clean

The most important thing you can do is sanitize everything that you can before and after the moving process.  Keep frequently touched doorknobs or surfaces clean.  Wear masks, gloves, and booties, and ask your movers or helpers to do the same, maybe even keep extra supplies on hand in case someone does not have protective gear.  Pack soap and paper towels last and unpack them first so that you have a handwashing station in the home you are moving from and your new home.  Consider buying new boxes.  Studies show coronavirus can live on cardboard for up to 24 hours and also survive on plastic and other surfaces.  See if you can purchase boxes through your moving company or buy new boxes online before your move.    If anyone in your household or anyone you’ve come in contact with is experiencing coronavirus, reschedule your moving plans.  It’s better to keep everyone safe.

Let Your Neighbors Know

You want to limit your close contact with others, and your neighbors probably do too.  Before your move, give your neighbors a socially distant heads-up that movers will be coming in and out of your house for a few hours.  Especially if you live in an apartment or anywhere else where you are in close proximity to your neighbors. 

Use this Opportunity to Give Back

Many Americans are experiencing financial hardship because of coronavirus closures.  Moving is always a great opportunity to donate gently used items, especially now.  Clean out your closets and your pantries and consider donating to an organization that is helping those impacted by the coronavirus. 

Moving can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be extra stressful because of coronavirus.  Plan ahead, limit your exposure, and keep it clean for a safe and stress-free move. 

Sources: Zillow