How to move house during COVID-19

Moving house is stressful enough on its own, but what about when you’re trying to do it during a global pandemic? Concerns quickly shift from which labels to put on boxes, to whether you’ll even be able to safely move at all. With government restrictions evolving by the day, here are a few questions you’ll want to have answered before you make the big move.

Tips to move house during the coronavirus pandemic

Can I still move house?

This is probably the most obvious question on every mover’s mind. The short answer is yes, you can. Under government restrictions, states have included moving house as a reason that would excuse someone for going outside. However, there are other things you will need to consider when making your arrangements.

Can I use removalists?

While governments have not placed any restrictions on the operation of removalists, many businesses have had to implement new rules as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. 

The main concern here is hygiene. Removalist companies are in and out of a multitude of homes every week, increasing their risk of infection and transmission. In response to this, they are sanitising trucks more regularly, ensuring that employees are washing their hands thoroughly between jobs and implementing the use of gloves and face masks where they deem necessary.

Recently, a colleague of mine was informed by a furniture company that all old mattresses must be bagged before they could be taken away in order to reduce the risk of infection. Be sure to ask businesses directly if there are any new procedures that you should be aware of to limit extra hassle on the day.

Additionally, while removalists are doing their bit to keep you healthy and hygienic, it is important for you to reciprocate this. If you are feeling unwell yourself or are uncomfortable with the use of removalists during this time, you may want to consider the DIY option.

What are my options for a DIY move?

Many companies offer moving vans for hire, and many of the smaller vehicles can be driven with a standard car licence. DIY moves can be great if you want to save some money on labour or if you don’t have a huge amount of stuff you need to move. 

If you are considering this option, please do keep safety front of mind. Removalists are highly trained in the correct way of lifting heavy appliances like washing machines and refrigerators. The cost of a removalist is well worth saving yourself from potential strain or injury.

How will this impact me if I’m working from home?

With many offices now closed as a result of COVID-19, a lot of us have found ourselves frantically setting up a home office to adjust to this new normal. Moving house will see you dismantling this set-up as quickly as you put it together.

In order to minimise the disruption to your work during the move, try to create a working from home checklist when packing and keep these items together. 

This will include things like your desk, laptop and headphones but also items like your modem and router. If possible, sort out your broadband connection at your new home ahead of time, so you’re ready to jump back online straight away.

What does this mean for buyers and sellers?

If you’re at the start of your relocation journey, the home buying process is looking a whole lot different to what you might be used to. Under recent government restrictions, open homes have been banned, which means that inspections are now by appointment only or FaceTime.

In addition to this, restrictions on non-essential gatherings mean that auctions have moved online. Although clearance rates are lower than usual, auctioneers are reporting strong attendance at online auctions.

As you can see, for the most part, it is business as usual, but you will want to take extra precautions during this time if you’re moving (keep the hand wash and hand sanitiser handy!). The main thing is to make sure you are up to date with any new state/territory or federal government restrictions that may affect you during your move. In addition to this, check with any businesses you intend to use for changes to their usual policies and operations.

Most importantly, always put health and hygiene first. Whether that is your own, your family’s or that of removalists, reducing the spread of infection should always be everyone’s top priority in this time.

Written by:

Bessie Hassan

Bessie Hassan is a Money Expert at finder.com.au, the site that compares virtually everything. She regularly appears on national radio, TV, and throughout online publications sharing her best money-saving tips and property advice. She’s passionate about helping Australians make more informed decisions so they can improve their quality of life.