Five questions to ask before an apartment move
Check elevator reservations, parking, building documents, stairs and furniture access at both apartments before booking your move.
Which moving hours and elevator rules apply?
Ask each property manager about permitted moving hours, elevator reservations and loading entrances. Find out whether the elevator is shared or reserved and what happens if you miss the time slot.
Give the mover the actual booking window. Include time needed to get furniture between the apartment and the loading area.
Where can the truck stop?
Check the building’s loading area or parking instructions at both ends. Tell the mover if the entrance is behind the building, reached through a courtyard or far from the truck.
Confirm who arranges any required parking permission. Avoid relying on an empty space being available on the day.
Does the building require documents in advance?
Some buildings ask for a certificate of insurance or other moving paperwork. Get the exact requirements and deadline from the property manager, then ask the mover whether it can provide what is required.
Send the building contact information before booking. A general statement about insurance does not confirm that a specific building’s requirements have been met.
Will the larger furniture fit?
Photograph narrow doorways, hallway turns, stair landings and the elevator. Share measurements for large pieces, including a sofa or bed frame that may need to come apart.
Confirm disassembly and reassembly before moving day. Check the route into the new apartment as carefully as the route out of the old one.
Who will provide access at each end?
Arrange keys, fobs, elevator access and a phone contact. Check whether someone must remain at the old building while another person opens the new one.
Tell the mover about stairs even when an elevator is available. If the elevator becomes unavailable, contact the crew so the work and timing can be reviewed.