By Kaitlyn Szabo • August 7, 2020
Moving is a hectic, expensive, and stressful process. And it is only more chaotic when it happens during a pandemic. If at all possible, postpone your move until after it’s safe to lift social distancing measures. But if you cannot reschedule, be sure to prepare and execute a comprehensive plan as soon as possible to ensure a safe and smooth move. Here are some tips to help plan, with COVID-19 specific tips bolded.
Two Months Before the Move
- Create a moving folder (physical or digital) to store all relevant documents and receipts. You may be eligible for a tax deduction for moving expenses.
- Make a moving budget. Inquire about costs and look for promotional offers. Contact and hire movers, truck rentals, or storage units as needed. Research their COVID-19 hours of operation and ask them directly about their safety protocols.
- Get creative about decluttering safely: “eat your freezer” to clean out food or pack “To Be Donated” items together and hold until it is safe to donate.
One Month Before the Move
- Forward mail with USPS and other mailing services. Update your address wherever needed, including (but not limited to) your driver’s license and vehicle registration, SSA benefits, bank accounts, and credit cards.
- Transfer your utilities, cable, and Internet plans. Negotiate for lower prices. Collect all financial, legal, and medical records, and forward records to new providers.
- Gather packing supplies, using what you already have first (e.g. towels as bubble wrap). Plan to get all other needed supplies, including new cardboard boxes, from the store with as few trips as possible. Start packing gradually every day and label each box by room. Pack creatively, yet efficiently.
One Week Before the Move
- Confirm logistics of moving day. How/when will you get there? What are the parking options? How many people will be there? What safety regulations are in place locally due to COVID-19?
- Finish packing! Plan to finish packing at least 24 hours before your move.
- Pack an overnight suitcase with essentials. Add hand sanitizer, masks, soap, and paper towels.
Moving Day!
- Get started as soon as possible! Give yourself enough time to get things done, take short breaks, and make adjustments if necessary to ensure everyone’s safety.
- Take photos of your old place as you leave and your new one as you arrive. Clean and disinfect both.
- Communicate clearly with everyone at the move. As much as possible, minimize the number of people and the contact between them throughout the day. Wear masks while working closely with others.
One Week After the Move
For more checklists, check out Bed, Bath, and Beyond, Updater, and Apartment Therapy.
Need additional financial support? Check out our list of financial resources in Minnesota for options.
Money Management E-Newsletter: July 2020
