Contactless Moving Guidelines: 5 Tips for A Safer Move

Moving isn’t always the easiest task, even during the best of times, and adding a global crisis to the mix is bound to cause more challenges. For some, the answer may be to delay moving plans. However, for others, if you can’t or prefer not to, you may wonder how you should go about moving due to the current circumstances?  

To assist movers with relocating during the coronavirus outbreak, the moving industry is taking steps to help maintain health and safety operations, according to the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA). Keep reading as we’ve outlined proactive steps drawing from guidance from AMSA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as well as some of our practices to help reduce the risks and stress if you’re moving during these unprecedented times.   

Zero Contact Rental Process  

Public health officials continue urging people to social distance as avoiding contact is one of the most efficient ways to prevent catching or spreading the virus. At The Hennessey Group, please rest assured as our primary concern is the health and well-being of our customers and employees, and we are fully committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all. 

The following precautions will be implemented, effective immediately:   

• Any persons showing signs of illness will not be granted access to occupied accommodations. 
• We have contacted our partner communities, asking for their support as well. To avoid contact with onsite staff, we have requested a Cease to Enter all Arch units until further notice, except for severe and emergent situations. 
• 24-hour notice will be required prior to any staff members entering an occupied apartment. 
• Although we have a strict protocol for cleaning products, we have decided to proceed with a CDC suggested blend of bleach and water to clean and disinfect apartments’ surface tops to include all hard surfaces. 
• This includes, and is not limited to, remote controls, door handles, light switches, etc.––any surface that can be easily accessed.

Virtual Estimates 

When it comes to making the transition from your old home to your new place, you should contact your local moving company online and ask how they’re mitigating the health risks of COVID-19. At The Hennessey Group, we provide virtual estimates rather than in-home visits. The video estimate feature allows you to get your move’s cost without having an estimator in your home.   

Get Packing Supplies Delivered  

Since trips outside of your home are discouraged, it’s essential to make a comprehensive list of moving supplies ordered online well before you start packing. Most services are reporting delayed shipping times between 5-7 business days after an order is placed. We also consider checking out local moving companies as many are currently providing free delivery on all orders and contactless curbside pickup.  

Place Your Highest Priority on the Health and Safety of You and Your Family  

While moving is important, so is the health and safety of you and your family. Be aware of the facts and risks that come with moving to ensure you’re taking the correct precautions. Also, be willing to change your plans if that’s what it takes to keep you and your family safe. Below, AMSA advises: 

• If you are in a high-risk group (have pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, a compromised immunity, or are over 60), consider postponing your move or taking extra precautions like contactless move-ins. 
• If you or someone in your household may have contracted coronavirus or if you’re self-isolating after being exposed, be sure to call your moving company and new apartment and explain the situation. In many cases, movers and leasing agents will work with you.

Moving Day 

Some people may be more cautious about hiring movers, and that’s okay. While moving on your own requires a little more time and work, it does minimize contact with other people. Moving on your own may require a rental truck or even storage pods– both are great options since you can do the loading yourself.  

However, if you are considering hiring movers, The Hennessey Group is taking extra precautions to ensure our customers and employees remain safe and healthy. We are checking in with customers prior to moving day to confirm that no one in the house is sick. And in addition to requiring employees to wear masks and gloves and undergo daily temperature checks.  

Please keep in mind that as we all adapt to the changing times; we will continue to stay informed and implement any local or state restrictions. At The Hennessey Group, we want to alleviate the anxiety and stress of moving during the Coronavirus pandemic. For more information on the services we offer, please check out our website.