Moving within the same apartment building might seem simple but it still requires careful planning. However, it doesn’t have to be stressful. We’re breaking down tips and timelines to help organize your move within the same apartment complex or building.
Table of Contents
Location Differences
The key factor when moving within the same apartment complex or building is the location change. The distance to your new apartment will determine how you prepare. Here are the most common scenarios you might encounter during such a move.
Moving on the Same Floor
Moving on the same floor or apartment level is often the easiest, depending on your apartment’s layout.
If your apartment has entrance doors inside the complex, moving involves simply transporting your items down the hall, without dealing with stairs or going outside.
However, if your apartment has entrance doors on the outside of the building, even a same-floor move may require taking your belongings outside. In some cases, you might need to carry them downstairs and back upstairs if each apartment has a private staircase. This type of move could require the same effort and supplies as moving to a different floor.
Moving to a Different Floor
Moving to a different floor can be challenging, especially if your apartment lacks an elevator. The ease of your move often hinges on this key amenity.
If your apartment has an elevator, it will be your best friend during the move. While you may still have some distance to cover, you won’t have to worry about climbing stairs. To make your elevator trips even easier, consider using a dolly or cart to transport your items.
For apartments without an elevator, the move becomes more difficult. You’ll likely need to make multiple trips up and down the stairs. This type of move is much easier with a team of helpers and plenty of time. More hands means fewer trips for everyone. In this case, remember to take breaks to avoid overexertion or injury from heavy lifting.
Moving Apartment Buildings
Moving to a new building within the same complex can be the hardest to plan, depending on how far apart the buildings are.
If your new building is close by, you might not need a car or rental vehicle. You could carry your items or use a cart or dolly to make the move easier.
However, if the new building is farther away, you may need to use your vehicle or rent a moving truck. Renting a larger vehicle is ideal if you need to move quickly. If you have a few days to complete the move, it might be cheaper to use your own vehicle and make multiple trips.
Packing for Your Move
Packing for your move can be stressful, but you can ease the process by starting early. Pack in small sections to avoid feeling overwhelmed by trying to do it all at once.
Essential Moving Supplies
Here are some essential moving supplies you should buy to help you pack.
- Heavy Duty Packing Tape
- Packing Paper
- Boxes
- Bubble Wrap
- Heavy Duty Trash Bags
You can save money by getting some moving supplies for free. Ask local businesses for cardboard boxes, and use clothes and blankets you already have to cushion items instead of buying packing paper or bubble wrap.
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Check out UniMovers and save 30-50% on your move as compared with traditional moving!
Your Moving Date
Ready to pick your moving date? Here are some important factors to consider.
Choosing When to Move
When moving within the same apartment building, it’s important to consider your moving date. Some apartments have annual contracts that renew during a specific month, while others allow you to move at any time, depending on availability.
Here’s what you should consider when choosing your moving date.
- Contract renewal dates
- Apartment availability
- Time of the year
- Your availability
Moving Timeline
Your moving timeline will vary based on several factors, with the most important being your availability, move-out date, and move-in date.
To get a head start, begin packing whenever you have some free time. This is also a good opportunity to declutter by getting rid of items you no longer want. Taking these steps in advance will ensure you’re ready on move-in day.
Next, determine how many days you have to move your items. Whether you need to complete the move in one day or have a few days, it’s crucial to create a timeline that outlines when you can move.
Apartment Availability
Apartment availability greatly affects your moving schedule. Ideally, having a slight overlap between the contracts for your old and new apartments allows you to move items gradually.
In most cases, you’ll need to move out of your old apartment and into the new one on the same day. While this requires a quick move, planning and packing in advance can make it manageable.
Sometimes, your new apartment may not be ready by the time you need to vacate your old one. In this case, you’ll need to arrange temporary storage for your belongings until your new place is available.
Renting a Storage Unit
When moving within the same apartment complex, you typically won’t need to rent a storage unit. However, there are two situations where it might be necessary:
- If your new apartment isn’t ready by your move-out date.
- If you’re downsizing and need extra space for your belongings.
In either case, renting a storage unit is an additional step in your moving plan. You can easily arrange this ahead of time to ensure a smooth transition.
Hiring a Helping Hand
Looking to make your move easier? Hiring movers is a great solution. Even if you’re moving within the same apartment complex or building, getting extra help can simplify the process.
Labor-Only Movers
Labor-only movers are an excellent option if you need professional help with your move. They specialize in services such as loading and unloading, moving furniture, and assembly or disassembly. Hiring them can reduce your workload and ensure you receive skilled assistance.
Help from Friends and Family
Looking to save some money? Consider asking friends and family for help. Moving doesn’t have to be a solo effort, and enlisting loved ones is a cost-effective way to get extra assistance. You can even return the favor by helping them move in the future!
Moving Out of Your Old Apartment
When moving out of your old apartment, there’s one more task to consider: cleaning. While it might not be enjoyable, it’s crucial for keeping your landlord satisfied and getting your security deposit back.
Make sure to set aside a full day to clean your apartment before moving. Walk through each room and address anything that needs attention. You could also schedule a walkthrough with your landlord to identify any areas that need fixing or cleaning. If cleaning isn’t your thing, consider hiring a cleaning crew if it fits within your budget.
Moving into Your New Apartment
When moving into your new apartment, consider how long the process will take, especially if you’re hiring movers. Here’s a chart based on UniMovers’ rates for loading and unloading assistance.
| Type of Apartment | Apartment Size | Movers Needed | Length of Move | Estimated Cost |
| Studio/Small Apartment | 400-600 square ft | 2 Movers | 3-4 Hours | $360-$480 |
| 1-3 Bedroom Apartment | 700-1200 square ft | 2 Movers | 4-5 Hours | $480-$600 |
| 3+ Bedroom Apartment | 1200+ square ft | 2+ Movers | 5+ Hours | $600+ |
If you don’t hire professional movers, your move will likely take longer. While having family help can save time, they’ll still take longer than professionals. If you move entirely on your own, expect the process to take at least twice as long, and remember to factor in breaks.
Conclusion
Moving within the same apartment complex or building might seem straightforward, but it still requires careful planning and preparation. The specifics will vary depending on your new apartment’s location.
Hiring movers or enlisting extra help can make your move faster and smoother. Packing in advance is another way to get a head start.
Once you have details about your new apartment’s location and your move timing, you can create an effective moving plan. Plan ahead to make your apartment move as easy as possible!
FAQ
The easiest type of apartment move is typically moving on the same floor, especially if your apartment’s front access doors are inside the building. You’ll only need to move your items down the hall.
While renting or buying a dolly or cart isn’t essential, it can significantly ease the move, especially if you’re not hiring movers. Using a cart or dolly makes transporting items easier and more efficient, especially if you need to make multiple trips.
Hiring movers can simplify any move, including moving within the same building. If it fits your budget, it’s worth considering to reduce stress and make the process smoother.
Jessica is a students at the University of Northern Iowa. She is majoring in English Education with a creative writing minor. In her free time she loves to read books of every genre, write short stories, and spend time with friends. In the future she hopes to share her love for reading and writing with her future students.
