7 Steps for a Safe Move During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The year 2020 was record-breaking for the housing market. In December, the National Association of Realtors projected 2020 home sales for the year would total about 5.7 million — the highest level in 14 years. Existing U.S. home sales experienced five straight months of growth last year, according to Reuters, and some experts are already predicting that housing sales in 2021 will outpace 2020 levels. In fact, during the first week of 2021, U.S. long-term mortgage rates reached new record lows.

With a booming housing market and about 33 percent of the U.S. workforce still working from home, millions of Americans are moving. However, the pandemic poses unprecedented obstacles to the moving process and you will need to plan accordingly. Here are seven steps you should take to protect yourself when moving in the era of COVID-19:

PRIOR TO MOVING DAY:

1. Ask your moving company about its COVID-19 protocols.

You will need to find a moving company that will follow all appropriate guidelines by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health agencies, and that may require some research on your end. Look for what different moving companies will do if an employee gets sick. How will the company minimize in-person interactions with you? What happens if you get sick close to the move-in day?

Safety has always been our number one priority at Armstrong Relocation – Raleigh, and our COVID-19 protocols reflect that commitment. We ask all employees, contractors and crew members to limit travel, stay home if sick and always ensure our move teams are equipped with proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). We also ask our customers additional questions about recent travel or exposure before we perform any in-home service deliveries. These protocols ensure all involved with the move remain safe and healthy.

2. Choose a virtual move survey to minimize in-person interactions.

A home survey offers an opportunity for a moving company to develop a customized moving estimate and plan for you. Instead of opting for an in-house walkthrough, a virtual survey offers a quick, easy and safe way to get your quote and custom moving plan. For virtual move surveys at Armstrong Relocation – Raleigh, a mobile app will connect you to an Armstrong representative, who will take care of the details so your quote is accurate and your move is as stress-free as possible.

3. Pack in new boxes or materials you already have.

The CDC reports that COVID-19 particles may last days on surfaces.  If choosing to pack your own belongings, be sure to purchase new boxes for your goods. If packing, isn’t on your to do list, no worries! Hiring a full-service mover like Armstrong Relocation – Raleigh enables your belongings to be packed by professionals who will take all necessary precautions to ensure nothing is contaminated.

4. Clean and declutter.

Many sellers are expected to clean their home before they move out, and during a pandemic, this step is especially important. The CDC recommends wearing disposable gloves and cleaning your home surfaces with soap and water, then disinfectant. If you have any clutter remaining or objects you are not bringing with you to your new home, donating goods  is an option. Call your local Goodwill to ask about how the pandemic has affected their hours and how donations are received.

5. Stick to your household and monitor any symptoms.

Leading up to the move, maintain distance from anyone outside your household as much as possible. During this time be sure to also monitor yourself and your household for any COVID-19 symptoms. If you start to develop symptoms, call your moving company to discuss the best options for your move.

ON MOVING DAY:

6. Wear a mask and stay six feet apart.

Whether in the warehouse or on the truck, our Armstrong crew members are equipped with the proper PPE such as masks.

By wearing a mask, you are protecting others as well as yourself from the risk of COVID-19 transmission, according to the CDC. The most effective masks are ones that have two or more layers of washable, breathable fabric, fit tightly over your nose and mouth with no gaps on the sides of your face, and do not have exhalation valves or vents which allow virus particles to escape. In addition to wearing a mask, you should also stay six feet apart from the movers as much as possible.

7. Keep windows and doors open for increased circulation.

Bringing more air from the outside into your home is another precaution you can take to protect yourself and those around you from COVID-19. If you are able to do so, open your windows and keep your doors open for the duration of the move. Ceiling fans can also help improve airflow.

At Armstrong Relocation – Raleigh, we believe that we are stronger together, especially now. We are dedicated to giving you exceptional quality of service, as we continue to follow and monitor COVID-19 guidance. Let us help you safely transition to your new home — call us today!