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Posted in Moving Essentials, Moving Preparation on January 27, 2023
Milly Andrews

Born and raised in Portland, Milly has had a lot of experience moving and writing about the relocation process.

Why and How Are Moving Companies Essential Businesses?

Relocating is often a stressful and overwhelming process, requiring planning, packing, heavy lifting, and more. By utilizing the services of a trusted relocation company, you can obtain the assistance necessary to make your transition smooth and successful – but are moving companies essential businesses? Can you count on them in times of crisis? If you want to find out, just read on.

Relocation companies are essential businesses because they provide vital services to individuals and families who need to move in order to find new homes or jobs, as well as businesses that need to relocate. These companies help people save time and energy by providing experienced personnel and specialized equipment needed for a successful relocation.

What Are Essential Businesses?

With the COVID-19 pandemic, many places have put in place stay-at-home recommendations and allowed only essential businesses to continue their work undisturbed – but what exactly is considered “essential businesses?” Here is a list of businesses that are typically considered essential:

  • Grocery stores and food retailers – all businesses that sell food and beverages, including convenience stores, gas station stores, and farmers’ markets. It also includes restaurants and food delivery services.
  • Pharmacies – businesses that dispense prescription and non-prescription medications, including drugstores, supermarkets with pharmacies, and hospitals.
  • Banks and financial institutions – companies that provide banking and financial services, such as banks, credit unions, and ATM machines.
  • Medical supply stores – stores that sell medical supplies and equipment, such as hospitals, clinics, and home health care stores.

These are just a few examples of businesses that are typically considered essential. Of course, this list is not exhaustive – there may be other businesses that are considered essential in different areas depending on the circumstances. But are moving companies essential services?

White glove movers getting ready to load boxes onto a truck
Although there is a government definition of essential services, different locations can narrow down or widen it

The Government Regulations and Classifications Regarding Essential Services

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) defines an essential service as “one that is needed for the preservation of life or safety, or one that is needed for economic security and recovery.”

However, keep in mind that the essential character of the services can vary depending on your exact state or even city. Some examples of essential services include but are not limited to the following fields:

  • Healthcare and public health,
  • Law enforcement, public safety, and first responders,
  • Food and agriculture,
  • Energy,
  • Water and wastewater,
  • Transportation,
  • Public works and engineering,
  • Communications and information technology,
  • Financial services,
  • Chemical manufacturing.

Are Moving Companies Essential Businesses?

With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people were wondering if relocation companies are considered essential businesses. So, are movers essential services? In general, relocation companies are considered essential businesses. However, some states have classified them as such, while others have left it up to the individual cities or companies to decide. If you want to be absolutely certain of the answer, your best bet is to check with your state’s government website. You should also contact your chosen white glove moving company to ask about their safety protocols and see if they are still operating.

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Is It Safe to Hire a Moving Company During the Pandemic?

The good news is that, in most cases, the answer is yes, it is safe to get white glove moving servicesas long as you take some basic precautions when relocating during the coronavirus.

When choosing a relocation company, be sure to ask about their COVID-19 safety protocols. Some of the things you’ll want to look for include wearing masks and gloves at all times or sanitizing their trucks regularly. Companies that practice these safety protocols are more likely to reduce your anxiety about relocation.

At the same time, paying for your relocation electronically is always the safest option, as it minimizes contact between you and the long-distance movers. Additionally, be sure to let the relocation company know what your expectations are in terms of social distancing and contact during the move – it should be one of the most important tasks on your to-do list. Letting them know your expectations upfront will help ensure that everyone is on the same page and that everyone remains safe throughout the process.

If you want to learn more about how to stay safe during the pandemic, prepare for movers appropriately, and avoid safety-related relocation mistakes, check the following video:

YouTube video

What Services Do Moving Companies Provide That Make Them Essential Businesses?

In times of crisis, essential businesses play a vital role in our society. As essential business during the coronavirus, relocation companies provide an invaluable service to those who need to move their belongings from one place to another – and can’t postpone the relocation to a new home. They make it possible for people to relocate after the lease has ended when their friend or family member needs help or if they cannot afford to live in their current city – there are numerous relocation reasons that make relocation services necessary.

To ensure the safety of both customers and staff members, many relocation companies have implemented strict protocols, including social distancing guidelines, consistent sanitation of tools and equipment used during long-distance moving, contactless payment options for customers, and the use of protective gear such as masks and gloves. These extra steps help to make sure that everyone involved stays safe throughout the entire process.

Long-distance movers loading a truck
Many states and cities define relocation companies as essentials businesses - and for a good reason

Why It’s Good That White Glove Movers Are Considered Essential

Planning a relocation to another city can be stressful enough in normal times, but the coronavirus pandemic has made it even more so. Thankfully, white glove movers, such as our own Long Distance Movers, are considered essential services and have remained open during lockdown despite the risks associated with such an endeavor. Let’s take a look at why this is good news for those who need to organize a move during these uncertain times.

They’re Available During Lockdowns

White glove relocation companies provide an invaluable service during lockdowns by helping individuals and households relocate efficiently without putting themselves or anyone else at risk. These movers take all necessary safety precautions while providing packing service and transporting items to ensure everyone’s safety. This includes wearing masks and gloves, maintaining social distancing protocols throughout the process, sanitizing all surfaces before and after loading /unloading furniture, and more. In short, white glove movers make it possible for individuals to move safely without having to worry about their health, even if they have a last-minute move.

