Moving is never an easy decision but it’s always an important one. Perhaps, you want to downsize, move to an area that costs a bit less, or after months cooked up in quarantine, just want to try something new. Regardless of why you’re doing it, moving in the midst of a global pandemic can seem frustrating. It can be hard to keep up with these fluctuating restrictions and readjust your plans. However, it doesn’t have to be anxiety-inducing! Check out these tips on how to safely and seamlessly move during a global pandemic.
Plan Ahead With Your Movers
Before the day of your move, reach out to your moving company and discuss safety practices and details. In the age of COVID-19, moving companies have embraced safeguards and restrictions to ensure the health and safety of their clients and employees. By discussing these safeguards in advance, you will know what to expect. If anyone in your family is experiencing coronavirus symptoms, tell your movers as soon as possible. They may not cancel and just choose to implement more safeguards. Just try to be as transparent as possible.
Downsize, Downsize, Downsize
When packing up your belongings, you should do the Marie Kondo method. The Japanese organization expert recommends sifting through your clothes, shoes, and other belongings and disposing of anything that doesn’t “spark joy.” If you haven’t worn something in multiple months, it’s probably time to let it go. In addition to decreasing clutter, it’s also a valuable lesson. To reduce stress, organize the rest of your belongings into two groups — what you will be packing and what you will be placing in storage. This way, you don’t have to make hectic last-minute decisions.
Research The COVID-19 Restrictions Of Your New City
During this stage of the pandemic, cities and counties across the United States have different sets of COVID-19 restrictions. For instance, while some places allow outdoor dining, other cities only have pick-up and take out. Though this uncertainty can be stressful, knowing in advance will help you prepare. Before moving, take a look at your new city’s government website to see which businesses are opened or closed.
Prepare Your Healthcare Plan
It’s critical that you set up your healthcare plan before you move. Research local hospitals so you’re prepared just in case of an emergency. To reduce non-emergency trips to the hospital, many doctors are asking their patients to do virtual consultations. Are you worried about finding a new pharmacy to get your regular prescriptions? Telehealth companies offer online doctor consultations and treatments that range from birth control to acne treatments.
Complete Your Packing
Just so everything is as safe as possible, make sure you have packed up all your boxes for at least a day before the movers arrive and don’t touch them. Though the movers will be wearing gloves, this will minimize exposure. Additionally, buy some hand sanitizer for your movers and have it by the door. Always wear your mask when you’re around people outside of your household. If for some reason you can’t get hygiene supplies in time, just tell your movers so they can bring some.
The best way to have a seamless, stress-free move during a global pandemic is to plan in advance. If you’re patient with your family members and movers, you can reduce your anxiety. Just remember to prioritize your health and safety and tell people immediately if you’re experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. Regardless of what’s going on in our lives, we are all getting used to this new reality together. Moving is the start of a thrilling new chapter — get excited!
