{"id":10225,"date":"2020-12-09T09:30:25","date_gmt":"2020-12-09T17:30:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wcmovingandstorage.com\/?p=10225"},"modified":"2020-12-09T09:30:25","modified_gmt":"2020-12-09T17:30:25","slug":"moving-during-covid-19","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wcmovingandstorage.com\/moving-blog\/moving-during-covid-19\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Move Cross-Country Safely During COVID-19"},"content":{"rendered":"

As if moving cross-country weren’t stressful enough, now you also have to deal with COVID-19. Don\u2019t worry, though \u2014 it\u2019s entirely possible to move safely and successfully during the pandemic. You just need to arm yourself with information and tips and take appropriate precautions. Having trained, professional movers, like West Coast Moving (who\u2019s also invested in your and our team\u2019s safety), is also a huge help.<\/p>\n

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Pandemic-Specific Moving Safety<\/h2>\n

Because coronavirus is a socially transmissible illness, moving safely during the pandemic is a collaborative effort. We need to help one another protect our health and wellbeing.<\/p>\n

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Our Safety-First Policy<\/h3>\n

On our part, we have established stringent operating procedures<\/a> based on local guidelines and CDC recommendations<\/a>. All of our staff and movers wear face masks (that fully cover their mouths and noses); our movers also wear gloves. Furthermore, they maintain a six-foot separation from you and each other. We adhere to these best practices the whole time we\u2019re working with you \u2014 during the initial consultation, when packing up your belongings<\/a>, and as we\u2019re moving you<\/a> out of your old home and into the new one.<\/p>\n

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COVID-19 Safety: We\u2019re In This Together<\/h3>\n

We ask that you follow safety protocols as well when engaging with our staff and movers. Proper face covering is required when you\u2019re at our office and should be worn when our movers are in your home. The CDC also suggests opening your windows to increase ventilation<\/a>, while we\u2019re in your home packing and moving your possessions, can lower COVID-19 risks.<\/p>\n

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Safe Travels Amid Coronavirus<\/h3>\n

Moving across the country likely means you\u2019ll be traveling during the pandemic. If you\u2019re able to make that trek by car, that\u2019s probably your best option. Just be mindful to use good judgment and coronavirus safety precautions when you\u2019re in restaurants, hotels, etc. en route. If you do have to fly or take public transportation, the CDC offers these smart travel during COVID-19 tips<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"West<\/p>\n

General Moving Safety<\/h2>\n

You\u2019ve got all the bases covered when it comes to minimizing the risks of getting or transmitting coronavirus during your move process. This is critical. But, pro tips on general moving safety \u2014 for both you and your belongings \u2014 are essential, too.<\/p>\n

Top 6 Tips For A Safer Move For You And Your Things<\/h3>\n

1. Take your time.<\/b><\/h4>\n

Moving isn\u2019t a speed challenge. Take the time that\u2019s needed to properly wrap or pack, lift, and move items. Slow down when stairs, uneven or slippery ground or tight corners are involved.<\/p>\n

2. Leverage the right tools and supplies.<\/b><\/h4>\n

Maybe Hercules wouldn\u2019t need a dolly, but you do. Moving heavy, big, or otherwise unwieldy items safely often requires using trollies or carts. Padding delicate pieces, like china <\/a>or picture frames, can prevent breakage. Wrapping things with sharp corners or protruding angles in professional moving blankets \u2014 and better yet: then in shrinkwrap \u2014 can safeguard them and your home\u2019s surfaces. Packing your belongings into sturdy boxes or cartons is a necessity. If needed, securely lash down objects to or within your car or moving vehicle. Speaking of vehicles, make sure the one you\u2019re using to move is rated to safely carry the amount of weight you\u2019re loading into it.<\/p>\n

3. Pack thoughtfully. <\/b><\/h4>\n

Try to pack lightly and distribute the weight. To the degree possible, avoid making boxes insanely heavy or overpacked. Ideally, it won’t feel like some boxes are filled with anvils while others are stuffed with feathers. It can also help to empty out the contents of furniture, safes<\/a>, etc. And treat electronics<\/a> with care, too.<\/p>\n

4. Lift (and lower) wisely.<\/b><\/h4>\n

Maybe you\u2019ve heard the saying \u201cBend with your legs, not with your back<\/a>.\u201d It\u2019s solid advice for both pickup and putting down heavy or awkward items. Splitting the weight \u2014 buddy lifting! \u2014 can also be a prudent strategy. And before you hoist anything, make sure you have a firm, comfortable grip. If your grip starts to slip, set whatever you\u2019re carrying down before readjusting your hold and continuing. Know your limits; if something\u2019s just beyond your capabilities<\/a>: get help.<\/p>\n

5. Make way.<\/b><\/h4>\n

We know moving can be a messy endeavor. But it\u2019s worth the effort to clear unobstructed paths where you\u2019ll be moving boxes, furniture, etc. It\u2019s an obvious way to minimize damaging your things, home, or self. No one likes stepping on the serrated packing tape roll or tripping over that pile of extra boxes \u2014 especially with hands full of your prized possessions!<\/p>\n

6. Dress appropriately.<\/b><\/h4>\n

There\u2019s no official moving \u201cuniform\u201d but sensible, durable clothing is a must. Wear clothing that can take a bit of a beating and that you don\u2019t care if it gets stained or scuffed. (Better tears in your jeans than cuts on your legs.) Pants and long-sleeved tops may offer protection from scrapes, dirt, and sun. Opt for sturdy closed-toed shoes that offer support, stability, and sure-footing. You may find that gloves or a back brace are in order, too.<\/p>\n

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More Moving Safety Resources<\/h3>\n

Looking for more suggestions on how to pull off a move like a safety master? Read the articles below for sensible techniques to get you and your stuff from here to there as safely as possible.<\/p>\n