Coronavirus Disease 2019 Rotator Graphic for af.mil. (U.S. Air Force Graphic by Rosario "Charo" Gutierrez)
Movers are deemed to be essential workers by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). As such, they are generally allowed to carry out the obligations of their duties as long as they adhere to CDC safety guidelines.
In addition to federal guidelines, however, many states have implemented restrictions. Check the CDC COVID information pages as well as your state guidelines.
When you speak to professional moving companies to obtain quotes, ask about their COVID-19 safety guidelines. Some things to watch for when reviewing guidelines include restrictions preventing symptomatic employees from working and requirements for mask-wearing and social distancing. Ask whether they can provide a virtual quote for your move and how they sanitize their moving trucks and equipment between service.
You have every right to expect your movers to wear masks, wash their hands frequently and maintain safe distances from others. It’s only right that you and your family observe these same precautions. You will not only help minimize the risk to others but you’ll be giving your family the best chance of staying safe during the pandemic.
If you plan to pack your household goods and personal items yourself, this is not the time to scrounge used boxes or packing materials. Get unused boxes from your moving company or purchase them from a store or online. Likewise, order new packing tape, bubble wrap and other packing materials.
As moving day approaches, don’t hesitate to check with your mover to verify that anyone they’re sending out has not been exposed to the virus or exhibiting symptoms. Likewise, if anyone in your household is sick or might have been exposed to COVID, you have an obligation to advise your moving company of this fact.