Your Guide to Downsizing: Moving to an Apartment or Condo

Essential Moving Tips

• Communicate with Building Management

• Secure Convenient Parking

• Moving to a Building with Stairs

• Moving to a Building with Elevator

• Move During Low Traffic Times

• Pack a First Night Bag

  
  

1. Communicate With Building Management

Before moving day, discuss your plans with building management. This way, they can reserve an elevator for you. If your new building lacks elevators, management might allow you to use service entrances or other helpful facilities. If they permit it, stair dollies can be a lifesaver for moving heavy items up and down stairs. Not all property managers allow this, so it's crucial to communicate with them ahead of time. This preparation can save you from tricky situations on moving day.

2. Secure Convenient Parking

Many condos have strict security policies. Therefore, it's wise to prepare for your moving day. Speak with building management to secure parking spots. This will help you avoid scheduling conflicts with other residents. They may reserve spots for you and provide access codes, entry fobs, or signage. Look for loading docks or truck zones with the required height limits for underground and aboveground parking. Choose a spot close to your apartment to minimize the distance between the moving truck and your new home. This ensures a peaceful and less stressful move.

Moving with Stairs

3. Moving into or out of a Building with Stairs

Moving without an elevator can be challenging, but we have some great tips to make it easier for you.

Make a Condo and Apartment Checklist

Moving can get hectic, so it's essential to stay on top of important reminders. Looking for a quick, ready-made checklist? You can download our Condo and Apartment Moving PDF.

Plan 4-5 Weeks in Advance

Preparation is key for a successful moving day. Set your plan well in advance to account for unexpected delays. Start packing your belongings at least 2-3 weeks before moving day. This time can also be used for decluttering and donating items you no longer need, making room for your new home.

Conduct a Walkthrough

Before moving, do a walkthrough of the building you're leaving or entering. This will help you set a communication plan and layout for your movers.

Check for Hanging and Protruding Fixtures

Ensure there are no hanging or wall light fixtures that might get damaged or obstruct your path. Pay attention to tight corners and low ceilings that could complicate moving heavy pieces.

Measure Your Belongings

Measure all large items, like furniture, before moving. Note the height, length, and width of each piece. Protect items that might stick out, and keep these measurements in mind when navigating doorways or stairwells.

Disassemble Large Items

If any items are too large to fit through doorways or stairwells, disassemble them. Keep small screws or pieces in a labeled bag for easy assembly later.

Pack in Smaller Boxes

Distribute the weight of your belongings across smaller boxes. This makes them lighter and easier to manage, speeding up the moving process down the stairs.

Movers using an elevator to transport boxes

4. Moving to a Building with an Elevator

Discuss your moving day and time with building management so they can reserve an elevator for you. Inform them 2-3 weeks in advance to ensure availability for you and your movers.

5. Move During Low Traffic Times

If possible, schedule your move during times with less foot traffic. Weekdays when people are at work are ideal. Avoid peak hours, which can lead to more congestion in stairwells, hallways, and elevators. Early mornings on weekends or midweek days can make your move less stressful and prevent blocking your neighbors.

Don't get stuck in traffic on your moving day. Try to avoid high-traffic times, road closures, construction, or major local events. Starting your move early in the morning, before the city wakes up, can help you avoid delays. Steer clear of rush hour times: 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

6. Pack a First Night Bag

You've arrived at your new home, and now it’s time to unpack. Prepare a first night bag to keep all your essentials in a secure spot. Your bag should include chargers, a pair of clean clothes, toiletries, medications, important documents in an envelope, IDs, and emergency contacts.

Conclusion: Make Your Move Stress-Free

Moving can be a daunting task, but with the right planning and preparation, it can be a smooth experience. At Atop Movers, we understand the challenges of relocating, and we’re here to help. Our friendly team is dedicated to making your move stress-free and easy.

Ready to make a move? Get in touch today for an obligation-free guaranteed flat price moving quote.

Call Us Today: (437) 215-1809

Get Your Free Quote: https://www.atopmovers.com/

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