It has now been almost a month since the state of alarm was declared due to the pandemic caused by the covid-19 virus worldwide. In the initial days when the first official cases appeared in Spain and the rate of contagion was rising exponentially, alongside the first recommendations from the OMS (WHO), the Spanish government invoked art.162 of the Spanish Constitution and declared a state of alarm by decree (rd 463/2020). As a result, a lockdown was imposed with the overriding priority of safeguarding public health and containing the pandemic. The decree also ordered the suspension of all non-essential activities (public and religious venues, restaurants, cultural and sporting events, leisure, and retail commerce). During the first 15 days of the state of alarm, the transport sector — deemed an essential activity — and the removals sector continued to operate under certain restrictions: services could not be carried out in central metropolitan areas, and using public roads during the lockdown was prohibited. While the law permitted transport activities, the judgement of the competent authorities meant that services were halted on the spot on numerous occasions. Subsequently, following the extension of the state of alarm on 27 March (rd 476/2020) and as the pandemic continued to grow in scale both globally and nationally, the authorities became even more restrictive.
All of this led to the complete suspension of removal services throughout the Canary Islands. Throughout this period, however, we maintained telephone support for all our clients and built up a waiting list. We also kept customers whose services had been booked to coincide with the state of alarm — and whose shipments originated in third countries — informed of the status of their cargo. Finally, following the entry into force on 12 March of (RD 487/2020), the lockdown restrictions on businesses were eased, allowing the resumption of non-essential activities such as ours. We are now attending to all our clients, giving priority to services booked furthest in advance.
Finally, we would like to extend a message of support to all healthcare workers, security forces, and our elderly citizens for their professionalism, their dedication, and their patience throughout the lockdown. Together we will overcome this virus!
Frequently asked questions about removals during a state of alarm
Are removals permitted during a state of alarm?
Yes, removals have always been considered an essential activity when there is a genuine need (end of a rental contract, job relocation, divorce, family emergency). During the pandemic state of alarm (2020), removal companies remained operational under strict health and safety protocols.
What health and safety protocols apply to removals in exceptional circumstances?
Protected teams (FFP2 mask, gloves, frequent disinfection), interpersonal distancing wherever possible, ventilation of spaces during the operation, disinfection of shared boxes, teams always with the same crew (no mixing of workers between operations), preventive antigen tests for staff during periods of high contagion.
Is a permit required to travel during mobility restrictions?
Yes, when restrictions are in place (state of alarm, perimeter lockdowns): the removal company issues a service certificate with your name, origin and destination address, date and reason. As a client, carry your ID document and your contract or proof of the new address (rental agreement, deed, registration certificate). These documents are accepted at police checkpoints as valid justification.
Does the price of a removal change during restriction periods?
Not directly because of the restrictions, but possibly due to: a reduced supply (some companies suspending operations), restrictions on large teams (requiring fewer staff per job), and slower completion times due to protocols. It is best to book FURTHER in advance than usual during exceptional periods to ensure availability.
Is my removal covered if it is cancelled due to force majeure?
It depends on the contract. The standard clause is: if the cause is beyond the control of both the client and the company (a new total lockdown, government-ordered suspension of transport), the contract is postponed without penalty for either party. Some companies refund the deposit, others carry it over to a later date. Ask about specific conditions before signing. More on insurance: permits required for a removal.
