1. Your Health Comes First.

Moving may be important, but your safety is more important. If you or anyone in your family that's moving is in a high risk group, then you should take whatever steps you can to delay your move until authorities confirm the pandemic is over.

If you or someone in your household may have contracted Coronavirus, or are self-isolating after being exposed, call your moving company and explain the situation. In many cases, movers will work with you.

2. Find a Moving Service That Minimizes Human Contact.

Social distancing is the only proven way to fight the Coronavirus that we know of. Using a moving container service will leave you in complete control of your move and minimize contact with others. You don't even need to be present or talk to anyone in person when your container is picked up or delivered.

If you’re working with a traditional moving service, make arrangements by phone or online, and ask what sanitation practices their movers are following to reduce risks.

3. Consider Storage as a Backup

Even under normal circumstances, move dates can change. Consider using a portable container that offers built-in storage options – either on your property or at a secure storage center – to keep your belongings safe and out of the way in case of a postponed closing or other delay. If that’s not possible, ask your movers if they provide storage. If they do, ask about costs and access to your belongings during storage.

4. Check With Your Mover's Cancelation and Refund Policies

With all the rapid changes happening, there could be situations that cause a delay or cancelation with your moving service. FInd out what your mover's policies are regarding changing moving dates, deposits, and cancelations.

5. Use Extra Sanitation Precautions

• Avoid using recycled boxes from other sources. Since the coronavirus can live on surfaces like cardboard, this isn’t the time to economize on boxes. You can use boxes you have on hand, as well as purchase new boxes from several sources, such as your moving company.
• Wipe down items and boxes before moving. Use disinfectant wipes to clean surfaces of furniture, boxes, and other items before loading. This will help reduce the risk of carrying germs to your new home.
• Provide your moving crew with hand-washing supplies and sanitizer. Whether you’ve got professional movers or family and friends helping you, make sure everyone has access to a sink, soap and water, and paper towels to use often throughout the move. If possible, provide hand sanitizer and disposable gloves as well.

Above all, stay safe!