Moving is stressful under normal circumstances. Factor in a pandemic in addition to our everyday anxiety and it can almost be too much to bear. Moving now will be tough but not impossible. We wanted to gather some tips for navigating this difficult time and make moving a bit more manageable. We’ve also included practical tips to ensure your health and the health of your movers during Covid-19.
Don’t Minimize Just Yet
While many suggest getting rid of items you don’t need or want prior to a move, don’t feel pressured to do that this time around. During difficult times, our objects tend to comfort and make us feel a bit more secure. If you’re feeling overwhelmed about what to take and what not to take, move it and decide later when you feel ready. Do what you need to get through this.
Ask for Help
If you need help, ask for it. While a lot of us feel like we should be able to handle hardship on our own, this is not a time to go at it alone. It’s important to keep a distance and practice precaution as you move during a pandemic, but there are ways to do it safely. Have people you trust help you pack while wearing masks and gloves, or secure a moving company to do the heavy lifting. Even emotional support can be extremely necessary and welcome during this time.
Be Kind to Yourself
While moving efficiently benefits from organization and set goals, it’s okay if you don’t meet every single one of them this time around. So what if you didn’t pack up your closets or disassemble your bed when you thought you would. Start the moving process early, take your time, and don’t fixate on the small stuff. Get the rest you need and chip away at the project bit by bit. It’s okay to not to be completely prepared for the moment. Be kind to yourself.
Some Tips for Moving During Covid-19
- Make sure you are using new moving materials when you prep and pack for your move. Before Covid-19, we would encourage this option. It’s both cost efficient and environmentally friendly to reuse materials. For your safety, we’d definitely advise against it.
- In addition, ask your movers what precautions they are taking to ensure limited contact during a move. Do they have gloves and masks? Double check the payment method as some aren’t accepting cash at the moment.
- Be sure to have hand sanitizer or wipes on hand for the move day and keep a good distance apart from your crew after your walk through. Some people leave their move out location and wait at the delivery.
- Opt out of any packing or unpacking services to limit exposure.
- Above all, delay your move if you are feeling sick!
These are unusual and distressing times. Move safely, be kind to yourself, and ask for help when you need it.