Whether you've been planning on moving for a while or are just now considering it because of the many changes brought about by COVID-19, you may now be faced with moving during a pandemic. This is an unprecedented situation and one that you should be prepared for.
Why People Are Moving During the Pandemic
There’s no denying it—the coronavirus has caused a dramatic shift in the way we live and work. As cases around the country continue to soar, remote work has become standard practice. But it doesn’t look like working from home will disappear when the cases drop. According to a Gallup poll taken back in May, only 25% of workers plan to return to their workplace once the restrictions are lifted.
And with the freedom that remote work provides, more people are moving. A study conducted by Upwork in early October showed that anywhere from 14 to 23 million Americans are planning to move as a result of remote work.
The driving factors behind moves:
- Affordability—Cost of living has become a huge driver of moves, especially with the economic uncertainty the pandemic has caused. Many are moving to places where they can make their salary go further.
- Relationships—More than ever, people are taking stock of what really matters to them. Being closer to loved ones is a strong motivation for moving.
- Freedom & Well-Being—Many families are choosing to leave places like Los Angeles with high case numbers and restrictions. They want their families to be safe and have more social opportunities.
If you are one of the many people who are planning to move during the pandemic, here are some things to consider.
Understand the Restrictions in Place Where You Are Moving
The COVID-19 response varies dramatically across the country. While the CDC has issued guidelines that apply nationally, you will want to spend time researching the state, county, and local response of your new home.
Some states are requiring or recommending a 14-day self-quarantine upon arrival, which will require planning and forethought on your part. Even the states with fewer restrictions may have other policies in place that you should be aware of.
Here are just some of the things you may want to research:
- Is the DMV offering services online or by mail so you can avoid an in-person visit?
- If you have children, will their school be online?
- Are there quarantine and/or testing requirements upon arrival?
If You Are Moving Far, Take the Necessary Travel Precautions
Will your move require travel by plane, car, or train? You’ll want to understand the safety requirements—such as mask-wearing or mandatory testing—that are in place before your move. The moving process can be stressful enough; the last thing you want is for your move to be delayed because you were unprepared or for someone to get sick.
If you are worried about being exposed to COVID-19 while you travel, you may want to be tested after you arrive. Take the time to understand the testing options available in your new town. Find out where you would like to be tested, how much it will cost, and the best time to take the test for an accurate result.
Have a Plan for Cleaning & Sanitizing
One of the best ways to protect yourself and others during a move is to have a cleaning and sanitizing plan. Because the virus is spread through close contact, living areas can be high-risk spaces for contraction. Consider when and how you will clean your old and new place. You will need to give yourself enough time to handle the cleaning after your belongings have been moved from your old place and before they make it to your new place. In the end, it might be more convenient to have a cleaning company handle this work for you.
Work with Movers Who Follow CDC Guidelines
Hiring a moving company that you can trust might be one of the smartest decisions you can make when you move during a pandemic. At Affordable Quality Moving and Storage, we are taking every precaution to keep our customers and movers healthy. We know the challenges that come with moving during a pandemic, and we are here to help you start fresh in a new place without having to worry about the safety of your family. We can help you navigate this process in a way that keeps you and others safe.
We handle moves of all kinds:
Our Southern California moving company has been helping customers since 1996. Schedule your free estimate today to see how we can make moving during a pandemic less stressful!
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