Condo Moving Tips

With the spring market upon us, many buyers, sellers and renters are preparing for a move. While moving day can be very exciting, it can also bring with it a lot of stress. Here are some tips that will better prepare you for moving day and help to make the transition a little easier.

Before Moving Day

• When looking for a mover, inquire about potential surcharges for moving heavier items such as larger TVs and pianos, or whether you’ll be charged for movers’ traveling time and/or lunch breaks. Movers are typically paid by the hour, so budget with a buffer of about 1-2 hours and don’t forget to include tips!

• If having immediate access to internet, television or a landline is important, call to schedule an appointment with your service provider(s) ahead of time to ensure that the required services will be set up when you want, as it can sometimes take a few days to secure an appointment.

• Consider setting aside any unwanted tarps, rags or flattened boxes to cover flooring or walls and minimize damage during the move.  Ensure that anything laid down on the floor is not slippery to avoid accidents and injuries (or potential lawsuits!)
  
  

• Book the moving elevator with your condo’s property management office as early as possible. This is especially important if you’re moving at the beginning or end of a month, or if you’re moving into a new building, when traffic tends to be higher. Consider reserving a longer time slot where possible to account for any unexpected setbacks, and remember to book an elevator for both your new and old condo buildings if applicable.

• Take measurements of your new home so that you can plan the placement of your furniture in advance.  If you’re moving into a newly completed condo building, be prepared for ongoing construction and potentially unfinished amenities and common areas.

Packing Tips

• Label all boxes and furniture with the appropriate room name to eliminate any guesswork for the movers. This includes any items going into a storage locker.

• Number all boxes and keep a running list of their respective contents. You can use this as a checklist on moving day to ensure that all boxes are accounted for, and the list of contents will help you prioritize when unpacking.

• Clothing normally stored in a closet or wardrobe can be kept on hangers and packed away folded in a box, or hung up in a wardrobe box which your movers may be able to provide. This makes for a quick and simple unpack.

• Set aside a few key items so that they will be readily available on moving day:

1. Basic cleaning supplies;
2. A roll of packing tape, extra boxes and a marker for any last minute items that may need to be packed;
3. Measuring tape in case any finessing of furniture placement is required;
4. A few rolls of toilet paper, hand soap and other frequently used toiletries;
5. A clean, fresh outfit to wear the next day in case respective clothing boxes have yet to be unpacked;
6. Frequently used items such as battery chargers for mobile phones;
7. Snacks and refreshments – it’s going to be a long day and you’ll be glad to have some sustenance on-hand!