As is the case with most things these days, moving in the year 2022 feels a little different than it did in years past. While confirmed cases of COVID-19 continue to decline and restrictions are loosening, the ramifications of the pandemic are sure to be felt for years and in many different ways. Prior to COVID-19, much of preparing to move consisted of finding a moving company with reasonable rates and good reviews—but today, the process is more involved.
If you have an upcoming relocation and you’re not sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Read on as we recap five things you must do to prep for your move in 2022.
Take full advantage of the internet
This is probably something you did even before the pandemic, but it’s taken on a new level of importance in 2022. As you prep to move, be sure to do as much as you can online or over the phone. This might include everything from virtual home tours of properties you’re interested in buying to completing a video survey for a virtual moving quote.
Pick a moving company that prioritizes sanitation
If you choose to hire a company to help you move into your new place, you’ll quickly find that there are plenty of options out there. As you evaluate moving companies, it’s imperative that you ask questions about the company’s sanitation policies and procedures. COVID-19 is still highly contagious, and employees from the moving company you select should practice national health guidelines and standards—including wearing a mask—at all times.
Have cleaning supplies and disinfectants available
Even those that are diligent about safety precautions can still share or spread germs, which is why it’s essential that you keep cleaning supplies and disinfectant at the ready. Make sure you’re washing your hands often throughout the day (your movers should be doing this too) and continue to disinfect frequently touched areas like doorknobs and countertops. It’s also well within your rights as a customer to ask the moving company employees to stick to one bathroom and to limit any eating or drinking to well-ventilated or outside areas.
Limit physical contact
Proper sanitation is an important step in reducing the chance of the virus spreading during your move—but it’s not the only important step. During your move, it’s in everyone’s best interest (yours and the movers) if you limit physical contact. If possible, that means designating one person to be in charge of the move while the others spend the day elsewhere. The designee who remains in the house to answer the movers’ questions should pick a spot in a sparsely filled room or a section of the home where the movers won’t be spending much time. In doing so, it should be easier to avoid making unnecessary physical contact.
Clean and disinfect your new place
So, the big move occurred and you’re in your new place. Unfortunately, the work is not done yet. Before unpacking, you should clean furniture and surfaces before unboxing your belongings. If your schedule and budget allow for it, consider hiring a professional cleaning crew to adequately disinfect your new home in advance of the movers arriving with your things.
We understand that the idea of safely moving in 2022 can be a daunting thought—but it doesn’t have to be. By doing these five simple things, you stand a good chance of keeping your health in good condition and your move stress-free and straightforward.
