Previously, we discussed best practices for preparing for a move during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today we will discuss best practices for moving. As we have noted, now is a great time to purchase a home if you are in a financial position to do so: mortgage rates are low and there isn’t much competition for the available houses. For those who were in a position to purchase during this disaster, it is important to move safely.
On moving day, it is critical that you remember we are in the middle of a pandemic, which means you want to involve as few people as possible in your move to reduce your risk of exposure to COVID-19. As a result, it would be wise to designate a single individual to operate as the overseer of the move itself. Most moving companies send a “foreman” on moving day for just that purpose, but don’t be afraid to ask them to do extra (just remember to tip them a little more considering their utility under the circumstances).
Another smart idea is to have your belongings delivered to your new house about 3 days before your family moves in (the 3-day period operates to reduce the risk that the virus is still alive on the items you just moved. If this isn’t possible, pack a few boxes with the “essentials” (disinfectant spray, linens, phone charges, a change of clothes, etc.), and mark it as such. At a bare minimum, drop the essential box off at your new home 3 days prior to moving, and avoid opening the boxes that moved the same day as you for another 72 hours.
Finally, once you get to your new home, make sure to disinfect every surface the movers may have come into contact with, while wearing masks and increasing airflow with open windows. This means doorknobs, cabinets, counters, and the like. If you live in a multi-unit location with elevators, make sure to reserve an elevator in advance to further reduce any risk of exposure you might have.
At the Chernov Team we understand that knowledge is power, and knowledge of how to avoid exposure to COVID-19 while moving is powerful knowledge indeed. At the Chernov Team we know that whoever comes to the table most prepared leaves with the most, and the Chernov Team always leaves the table with the most.
