Moving into or out of a New York City apartment is a task unlike any other. From navigating narrow staircases and service elevators to understanding building regulations and parking restrictions, NYC presents its unique moving challenges. Whether you’re heading to a high-rise in Manhattan or a walk-up in Brooklyn, hiring the right movers can make or break your experience.

Before you sign a contract, here are the top things to know about hiring NYC apartment movers.

1. Know Your Building’s Moving Requirements

One of the first steps in planning your move is checking with your building management. Many NYC buildings—especially co-ops, condos, and large rental complexes—have strict moving policies. These can include:

• Requiring a Certificate of Insurance (COI) from the moving company
• Restricting moving hours to weekdays or non-peak times
  Requiring elevator reservations for service elevators

Make sure your movers are experienced with navigating these rules. A reputable NYC moving company like Big John’s Moving should be able to quickly provide documentation and adjust scheduling to match building requirements.

2. Check for Licensing and Insurance

Don’t take a chance on unlicensed movers. NYC movers should be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation and carry proper insurance. This protects you in case of damage, delays, or unexpected issues. Always ask for:

• USDOT number
• Proof of general liability and cargo insurance
• Workers’ compensation coverage

If a moving company hesitates to share this information, consider it a red flag.

3. Understand Pricing Structures

NYC movers often charge by the hour, with a minimum number of hours required. Rates may vary depending on:

• The number of movers assigned
• The size and complexity of your move
• Whether packing or unpacking services are included
• Travel time between locations

Always request a written estimate—and read the fine print. Ask whether the quote includes tolls, supplies, stair fees, or long carry charges, which can add up quickly in city moves.

4. Ask About Experience with Walk-Ups and Tight Spaces

Not all movers are created equal, especially when it comes to maneuvering through fifth-floor walk-ups or buildings with no elevator access. Make sure your movers have experience with NYC’s tight hallways, small elevators, and heavy traffic. Movers who know the city well, like Big John’s Moving, will come prepared with the right tools, dollies, and techniques to get the job done efficiently.

5. Book Early—Especially During Peak Season

Moving in NYC gets competitive during peak times, such as:

• The end and beginning of each month
• Summer months (May through September)
• Holiday weekends

If you’re planning to move during one of these times, it’s wise to book at least 4–6 weeks in advance. Last-minute bookings may cost more or leave you with limited options.

6. Read Reviews and Ask for References

Online reviews can reveal a lot about a company’s reliability, communication, and overall service. Look for consistent praise about professionalism, punctuality, and care for belongings. You can also ask the company for client references if you want extra peace of mind.

Sites like Yelp, Google, and Better Business Bureau (BBB) are good starting points. But don’t just look at star ratings—read the comments to get the full story.

7. Consider Full-Service Options

If your schedule is packed—or you simply want to reduce stress—some NYC movers offer full-service packages that include packing, disassembly, reassembly, and even unpacking. While it costs more, it can save you a tremendous amount of time and effort, especially in a hectic city environment.

Hiring NYC Apartment Movers

Hiring apartment movers in NYC doesn’t have to be stressful, but it does require planning. By understanding your building’s requirements, vetting movers for insurance and experience, and booking early, you can ensure your move goes as smoothly as possible. In a city where every block has its personality, it pays to hire movers who know the terrain—and how to navigate it like pros.

Ready to make your next NYC move? Do your homework, ask the right questions, and you’ll be well on your way to settling into your new home.