Moving during a pandemic doesn’t need to be difficult, in fact, it didn’t stop people from moving. According to the ABS, “104,100 people moved interstate in the three months to the end of March 2021.” This is an increase of “16,400 compared with the March 2020 quarter.”1 So where actually are Aussies moving? Queensland is the most popular choice for Aussies looking to relocate interstate with 7,000 more people moving to the Sunshine state in March 2021 compared to March last year1. If you’re thinking of relocating locally, interstate or even abroad, below are a couple of do’s and don’ts of moving during a pandemic:
The Do’s
Do check the number of community transmission in the area you’re moving in
Before you move, make sure you check the transmission rate in the area, state and/or country you’re moving into. This will help you take all the necessary precaution to help reduce your risk of getting the virus. Each state in Australia has their own webpages which is updated on a regular basis with the latest number of cases and information.
Do check current regulations of your new state, country and/or area
This is particularly important if you’re moving interstate or abroad. By checking the currently regulations at your new place, you can prepare and ensure that you adhere to them. To check current regulations in Australia, visit the Department of Health’s Coronavirus travel and restrictions page.
If hiring professional movers, do ask for their COVID-19 protocols If you’re planning on hiring professional movers or removalist, make sure you enquire about their COVID-19 protocols and what steps they’ll take to keep you, your family and their crew safe. A good removalist will have a pandemic protocol in place to keep their clients and their team members healthy.
Do choose virtual tours over in-person tours If you haven’t decided where to move and are still looking for a property, make sure you choose a virtual tour over in-person tour. It will not only keep you safe, but it’ll also help you save money.
If moving temporarily, do book a short-term self-storage solution to stow excess valuables Finally, if you’re moving temporarily make sure you book a short-term self-storage solution like Smartbox. Smartbox is the convenient and affordable self-storage solution to help you stow your valuables while you’re away. Our storage box or containers are stored in our secure facility where it’ll be monitored 24/7. We have storage units available in Melbourne and Sydney, so make sure you call Smartbox on 1300 880 800 if you need short-term storage.
The Don’ts
Don’t forget to assess your and your family’s risk Before moving, make sure you assess your and your family risk’, particularly if you or other family members have underlying health conditions such as heart disease, diagnosed diabetes, kidney disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Remember that individuals with underlying health conditions have a higher risk of catching COVID-19, so make sure you and your family are comfortable to take the risk and take preventative measures you can take to reduce it.
Don’t borrow old moving boxes and packing materials Although borrowing old moving carton and supplies can help you save money and is eco-friendly, it might not be ideal during a pandemic. We suggest purchasing new tools for peace of mind and to ensure that they are fresh.
Don’t forget to wash your hands We know moving can be stressful and its so easy to get caught up in your tasks, but it’s always a good idea to wash your hands regularly. It not only prevents the spread of COVID-19 but it also keeps other germs and bacteria away. If access to a sink and faucet is difficult, use hand sanitisers with 70% alcohol content instead.
Don’t move if you’re feeling unwell If you or any members of your family are feeling unwell, you may want to delay your move until you feel better. Remember to get tested and isolate if you show any symptoms. If you move while you’re ill, you risk spreading it to others and it’ll make moving difficult as you won’t have the energy to lift your furniture and boxes.
Don’t move unless you need to If you don’t need to move immediately, you may want to delay the relocation until restrictions ease and cases drops. It’ll not only reduce your chances of catching COVID-19 but it can also reduce stress, as you don’t need to worry about adhering to strict rules and regulations.
If you need to book a temporary storage solution or need to purchase cartons and/or packing materials visit our Box Shop or attain an quote to find out how much you can save.