Moving During the Pandemic Saved Many Lives

The ability to relocate during these difficult times has also been beneficial for many people who may otherwise have been left homeless due to financial hardships brought on by COVID-19. By allowing individuals to move into more affordable housing options when money is tight, long-distance movers have helped countless people stay afloat through this pandemic.

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The Challenges White Glove Moving Services Faced During COVID

Lockdowns and restrictions have made it increasingly hard for relocation companies to provide their services. So what are some of the hardest challenges these businesses had to face during the pandemic, and how did they adapt to overcome them? Let’s find out!

There Were Always Health and Safety Concerns

The health and safety of customers and employees were threatened by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, white glove movers took extra precautions such as wearing protective gear like masks and gloves, sanitizing their equipment regularly, and enforcing social distancing protocols on-site. All of these measures helped ensure that service quality was maintained while still keeping everyone safe.

Difficulty in Operating During Lockdowns Caused Quality Issues

During lockdowns, the businesses that provided white glove relocation services struggled to maintain their operations due to restrictions imposed by local governments. This led to delays in service delivery as well as a decrease in service quality due to a lack of access to materials or personnel needed for the job. To counteract this issue, many of these companies implemented remote customer support options so that customers could contact them without having to physically visit their offices.

The Economic Impact on Everyone Was Immense

The economic impact of COVID-19 was felt across all industries, including those providing white glove relocation services. Many of these businesses had to cut back on staff or close down completely due to a lack of demand for their services caused by travel restrictions or people staying home due to the pandemic. This led to an increase in unemployment rates across the industry and put additional strain on already struggling economies around the world. However, things are looking better now that people have started to return to their normal lives.

A man packing before long-distance moving
The economic impact of the pandemic was severe for both movers and people planning to relocate

All Relocation Services Are Essential Because Migration Is Natural

It can be complicated and stressful to relocate without help, especially if you plan a cross-country move. Having professional assistance is there to make relocating easier. Ultimately, relocation services are an invaluable asset in helping individuals navigate the often overwhelming process of relocating and reach their relocation benefits without too much fuss. Migration is a natural process many of us go through more than once in a lifetime, so it’s good to know that you can always count on professionals to assist you through it – even in tough times. If you’re looking for professional assistance, feel free to contact Long Distance Movers and start planning your relocation today.

FAQ

Are Moving Companies Considered Essential Businesses During Lockdowns?

Yes, relocation companies are considered essential businesses during lockdowns. This is because they provide a vital service to those who need to relocate for a job or other circumstances. Without them, many people would be unable to relocate – especially those who need to move out of state.

Can Moving Companies Operate During Pandemics?

Yes, relocation companies can operate during pandemics, but with some modifications. Long-distance moving services are considered essential services in many cities and states, so they remain open for business even during pandemic periods. They have implemented additional safety measures such as contactless check-ins, sanitizing their equipment between customers, and increased distancing protocols to ensure the safety of their customers and staff.

What Are the Health and Safety Precautions Taken by Moving Companies During the Pandemic?

To start, cross-country movers now require their staff to engage in rigorous sanitation protocols. This includes frequent cleaning of equipment and vehicles, as well as the use of personal protective equipment such as face masks and gloves. They may also ask customers to wear face masks during the relocation and limit contact between customers and their employees.

How Has the Pandemic Affected the Operations of Moving Companies?

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on the operations of relocation companies. With social distancing guidelines in place, movers have had to adapt their protocols and ways of working in order to provide an efficient yet safe service for customers. This has included introducing contactless pickup and delivery services, as well as limiting the number of people allowed in a vehicle. Relocation companies have also had to invest in additional safety measures such as protective gear, sanitation kits, and other health safeguards against the spread of the virus.

What Is the Future Outlook of Moving Companies During and Post-Pandemic?

One of the things to consider when relocating to a new state is the future outlook of relocation companies. With the rise of health and safety concerns, many people were hesitant to relocate or hire movers. As a result, some companies have seen a decrease in their business, but others are adapting to the new “normal” by offering virtual estimates and contact-free services. Post-pandemic, it is likely that the demand for white glove movers will increase as people become more comfortable with face-to-face interactions and resume their lives.

Can People Still Move During Lockdowns?

The answer is yes, people can still relocate during lockdowns, but they must adhere to strict social distancing requirements and other measures in order to do so safely. If you do need to travel and be around strangers, be sure to limit contact with others while still taking the necessary precaution

How Does the Classification of Moving Companies as Essential Businesses Impact Customers?

The classification of relocation companies as essential businesses has had a positive impact on customers. Customers can now be assured that they will have access to a reliable and safe white glove moving service during times of crisis, like the COVID-19 pandemic. This also ensures that customers can complete their move in a timely manner, allowing them to get settled into their new homes with minimal disruption.

What Are the Government Regulations and Guidelines for Moving Companies During the Pandemic?

The US government regulations and guidelines for relocation companies during the pandemic are put in place to ensure that both customers and workers remain safe. Movers must adhere to local, state, and federal requirements, including social distancing, mask-wearing, vehicle disinfection protocols, and regular employee health screenings. Additionally, they should also be sure to wear gloves when handling items and have the proper equipment to safely move customers’ belongings. Relocation companies should also take extra precautions when entering customers’ homes and abide by all CDC guidelines.

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