Apartment moves have an extra layer that house moves do not: the building. Elevators, loading zones, insurance requirements, and move-in windows can trip you up if you find out about them the day of. Handle them early and the move itself is the easy part.
Sort out the building first
- Ask management about move-in and move-out hours and any reserved windows.
- Find out if the building requires a certificate of insurance (COI) from your movers.
- Reserve the elevator or freight elevator if there is one.
- Confirm where the truck can park and how long the carry is to your door.
Two to three weeks out
- Book movers and give them your building's rules and any COI request.
- Give notice to your current landlord in writing, and check the terms for your deposit.
- Schedule utilities and internet for the new place.
- Start packing the closet, storage, and anything you are not using daily.
Protect your deposit
- Take dated photos of the empty unit after you move out.
- Patch small nail holes and clean the appliances.
- Return all keys, fobs, and remotes, and get written confirmation.
Common mistakes
- Not asking about a COI until move day, then getting turned away at the door.
- Missing the building's move-in window and having to reschedule.
- Assuming there will be parking near the entrance when there is not.
- Forgetting move-out photos and losing part of the deposit.
When to hire movers
Stairs, elevator windows, and tight parking are exactly where a crew earns its cost on an apartment move. Our apartment movers handle the COI paperwork, work around your reserved elevator time, and carry the heavy pieces so a third-floor move does not eat your whole day.
Estimated time
Building paperwork is best started two to three weeks out. The move itself is often a few hours for a studio or one-bedroom, longer with stairs.
Local note: Many apartment communities near the Valencia Town Center require a COI and have set move-in hours, so ask the office early and we will get the paperwork over before your date.