By taking extra safety precautions and minimizing social contact, you can still move safely.

Amid travel bans, widespread stay-at-home orders, and social-distancing mandates, millions of Americans have adapted to the changes brought about by COVID-19. Countless events have been rescheduled or canceled, but for a few people — including those who already made plans to move — staying put is simply not an option. If you are about to move, you can still pull it off with a little extra planning and a few precautionary steps. Here are some tips for making your move as safe, seamless, and stress-free as possible.

Minimize contact

If you’re working with a moving company, ask for a virtual quote and see if the company offers a fully contactless service. Forgo handshakes, for obvious reasons. A smile and a generous tip (sent through Venmo, PayPal, or another contactless digital platform) are a welcome substitute.

Take extra sanitary precautions

  • Wear masks, gloves, and booties. If you’re hiring a moving company, they’ll likely bring similar supplies for their workers, but consider having additional hygiene products available.
  • Disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces, paying particular attention to doorknobs and handles.
  • Place soap and paper towels next to sinks and hand sanitizer by doors.
  • Buy new boxes: The coronavirus has been found to live on cardboard for up to 24 hours, so this might not be the time to pick up used moving supplies from stores that are recycling them. You can also use boxes that you already have in your home.

Be transparent and flexible

In advance of your move, reach out to your neighbors — especially if you live in an apartment building — and share the date and time you plan to move. This gives everyone in your direct vicinity an opportunity to avoid unnecessary contact and let you know if your timing is a problem. If you or any family members are experiencing coronavirus symptoms, postpone your moving plans. Though rescheduling is a pain, the health and safety of your community come first.

Help those in need and lighten your load

Even in the best of circumstances, nearly 40 million Americans are unable to afford groceries. As COVID-19 forces school closures, soup kitchen shutdowns, and a surge of layoffs, the need for anti-hunger provisions are greater than ever. Donate your shelf-stable items to a local food bank or to Move for Hunger, a national organization that works with professional moving companies and their customers to feed those in need. Moving is hard work no matter what, and it’s especially challenging right now. But by taking extra precautions, you can — and will — get past this hurdle.