Making the decision to move your home and your life from the UK to another corner of the globe is an important and momentous one. Although incredibly exciting, the process is packed with a whole host of challenges – from the emotional impact on you and your family, to the logistical operation required to make the move smooth and enjoyable.
Add to that the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, and it’s easy to become overwhelmed by what should be a joyous and unforgettable occasion.
“As one of the UK’s leading overseas removals specialists, the John Mason International team delights in seeing our customers settle into their new homes abroad – particularly given the huge amount of effort involved in getting them there,” says John Mason International director, Simon Hood.
‘The pandemic presented us with a number of additional considerations to ensure everyone involved adhered to UK and international covid regulations and stayed safe during their moves. From the beginning, we introduced a range of measures – including weekly covid tests for our removals crews, who were also issued with a range of PPE equipment.
“Now, many lockdown restrictions have been lifted in the UK, and the government has asked individuals and companies to take personal responsibility to protect themselves and their clients from the effects of the virus.
“We know that the end of restrictions does not mean we shouldn’t all continue with caution, so the stringent safety measures we introduced at the beginning of the pandemic remain in place.”
John Mason International has also adjusted and improved its planning processes, to ensure those intending to make international moves haven’t been thwarted by lockdown.
“We introduced virtual video surveys, in place of physical surveys in potential customers’ homes – and these were incredibly well-received,” adds Simon.
“Video surveys help to limit physical interaction, and we saw a significant increase in demand for this technological, but simple, approach because it offers the perfect solution for maintaining social distancing.
“Although no longer mandatory, we appreciate that many of our customers feel reassured by the measures we have in place to protect both them and our own team.
“It’s all about ‘best practice’ and, as key members of the British Association of Removers (BAR), we are continuing to operate with all appropriate measures designed to ensure our staff and clients are shielded from the ongoing risk of the virus.
“We also monitor the status, rules and regulations of countries across the world very carefully – so we’re always on-hand to advise our customers on any aspect of their relocation now, and in the future.
“All this cements out commitment to giving our customers the best possible experience in all aspects of their move overseas. This was our motivation before Covid, and it will continue to drive us as we navigate our way successfully through these challenging times.”