How to move during the COVID-19 pandemic?

The COVID-19 pandemic has upended our personal and work lives. From the way we learn to the way we work, travel, and entertain ourselves, some things will never be the same.

With the threat of the virus looming large, people have been forced to stay indoors; they have been compelled to postpone important occasions and events.

However, with a home move, this isn’t always doable.

How then can you securely navigate a home relocation during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Find out below. We’ve mentioned the necessary precautions to take on the day of the move to ensure a smooth, stress-free, and most importantly, safe transition.

What is COVID-19?

The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a highly infectious disease. The SARS-CoV-2 virus causes it. The virus attacks a person’s respiratory system and can range from mild to severe symptoms. It spreads through contact with the saliva droplets of an infected person.

Since its emergence in December 2019, COVID-19 has claimed the lives of millions of people worldwide, led to the collapse of health systems, and has also impacted the strongest economies.

Is the move necessary during the COVID-19 pandemic?

This might not have been the information you were looking for. Nevertheless, it is a question you should think about.

Consider delaying your move if you can. It may not be an option for someone whose lease is ending soon or has an approaching closing date on a property deal.

If moving is unavoidable, proceed with caution.

What is social distancing? How does it impact your move?

One of the most effective barriers against the transmission of COVID-19 is social separation, sometimes known as “physical distancing.” This includes maintaining a distance from other people and not gathering in large crowds.

Given the need for social distancing, moving companies have reduced the number of personnel involved in a single move. What earlier would have been handled by 6-7 people is now done by a maximum of 3 people.

You should maintain a safe distance throughout the procedure. A reliable moving company can be trusted to achieve a professional move without you hovering.

Social distancing has also pushed for contactless moves and virtual surveys. In a contactless move, the relocation company does not require the customer to be present on moving day. After unlocking the apartment doors and reviewing what has to be relocated, the customer is free to depart. Homeowners can return and lock up once the movers have packed and are ready to ship.

Before the pandemic, most moves began with an in-person house tour to take inventory of the items to be relocated. However, this is no longer the case. A video conference is the best approach to conduct a house survey and discuss the estimate while reducing physical contact and the dangers of infection.

Furthermore, it reduces the surveyor’s trip time and costs.

Ask about Coronavirus Protocol

The virus can spread easily from a contaminated surface or an infected person. Hence, it is critical to know the preparedness of the local moving company.

Call up the local moving company. Ask about the safeguards they adopt throughout the transfer. For example, inquire about the use of face masks, gloves, boots, sanitization procedures, and employee screening methods.

Frequent sanitization of trucks and transportation vehicles is also a must.

Choosing the best Chicago Moving Company protects family Members

Seniors and kids are the most vulnerable on such occasions. Keep them in a separate room or have them move to another place until the relocation is over. They have a lower likelihood of catching the virus if they are exposed to fewer individuals.

Ensure everyone wears masks and face shields if shifting temporarily is not an option. Your home should be well-ventilated. Open up the doors and windows to allow the air to circulate.

You can choose to do the packing yourself. This will reduce the time you spend with the packers.

Disinfect your home

Before you begin unpacking, disinfect your new house. This particularly includes areas that see frequent handling, such as the doorknobs, tables, kitchen slabs, lights and switches, and furniture. Provide movers with soap and disinfectant spray that they may use to keep themselves safe.

Dispose of cardboard boxes, plastics, and other packaging material carefully, as the virus could survive on these surfaces for up to 24 hours.

While we can’t put life on hold while dealing with the epidemic, we all must be vigilant and do everything we can to safeguard ourselves and those around us.

How to Choose a Trusted Moving Company near You

Choosing the best moving company in Chicago involves careful consideration of several factors to ensure a smooth and stress-free moving experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you pick the right moving company:

1. Research & Recommendations

• Ask for referrals: Talk to friends, family, and coworkers who have recently moved. They can recommend reliable movers or warn you about bad experiences.
• Online reviews: Check reputable review platforms such as Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for consistent positive feedback and high ratings.

2. Licensed and Insured

• Verify credentials: Ensure that the moving company is licensed and insured. In Illinois, check the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) website to confirm the company’s legal standing.
• USDOT number: If you’re moving interstate, make sure the moving company has a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number, which shows they are authorized to move across state lines.

3. Experience and Specialization

• Years in business: Choose moving companies with a solid history in the industry. A longer track record often indicates reliability.
• Specialized moves: If you have unique items (pianos, antiques, etc.), make sure the moving company has experience moving such things.

