1. Confirm building rules before scheduling
Ask both property managers for permitted move hours, elevator procedures, loading instructions, hallway or floor-protection rules, and any certificate-of-insurance requirements. Reserve a freight elevator when required and obtain written confirmation. Check whether you need separate reservations at the origin and destination, how long each reservation lasts, and where movers may enter. Share these instructions when requesting apartment moving details so the proposed plan reflects the actual access conditions.
2. Plan the route from truck to apartment
Confirm the approved loading area and whether a truck may legally occupy it. The City of Raleigh administers parking permits and related curb-use rules, so verify requirements for the specific space rather than assuming temporary loading is allowed. Walk the full carrying route and note stairs, elevator size, long hallways, gates, call boxes and walking distance. Measure door openings, hallway widths, elevator doors and tight stair turns. Compare those dimensions with sofas, bed frames, appliances and other large pieces; identify anything that may need disassembly before arrival.
3. Record condition and prepare access
Before moving begins, take dated photos or video of the apartment, doors, walls, floors, elevators, hallways and loading area. Capture existing scratches or damage clearly, then repeat the process after the move. Arrange floor or corner protection as required by the building. Confirm who will provide keys, fobs, gate codes and elevator access. Keep those items with you instead of packing them, and identify an on-site contact for each property in case access fails.
4. Coordinate the final handoff
Schedule utility start and stop dates carefully so essential services remain available during loading, cleaning and arrival. Follow each property’s process for returning keys, collecting new credentials, completing inspections and documenting meter readings when applicable. Before leaving, check closets, cabinets, storage areas, balconies and parking spaces. Confirm that doors and windows are secured and that required keys or fobs reach the correct recipient. If you are requesting a written quote, include both addresses, your date, inventory, stairs, elevator reservations, carrying distance, parking restrictions, packing needs and oversized items.