The Ultimate NYC Moving Checklist: From 8 Weeks Out to Moving Day

Moving is stressful anywhere, but moving in New York City is a unique beast. You aren't just dealing with cardboard and tape; you're battling 5th-floor walk-ups, strict Co-op boards, alternate side parking, and the dreaded Certificate of Insurance (COI).

Whether you are moving from a studio in the East Village to a one-bedroom in Astoria, or relocating to the city for the first time, you need a plan that is as tough as the city itself.

Bookmark this page. This is the only timeline you will need.

8 Weeks Out: The Purge & The Plan

• Define Your Budget: NYC moves are expensive. Factor in first month’s rent, security deposit, broker fees (if applicable), and mover costs (typically $1,000–$3,000 for local moves).

• The Great Purge: NYC apartments are small. Do not pay to move things you don't need. Donate clothes, sell furniture on Facebook Marketplace, or list items on your neighborhood "Buy Nothing" group.

• Give Notice: Check your current lease. Most landlords require 30 to 60 days' notice. Send it in writing.

• Start the Search: If you haven't found your new place yet, create a Desire on get.apartments to have landlords apply to you with off-market deals.

6 Weeks Out: Booking & Logistics

• Hire Movers: Good NYC movers book up fast, especially for month-end dates. Get 3 quotes.

  • Pro Tip: Ask specifically if they have experience with walk-ups if you are moving into one.

• Request the COI: If you are moving into a building with an elevator or doorman, they will almost certainly require a Certificate of Insurance (COI) from your moving company. Ask your new building management for a sample COI and send it to your movers immediately.

• Measure Your Furniture: Will that sectional actually fit through the door of a pre-war building? Measure the hallways and doorways of your new place now.

4 Weeks Out: Supplies & Utilities

• Order Supplies: Don't scavenge for bodega boxes (roach risk!). Buy proper moving boxes, packing paper, and heavy-duty tape.

  • Green Tip: Rent plastic moving bins from companies like Gorilla Bins or Bin It. They deliver and pick up.

• Set Up Utilities:

  • ConEd (Electric/Gas): Schedule service stop at the old place and start at the new place.

  • National Grid: If you have cooking gas separate from electric.

  • Internet: Schedule your installation appointment now. Slots for Verizon Fios or Spectrum fill up weeks in advance.

2 Weeks Out: The "Building" Phase

• Reserve the Freight Elevator: This is critical. Many buildings only allow moves between 9 AM and 4 PM on weekdays. If you show up without a reservation, they will turn your movers away.

• Confirm the COI: Verify that your new building management has received and approved the COI from your movers.

• Change of Address: Update USPS, your bank, employer, and credit cards.

• Eat Your Pantry: Stop buying groceries. Eat the pasta, the frozen dumplings, and the canned beans.

1 Week Out: Final Prep

• Pack the "Essentials" Bag: Pack a suitcase as if you are going on a 3-day trip. Include:

  • Toiletries & Towel

  • 3 days of clothes

  • Phone chargers

  • Laptop

  • Important documents (Lease, Passport, SSN card)

  • Cash for Tips: Get cash now. Standard tip is 15-20% of the total move cost, divided among the crew.

• Confirm Details: Call the movers one last time to confirm arrival time and address.

Moving Day: The Execution

• Protect the Floors: If your building requires masonite floor protection, ensure the movers lay it down first.

• Do the Walkthrough: Before you leave the old place, take photos of every room to prove it’s broom-swept and undamaged (essential for getting your security deposit back).

• Direct Traffic: Stand by the door at the new place to tell movers which room each box goes into.

• Tip the Crew: Hand the cash tips to each mover individually at the end of the job.

Post-Move: Settling In

• Check the Detectors: Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors immediately.

• Update Your ID: If you moved boroughs or states, schedule a DMV appointment to update your license.

• Explore: Find your new bodega, your late-night slice shop, and your nearest laundromat.

Welcome home!