4. In-home Estimates

• Get multiple quotes: Request at least three in-home or virtual estimates from different moving companies in Chicago and the surrounding. This will give you an idea of the average cost for your move.
• Binding estimate: Look for companies that offer binding estimates, which provide a guaranteed price that won’t change unless you add more services.

5. Compare Pricing

• Be wary of low quotes: Extremely low estimates could indicate potential hidden fees or poor service quality.
• Understand the cost breakdown: Make sure you know exactly what is included in the price (labor, transportation, packing materials, etc.). Watch out for any extra charges.

6. Check Services Offered

• Full-service options: Some moving companies offer additional services, such as packing, unpacking, temporary storage, or furniture assembly, for movers in Chicago.
• Customizable options: Look for moving companies in Chicago that offer flexibility, such as partial packing services, moving only large items, or moving boxes you’ve packed yourself.

7. Ask About Claims Process

• Damage policy: Accidents can happen, so ask the moving company how they handle damaged or lost items. Ensure they provide some level of liability coverage.
• Read the fine print: Make sure you understand the terms of insurance and liability. Some moving companies offer full value protection, while others provide basic coverage.

8. Customer Service & Communication

• Responsiveness: A good moving company will be responsive to your queries, transparent about the process, and offer consistent communication.
• Professionalism: Observe how the moving company’s customer service treats you during the inquiry process. Their professionalism can reflect the overall quality of the company.

9. Avoid Red Flags

• No on-site estimate: Reputable moving companies will usually offer to send someone to evaluate your belongings in person.
• Large upfront deposit: Be wary if the company demands a large deposit or cash payment in advance.
• Unmarked trucks: A professional moving company will typically have branded trucks and uniforms for the movers.
• No contract: Always have a contract that clearly outlines services, costs, and terms.

10. Local Knowledge

• Familiarity with Chicago: Choose a company familiar with Chicago neighborhoods, traffic patterns, and parking restrictions. This can help avoid unnecessary delays or complications.

Call or email King David Moving & Storage today, and let us provide you with a Free Moving Estimate for the smoothest and most pleasant moving experience in Chicago, IL.

What to do before start looking for moving companies?

Planning a move in the Chicago area can feel overwhelming if you jump straight into calling moving contractors without a clear plan. Many homeowners and renters start searching for quotes too early, only to get vague estimates or run into unexpected building delays.

Knowing what to do before looking for moving companies puts you in control of your budget, schedule, and peace of mind. Before gathering estimates, follow these essential preparation steps to ensure a smooth, cost-effective relocation.

1. Audit and Declutter Your Home Inventory

Moving charges in Illinois are heavily tied to the total volume and weight of your belongings, as well as the time required for loading. Gathering quotes for items you plan to donate or discard only inflates your estimates.

• Room-by-Room Walkthrough: Inspect every room, closet, attic, and storage space.

• The 12-Month Rule: If you haven’t worn, used, or displayed an item in the past year, consider selling or donating it.

• Draft an Itemized List: Highlight specialty items that require expert handling, such as pianos, heavy safes, or fragile glass cases.

Having a concrete inventory list ready allows estimators to give you an accurate, transparent price rather than a broad rough estimate.

2. Determine Your Specific Moving Service Needs

Not all moves require the same level of assistance. Defining your scope of work in advance helps narrow down the right local moving contractors.

• Full-Service Packing vs. Self-Packing: Decide if you want crew members to pack every box, or if you only need help with heavy furniture. For delicate glassware or high-value items, exploring professional packing and unpacking services can save significant time and prevent breakage.

• Storage Needs: If there is a gap between your move-out and move-in dates, check whether you need secure, climate-controlled storage.

• Relocation Distance: Confirm whether your move is a city-to-city trip or requires long-distance moving services across state lines.

3. Verify Local Building Regulations and Access Requirements

In dense urban neighborhoods and high-rise apartment complexes, logistical constraints dictate your schedule. Resolving these details beforehand prevents last-minute delays on moving day.

Elevator & Loading Dock Reservations

Many residential buildings enforce strict time slots for freight elevator use. Contact your property manager to secure a dedicated window for loading or unloading.

Certificate of Insurance (COI) Requirements

High-rise properties almost always demand a Certificate of Insurance from the moving provider naming the building management as additionally insured before granting site access.

