Moving companies face challenges when gaining access to homes and apartments during a move. It is, however, possible for homeowners and renters to ensure moving crews have safe access to their property.
These tips will help you overcome the most significant barriers movers face during household moves.
1. Maintain Safe Driveways and Walkways
Things like uneven surfaces and loose rocks pose risks when accessing a home. For instance, the ground shifts, the asphalt deteriorates, and driveways can crack. Your moving estimator can take steps to deal with these situations, so point them out. These are particularly important in older neighborhoods. Reduce risks to moving crews and property by ensuring everyone is aware.
2. Remove Leaves, Snow, and Ice From the Curbside
A significant challenge during fall and winter, especially in northern states, is leaves and snow piles along the curb.
Clearing the area will help the move go more smoothly and safely. When wet, leaves can be extremely slippery, posing a hazard to those walking on them. Even leaves that appear dry may have moisture beneath.
Having snow on the ground is an obvious obstacle, as the moving van may need help to pull close enough to the curb to allow cars to pass. The movers may also have difficulty transporting items to the truck due to snow piles. The street should be clear enough to park, and the movers must be able to reach the residence from the road.
3. Provide Street Access
Keeping a moving van on the street for extended periods may require permits in some cities and towns. Since moving vans qualify as large vehicles, you must ensure that you have the correct authorization. It may be necessary to park the moving van too far away from the moving location, or in some cases, it may not be allowed to park there at all, depending on your permit. Inquire about it with your movers.
Depending on your situation, you may need to ask neighbors ahead of time to keep the street clear to allow room for the moving truck. This applies to your current home and your new one.
4. Ensure Building Access
Generally, building management sets moving times for apartments and condos and requires movers to reserve elevators and loading dock access in advance. To ensure moves can take place smoothly, contact building management to learn about the requirements and schedule your move when loading docks and elevators are available.
5. Consider Other Factors
Look for anything that may cause a hazard along the route the movers will take between your home and the moving truck. For example, you can assist movers by pointing out hard landscaping and exposed roots.
Remove other items before the movers arrive, such as children’s toys and downed branches.
Moving Smart
In addition to hiring movers, you can help speed up your move by ensuring safe access between your residence and the moving van.
We will provide you with a free estimate if you plan a move. Contact us today.