Apartment moves look small on paper, but they often take longer than people expect. Walk-up stairs, tight hallways, small elevators and limited parking all add time. In Rochester, where many apartments are in older converted houses and leases often end on the same day, a little planning makes a big difference.
1. Book early for end-of-month dates
Most leases in Rochester start and end on the first of the month, and student leases turn over around graduation and the start of the semester. Those days book up first, so call movers as soon as you know your date.
2. Check your building’s moving rules
Many complexes set move-in and move-out hours, require elevator reservations, or ask movers for a certificate of insurance. Ask your property manager early and pass the details to your movers.
3. Reserve the elevator
If your building has an elevator, reserve it for move day and ask whether it has pads for the walls. A shared elevator during a busy hour can add a lot of time.
4. Plan parking for the truck
Find the closest legal spot for a truck. On city streets, check for parking restrictions and winter parking rules. The shorter the walk from the door to the truck, the faster and cheaper the move.
5. Measure big furniture and doorways
Measure your couch, bed frame and dressers, and measure doors, stair turns and hallways at the new place. Many pieces need to be taken apart to fit through older doorways.
6. Tell your movers about stairs
Stairs are the biggest factor in an apartment move. Let your movers know how many flights there are at both addresses so they can send the right crew and give you an accurate estimate.
7. Declutter before you pack
Apartments fill up quickly. Sell or donate what you will not use, especially bulky furniture that may not fit the new space.
8. Pack and label by room
Pack everything before move day and label every box with the room it goes to. Our room-by-room packing guide shows how to pack each room.
9. Protect your deposit
Take photos of the apartment before and after you move out. Movers protect floors and door frames, but photos help if there is ever a question about damage.
10. Keep an essentials bag
Pack a bag with chargers, toiletries, medication, a change of clothes and important documents, and keep it with you.
Do you need full movers or just help?
For most walk-up and elevator moves, a full-service crew is the fastest option. Our apartment moving service handles stairs, tight halls and building rules. If you already have a rental truck and need help with the heavy lifting, see our moving labor service.
Ready to book? Call Moving Company Rochester at (585) 555-0183 or book online in two minutes.