Moving Day Preparations
Now that the second earnest money check has been submitted, attorney review and the inspection period are complete, and the appraisal is sorted out, it’s time to start preparing for the move!
Hiring Movers & Getting Estimates
Call moving companies now to get estimates and schedule your move. NYC movers tend to get booked up weeks in advance, especially in peak moving seasons (typically late spring to fall), so securing a mover early is key.
If you’re moving from a condo or co-op, be sure to check with your building’s property manager or board president to inquire about any move-out fees, elevator reservations, or any specific move-in/move-out restrictions. Many buildings in NYC require booking the elevator or certain time slots, so it’s best to confirm early.
Moving Details
Make sure to inform the moving company of your floor and whether your building has an elevator or stairs, as this affects how much time the movers need to allocate.
Keep in mind that you must be fully out of the property by the time closing starts, but unfortunately, we often don’t know the exact closing time until a few days before. Therefore, we recommend moving out the day before closing to avoid any last-minute stress. If that’s not possible, plan for your movers to arrive early on the closing day (around 7:00 AM) so you can ensure you’re out by the time closing occurs.
Closing Time
While we can request an AM or PM closing, the exact time is typically determined just a few days before the closing date. Generally, AM closings start between 8 AM and 9 AM, and PM closings are scheduled between 1 PM and 3 PM.
Regardless of which company you choose, we suggest requesting wardrobe boxes for your hanging clothes. Movers can easily move all your hanging items without having to take them off the hangers. This can save you a ton of time when unpacking, as you can simply hang your clothes back up in your new home.
Gathering Moving Supplies
Start gathering boxes and packing materials well in advance. You can often find free boxes on sites like Craigslist. Alternatively, try companies like Uhaul, Uline, or Usedcardboardboxes for a wide selection of supplies.
Pets & Moving
Moving can be very stressful for pets. Consider arranging for your pets to stay with a friend or in a pet daycare for a few days while you settle into your new place. This will help ease their anxiety and allow you to focus on the logistics of your move.
What to Leave Behind
Anything that is attached to the property — such as shelving, curtain rods, or window treatments — must stay with the apartment or house. Everything else is yours to take with you. If you’re unsure about whether certain items should stay or go, don’t hesitate to ask. Taking the wrong items can lead to complications during the final walk-through.