Apartment moving tips
Whether you’re moving into an apartment for the first time or are a seasoned pro, you’ll want to make the process as easy as possible.
Here are some tips to make the move go smoothly:
Consider the timeframe
It’s best to avoid relocating in a hurry so you won’t have to deal with extra costs like fees to break a lease or last-minute travel or moving arrangements.
If you haven’t already found somewhere to live, don’t wait too long to start the search! Finding a new apartment can take time, so allow at least two months to locate the right place.
Confirm move-in or move-out procedures
Make sure to check with management and/or consult your lease for moving-related details like:
- Length of the lease
- Fees for breaking the lease
- Length of notice required to move out (usually 30-60 days)
- Dates and times for picking up or returning keys
- Rules and amenities for loading or unloading such as stairwell or elevator access
- Procedures for apartment inspection before or after moving
- Requirements to get deposits back
If you’re moving out, notify the landlord in writing (unless your complex has other rules) and keep a copy of any communication.
Hire a moving company
For moving across town, asking friends and family for help or renting a moving truck might work well. But if you’re moving long-distance, hiring a moving company with experience in small moves, like Pine Brook NJ Movers, is a great way to make relocating hassle-free. With Pine Brook NJ Movers, you handle the packing and loading, then one of our drivers will pick up the moving equipment and transport it to the new place.
Obtain parking permission
Make sure to get permits or permission for parking the moving equipment in advance to avoid tickets or fines on moving day. Depending on the building, you may need to reserve parking spaces in advance. ReloCubes are designed to fit in a standard parking space and work great for apartment complexes where parking is often limited. If there isn’t space to park the moving equipment, you can schedule loading or unloading at a local service center and save money!
Book personal travel
If you’re moving out of state, be sure to make any personal travel reservations like airfare or hotel (if you’re driving to the new home). Planning ahead can help save money and avoid extra fees for last-minute bookings.
Pack and load your things
Check out our packing and loading advice for ways to protect belongings during transit. Try to be considerate of other residents on moving day by not blocking stairwells or tying up the elevators for too long when loading or unloading. If you’re moving in, wait until everything is inside before unpacking.
Clean the apartment
Giving your apartment a deep clean is much easier when it’s empty. Allow time for some scrubbing after loading stuff when moving out (to help get back your deposit) and be prepared to clean the new place (if needed) before moving in.
Inspect the apartment
Do a walk-through of the place — with the landlord if possible — while it’s empty to locate any damage.
Here’s what to examine:
- Flat surfaces: walls, ceilings, floors, trim, countertops
- Doors and windows
- Accessories: blinds, outlet covers, hinges and knobs
- Appliances: Refrigerator, dishwasher, stove/oven, microwave, garbage disposal, heater, air conditioner, laundry machines, water heater
- Fixtures: ceiling fans, lighting, light switches, electrical outlets, toilets, sinks, tubs, showers (don’t forget the hardware)
Provide a written account and photos of any issues such as stains, holes, scuff marks, broken items or electrical issues to the landlord before moving in or out, and don’t forget to keep a copy for yourself.
Officially change your address
Another big part of moving is updating your address with the post office and other places like banks and credit card companies. To make sure you have every aspect of your move covered, check out our complete moving checklist.
