Moving during a pandemic

It’s fair to say Covid is going to be with us for much longer than anyone hoped or expected. It has changed the way we go about life in so many ways, which includes moving house. As we have to continue to live with it as we head into 2022, we’ve put together a guide about how to stay safe when moving during a pandemic.

From big teams to isolation

Before the pandemic, moving was a team effort. We invited our friends and family to help us pack and get the job done. Now we’ve become conditioned to working in bubbles or small isolated groups, which isn’t the easiest way to move house. However, with a few simple precautions, moving doesn’t have to be difficult and can be done safely in this new normal.

Wear a mask indoors

If you’re working with people outside of your normal circle, wear a mask while you’re indoors. For the best protection, wear a medical mask designed to be breathable and effective throughout the day.

As moving is hard work, wearing a mask will have an impact on your work. If you’re not getting as much air, you’ll tire faster than normal. We always recommend that people take regular breaks to avoid fatigue, but now it’s more important than ever. Take breaks, step outside, take off your mask and get some fresh air. If there are other people around, remember the rules around physical distancing and stay two metres apart.

Work in separate teams

If you have friends or professional movers helping you pack, work in separate rooms. Doing one room at a time is also an efficient way to work, ensuring you pack all the items from that room in the same boxes.

You’ll need to clean your house for the new owners or occupants, but don’t make it your last task. Clean as you work, wiping down surfaces and high contact areas as you complete packing each box.

Safety during transit

Depending on how far you’re moving, you’ll need to plan for your safety in transit. If you’re moving across town, this will have little impact on your move. If you’re moving interstate or to another city you’ll need to plan carefully to minimise contact with other people.

Remember to wear your mask and to stay distanced from other people. Plan where you’ll stop for rests, refreshments and meals. If you need accommodation, pre-book your motel or hotel and try to avoid making any unplanned stops or detours along the way.

Make sure you have refreshments in the car such as snacks and water. Keep a bottle of hand sanitiser handy and use it every time you return to the car after making a stop.

Unpacking

Safety is important at the other end too. Try to arrive at your new home before the moving truck gets there. This will give you the chance to air the house or put air conditioning units on to circulate the air. Even if the house has been cleaned, wipe down all surfaces with a disinfectant cleaner.

Remember to wear a mask when the truck arrives and to keep your distance. Let your movers go about their work without getting in the way. If you’re getting help with the unpacking, work in separate rooms with the same precautions as when you were packing.

Moving in this new normal looks a bit different, but it doesn’t need to be difficult or unsafe. Remember these simple precautions and you’ll be able to move your family as safely as possible.