Moving in Washington, DC is different from moving almost anywhere else in the region. Most of the work happens before the truck arrives: reserving curb space, meeting your building’s rules and planning how furniture gets up a narrow rowhouse staircase. Here’s what to sort out before move day.
1. Reserve curb space for the moving truck
On most DC blocks there’s nowhere legal for a moving truck to park unless you reserve it. DC’s Department of Transportation (DDOT) offers emergency no-parking permits that let you reserve curb space for a move.
A few things to know:
- Apply early. The signs have to be posted in advance of your move, so don’t leave this to the last few days. Check DDOT’s current rules for lead times and fees when you apply.
- Reserve enough space. A moving truck needs more room than a car. Ask your movers how much curb space to request.
- Plan both ends. If you’re moving within DC, you may need space at both addresses.
If you’re working with M.C. Movers, we’ll walk you through what to request so the truck has a spot.
2. Get your building’s move rules in writing
Most DC apartment, condo and co-op buildings have move rules, and they can be strict. Ask your property manager for:
- Elevator reservations. Many buildings require you to book the freight elevator for a set window.
- Move-in and move-out hours. Some buildings only allow moves on weekdays or during certain hours.
- A certificate of insurance (COI). Many buildings require your movers to send a COI before move day. Send your movers the building’s requirements early so it’s ready in time.
- Deposits and protection rules. Some buildings require a deposit, padded elevators or floor protection in the lobby.
Send these rules to your movers as soon as you have them. A missed elevator window can stall your whole move.
3. Plan for rowhouse stairs
Classic DC rowhouses are beautiful, but they often have steep, narrow staircases and tight turns. Before move day:
- Measure tight spots, especially stairwell turns and bedroom doors.
- Plan to take furniture apart. Beds, tables and some sofas may need to come apart to fit. Good movers handle disassembly and reassembly for you.
- Protect banisters and walls. Make sure your movers pad banisters, door frames and walls.
4. Time your move around traffic
Rush hour, traffic circles and one-way streets slow moving trucks down. Early starts, midday moves or evening and weekend moves can make the day go faster. If your building allows it, an off-hours move can also mean an open elevator.
5. Watch the calendar
Late August and late May are busy in DC, with students moving in and out of Georgetown, GW, Howard, American, Catholic and other schools. The end of each month is busy too. If your date falls in one of these windows, book your movers early.
Moving between DC, Maryland and Virginia
Many DC moves start or end in the suburbs, like Silver Spring, Bethesda, Arlington or Alexandria. Plan for parking and building rules on both ends, and confirm that your movers serve both locations.
Get a guaranteed quote for your DC move
The fastest way to price a DC move is a video quote: film your home, including the stairs and the street out front, and get a guaranteed, all-inclusive price in minutes. Prefer to talk? Call (540) 664-0988.