5 Things To Keep In Mind If You're Moving During The Pandemic

So much time at home has a lot of us ready to pack up and move. That's the gist of a recent Harris Poll survey, which found that nearly one-third of Americans have recently browsed real estate websites for homes or apartments to rent or buy. Those who live in cities seem to be leading the charge. If you, too, are looking for a new place to call home during the pandemic, here are some tips on how to make sure your move is safe and as stress-free as possible:

Moving authority and author of The Art of Happy Moving Ali Wenzke recommends packing any leftover items in a box marked "to donate" and taking them with you to your new place. "I know it isn't ideal to move with items you've mentally decluttered, but once charities can start collecting items again, they will need your gently used sheets and lamps more than ever," she says.

In typical times, Wenzke recommends asking friends and neighbors for moving boxes and other supplies to keep things cheap and low-waste, but that may not be feasible right now. Instead, buy recyclable cardboard boxes or clear, plastic storage containers that you can use for storage in your new place. You can also look into any reusable box rental services in your area; just make sure they are disinfecting boxes between uses with a CDC-certified cleaning solution.

Before signing on with movers, ask them about what precautions they're taking to minimize the spread of the virus (wearing face masks during moves, taking temperatures every day, etc.). Once you find some you feel comfortable with, Wenzke says there are a few things you can do while packing to make their jobs easier and keep everyone safe come moving day: "If you plan to pack your own items, label the items with the room where they will need to go and list the contents in detail. In order to avoid unnecessary contact, place signs on the doors of your new place that identify each room, such as 'Master Bedroom' or 'Joseph's bedroom.'" she says, adding that this can also expedite the unpacking process. "In general, try to stay out of the movers' way and keep your mask on. Also, buy pizza for the crew. They're working hard for you."

While COVID-19 seems to spread mostly from person-to-person contact, the CDC says it's possible to contract the virus by touching an infected surface and then touching your nose, mouth, or eyes. To be extra safe, Wenzke recommends doing a deep clean of every surface upon arrival, focusing on high-contact areas such as doorknobs, handles, and light switches.

"The gratitude that people feel for their new spaces is unlike anything I've seen before," Wenzke says. "Our connection to home is stronger than ever, and people are focusing on creating beautiful spaces for themselves amid the chaos."