The Coronavirus pandemic is real and it’s unlike anything our generation has ever seen or will ever see. Not only has the outbreak drastically affected travel and freedom of movement, but it has also affected jobs, livelihoods and thrown the global economy into turmoil.
Throughout the chaos and changing guidelines issued by relevant authorities on the COVID-19 crisis, life must still go on and some level of normality must be maintained which means households still have to move. Some businesses are taking advantage of the situation to relocate offices because there is minimal business disruption at the moment while others are temporarily shutting down and putting items in storage due to the deteriorating business climate.
These are the most common queries we’ve been getting regarding the pandemic include:
- Are moving companies’ essential services?
- Can I move during this time?
- Is it safe to move with the Coronavirus out there and what should I do?
- What safety measures is Nellions taking to ensure the movers do not spread the virus?
If you’re facing the daunting challenge of moving during the Coronavirus crisis, rest easy: Moving companies are still able to offer relocation services until a lockdown order is issued by the Government of Kenya and are taking a range of precautions to ensure your move is easy, safe, and virus-free.
Here’s an overview of what you should know about how Coronavirus is affecting relocating, what movers are doing during this unprecedented crisis, and what you can do to make your move safer and easier.
Remember that guidelines and government orders are changing rapidly and all of us need to check with the official government websites for up-to-date information. (all information herein is as of the date of this post)
Is Moving Considered an Essential Service in Kenya?
Technically, no. In Kenya, Movers do NOT fall under the list of essential services despite them being categorized under “transport & logistics” and not as a category of their own. Therefore, this means that in case of a lockdown, Moving companies will halt offering moving services until the situation changes.
A lot of people are wondering “Can I move with this pandemic out there?”
Yes, you can move, but you need to be very keen to follow the recommended guidelines by health officials regarding hand washing, social distancing, wearing masks and other practices. At the same time, it is important for us to emphasize the need to have only one contact person from the client during the move. Avoid having the entire family/office getting involved.
While moving can be completely safe during the pandemic, Movers are encouraging some consumers to postpone their move if possible. Your health and the health of your family is important. i.e. If you are in what is now considered the vulnerable group: aged 60+ and/or have a weak immune system, it is safest for you to schedule your move after this pandemic ends if possible.
Please be aware that movers are considered low-risk spreaders in reference to the transmission of the Coronavirus. Our moving crews typically only move one client per day and are able to maintain the appropriate social distancing during the move.
Responsible moving companies in Kenya are taking a number of steps to mitigate the risk of spreading Coronavirus during a move, including some steps recommended by the Ministry of Health in Kenya and the World Health Organization. Always ask the salesperson what steps their company is taking to reduce the risk and check the information moving companies are sharing on its digital platforms including websites and on social media – this will go a long way in helping you select your mover.
Professional movers across the globe are implementing some measures to manage risks associated with COVID-19, including:
- No handshakes
- Providing online pre-move survey facilities rather than in-person visits.
- Practicing good hygiene with frequent hand washing
- Movers wearing masks and hand sanitizing during moves
- Social distancing or maintaining at least 6 feet of space from the client
- Providing transport for their movers to avoid the use of public means (matatus, boda bodas, buses)
- Checking on the health of their employees
Here’s a more in-depth look at some of the measures that Nellions has implemented to keep you safe during your relocation:
1. Virtual Video Surveys
One of the most crucial steps we are taking to promote social distancing is replacing traditional on-site moving surveys with Video surveys.
Moving companies don’t need to come to your home to assess your moving and storage needs. Video technology eliminates the need for a face-to-face meeting while still ensuring that you receive an accurate moving quotation.
2. Expanded In-House Sanitation
We are increasing sanitation and housekeeping for offices, moving trucks and warehouses. This includes frequent disinfecting of keypads, restrooms, countertops, trucks and door handles. We are also discouraging visits from non-essential visitors.
3. Pre-Move Wellness Checks for Clients & Movers
If you or anyone in your home has or may have contracted Coronavirus or are isolating due to exposure, we encourage you to inform us (or your preferred mover) before the move. Depending on the circumstances and movers, they may be able to work with you or postpone your move to mitigate the risk for team members and other clients.
We may also contact you ahead of your move to ask if you feel ill or suspect to have had contact with someone infected with the virus.
Most moving companies have also taken steps to perform wellness checks on team members. Staff who feel ill (not necessarily with coronavirus symptoms) are instructed not to come to work.
4. Provide Hand Washing and Disinfection Supplies for Movers
Professional moving companies are providing their movers with liquid hand wash and sanitizers to sanitize themselves regularly. They are taking a step further by sensitizing their staff on the importance of personal hygiene during this period.
5. Avoiding Public Transport
Nellions is further providing alternative means of transport for our staff for their work commutes. Our moving trucks are fitted with sitting areas that ensure the movers’ comfort during transit. This significantly reduces the risk of infection as a result of using public transport.
Preparing for Your Move during this Epidemic
In order to make your move smooth, easy and safe, there are many steps that you can take to prepare your home for the movers, maintain a safe distance, and mitigate the risks of spreading Coronavirus.
1. Select your Mover wisely
This is not the time to take chances with which company you pick to handle your move. You need to do a thorough background check into their coronavirus precautionary measures before making your commitment. As we have always said before, the Kenyan moving industry is not regulated by law, which means good moving practices are mainly based on the voluntary professional ethos espoused by individual companies.
2. Provide running water and a sink for the Movers
Nellions’ movers are equipped with handwashing supplies and sanitizers. However, we are requesting that you provide them with a sink and running water where they can sanitize regularly.
3. Practice Safe Hygiene Measures
We highly recommend that you follow the safety precautionary measures issued by WHO and GoK.
4. Be Prepared to receive the movers
When the moving team arrives, it is helpful to leave open doorways and windows in your home to improve indoor ventilation. Better ventilation helps control cross-infection by diluting or reducing airborne contaminated droplets.
5. Arrange for the truck’s parking space
If you live in an apartment block, chances are that many parking spaces will be taken as many people are working from home. The movers would like to do their job in the shortest time possible and so is your wish. Please make prior arrangements for the moving truck to park in advance.
6. Consider Buying carton Boxes in Advance
A good moving company will do all the best to come with very clean packing materials especially during these times. However, for your own peace of mind, you might consider personally packing some of your very personal items like clothes, linen, etc. You can purchase some boxes before the move and get packing beforehand.
7. Sanitize Your Belongings
Do your best to sanitize your belongings and keep them germ-free by sealing them in bags and boxes. Pay attention to items and surfaces that get touched frequently. Remember to wash your hands frequently throughout the move and limit outside exposure to your goods while in transit.
In Kenya, very many people are already suffering due to a lack of money since the coronavirus pandemic struck home. Think about the hawkers who can’t sell anymore, the barbers, the hairstylists, bartenders, watu wa mjengo, mama fua, and many others. All these categories of people were running their lives well before this crisis but are now already suffering. And it’s only going to get worse. This is also a time to remember the needy in our community and how we can help them so their fates don’t worsen than they have to. If you have more than you need in your pantry, consider donating foodstuff to our suffering Kenyan community during the move. May God bless you.