Street Parking Permits

If your current or future residence lacks a dedicated loading bay, you may need street permits or temporary parking meters reserved to park a full-sized moving truck close to your entrance.

4. Set Your Moving Timeline and Target Dates

Timing influences contractor availability and pricing.

• Peak Seasons: Weekends, the beginning and end of the month, and summer months represent the busiest periods for moving providers.

• Mid-Week Advantage: Scheduling a mid-week or mid-month move often provides greater scheduling flexibility.

• Lead Time: Aim to begin contacting professional crews 4 to 6 weeks in advance for local moves, and 8 weeks in advance for interstate relocations.

5. Know the Licensing Rules in Illinois

Before reaching out to any contractor, familiarize yourself with standard consumer protection laws.

In the State of Illinois, all legitimate intrastate moving providers must hold active licensing with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) and publish official rate tariffs. Furthermore, interstate carriers must maintain active registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Knowing these basic requirements ensures you only select reputable, fully insured companies equipped to protect your belongings. If you are moving locally within the metropolitan area, working with an experienced team of local Chicago movers ensures full compliance with local access and parking guidelines.

Ready to Plan Your Move?

Taking these simple steps early simplifies your search and protects your moving budget. When you’re ready to review clear options for your next move, reach out to King David Moving & Storage for a transparent, stress-free estimate.

📞 Call us today at (847) 470-0055 for a free moving estimate!

What Ways to Take Care of Your Movers

Find some quick tips here! Shifting your place

Moving day can be exciting — but also exhausting. If you’re relocating your home or office, working with professional movers means trusting others with your most valuable belongings. Movers do hard physical work and deserve respect, appreciation, and support throughout the moving process.

In this guide, we’ll walk through proven ways to take care of your movers, improve working conditions on moving day, and ensure everything goes smoothly and stress-free for everyone involved.

Why It Matters to Take Care of Your Movers

Professional movers handle heavy lifting, long hours, and coordination logistics — often under tight schedules. When customers are courteous and prepared, movers can work more efficiently, safely, and confidently. Beyond good manners, these tips also help reduce the risk of damage, delays, and confusion.

1. Stay Organized Before They Arrive

One of the best ways to support your movers is to be fully prepared when they arrive:

• Pack your boxes ahead of time. Movers should start loading — not wait while you finish packing.

• Label all boxes clearly by room and content so movers know where everything goes in your new home.

• Empty drawers and shelves before they arrive to speed up the process and prevent spills or lost items.

Preparation helps movers work efficiently, keeps the move on schedule, and demonstrates respect for their time and labor.

2. Provide Hydration & Comfortable Working Conditions

Moving is strenuous — physically and mentally. One simple but meaningful way to take care of movers:

• Offer cold water and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day.

• Provide shaded or comfortable rest spots if the weather is warm.

These gestures show appreciation and help your crew stay energized and focused.

3. Set Up a Clear Working Space & Parking

Nothing slows down a move faster than logistical hurdles:

• Clear a parking area close to your doors so movers don’t have to carry heavy items extra distances.
• Make sure pathways are free from obstacles, pets, or clutter that could block access.
• Unlock gates, open doors, and point out tight corners ahead of time.

Good preparation here reduces stress and keeps everyone safer.

Here is more Detailed: 11 Tips for Hiring a Quality Moving Company

4. Communicate & Be Available

You don’t have to physically help lift furniture, but being present and communicative can make all the difference:

• Walk through the home with the moving foreman before work begins.
• Answer questions about fragile items or special instructions.
• Let them know which rooms go where in your new place.

Clear communication helps prevent mistakes and builds trust between you and the crew.

5. Understand Their Limits — Don’t Interfere Too Much

While it’s natural to want to help, too much “help” can actually slow movers down. Movers are trained professionals — allow them to do their job while you support in other ways (like setting up or guiding logistical details).

6. Tip Generously & Show Appreciation

Tipping isn’t required everywhere, but it’s widely considered a standard way to thank movers for a job well done. Many customers choose to tip:

• A percentage of the move cost.
• A flat cash amount per mover.
• Snacks, drinks, or meals if the move spans several hours or a full day.

A thoughtful tip boosts morale and shows appreciation for hard work.

Here is more Detailed: 11 Tips for Hiring a Quality Moving Company

7. Leave Reviews & Testimonials

After a great moving experience, take a few minutes to:

• Leave a review on Google, Yelp, or other review sites
• Share positive feedback on social media

…helps movers build trust with future customers and strengthens their reputation online.