Storage, Tips for Moving, Boxes

-4 Simple Tips for Moving During a Pandemic-

Moving to a new home is an exciting time, but it does come with a long list of to-dos.  This summer, in addition to the heat, Floridians must factor in COVID-19 and protocols for moving during a pandemic.  Our Tampa Bay real estate team has the latest tips to streamline a plan for your safe and simple moving process.

Safe Planning for a Tampa Bay Area Move

Before moving, create a moving timeline and official plan. In your plan, include purchases, supply checklists, to-do items, and service scheduling. For a 2020 moving plan, you should also pay special attention to keeping things safe and clean to avoid the spread of coronavirus. Consider these strategies and tips for moving:

  1. Research and Pick the Right Movers: Research moving companies to find the one that is right for you. In addition to pricing and load capacities, be sure to ask about their safety procedures.  Considering COVID-19, you may want to ask questions regarding their policies on wearing gloves, facemasks, shoe covers, equipment sanitizing, and social distancing measures.  We often suggest getting at least three estimates for movers offering services around the Greater Tampa Bay region. Prices and policies will vary in different areas across Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties. Call our real estate team at 813-294-5786 for names of reputable moving companies in our area and other tips for moving.
  2. Alert Service Providers in Advance: Reset utilities, mailing services, subscriptions, pet services, security systems, garbage services, pest control, or lawn care services as early as possible. Due to the coronavirus and countless closures, some of these services may need further advance notice than usual. As moving day approaches, doublecheck with service providers to ensure all transition plans are on track to avoid issues or disruptions.
  3. Check Supply Lists and Stock Up: In addition to various sized boxes, packing tape, markers, box cutters, dollies, and labels, you will want to include sanitary items like hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, gloves, paper towels, and possibly facemasks for your family. Use color-coded systems for pre-labeling and organizing all items for the moving truck. Also, separately mark and keep important boxes with you, such as those packed with confidential papers, medication, jewelry, and personal items needed for moving day.
  4. Pack and Unpack Carefully: We all know to be careful when we pack and move delicate or fragile items, but now we must also remember cleanliness. Coronavirus can last days on hard surfaces, and reports state it can last up to 24 hours on cardboard boxes. Most movers have protocols to protect their employees and customers, but you will also want to practice caution when handling and disinfecting items.

With the right amount of hand sanitizer and appropriate planning, there will be no need for panic over the pandemic on your moving day. In fact, this seamless move can be an exciting and wonderful start to a new life in your new home.

We specialize in helping customers prepare for downsizing, selling, buying, moving between homes, and enjoying the Florida lifestyle.  Contact Dick and Karla Nielsen at 813-294-5786.