How Stairs, Elevators and Long-Carry Distances Affect Your Move
Moving day can be a lively challenge. There will be highs and lows and there’s no doubt you will have prepared for the expected. However, some challenges may prove to be a bit more troubling than you might expect. As one of the more memorable scenes from the sitcom Friends demonstrates, stairs and elevators can present unexpected difficulties. Here’s a quick list on how stairs, elevators and long-carry distances can affect your move.
1. Stairs
The word alone strikes fear into the hearts of the DIY mover. It always seems as though heavy furniture is able to squeak by without an inch of space to spare when it comes to moving large objects up and down those pesky stairs. They can prove difficult to navigate.
Often, moving companies will charge more due to the same inconvenience of these stairs. You will likely agree that these fees are reasonable if your move involves bulky items such as a sofa or even, God forbid, a piano. If you live on a higher floor or if you are moving to one, be sure to be prepared for your prospective mover to have stair policies that affect your initial estimate.
2. Elevators
By comparison, the elevator seems like a more user-friendly choice than a flight or multiple flights of stairs. Generally speaking, that is true but the elevator isn’t always a cure-all.
In high rise buildings, you might find that you will need to reserve a service elevator in order to avoid potential conflicts with residents and minimize delays. You might also find that there may be strict time slots for moves. Some residential communities will even require additional elevator padding. If no service elevator is available, then it’s likely that you will be confined to passenger elevators which could affect your moving schedule as it is shared with other residents. This is why you should always check with management well ahead of time and consult with your moving company about any elevator reservations or restrictions. Size limitations may also come into play when an elevator is a necessary part of your move.
3. Long-Carry Distances
Having to haul boxes and possessions further presents an obvious labor consideration. The distance from where movers are able park their truck to your existing or new front door can be another big factor on your moving day. Obviously, the rule of thumb here is “the closer, the better.” However, you need to be aware of any potential issues regarding parking in large apartment communities and how it might create a “long-carry” scenario. Some driveways also present an issue to accommodating a moving truck either due to size, accessibility or incline.
If your moving day comes with stairs, elevators and long-carry distances, let our team of professional movers help. We evaluate your specific move and set the right expectations, so there will be no surprises come moving day. IMS Relocation has been serving Dallas-Fort Worth businesses and residents for over 30 years. Our team of moving experts is always ready to take your call and provide you with a free, no-obligation quote.
