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Apartment & Buildings 6 min read

Apartment Moving in DC: COIs, Freight Elevators & Permits

DC apartment moves live and die on building logistics. Get the COI, elevator, and permit pieces right and the rest is easy.

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Certificates of Insurance (COIs)

Most DC apartment buildings require your movers to submit a COI before move day — proof the crew is licensed and insured, often naming the building as additional insured. Ask both your old and new management early; we'll prepare the paperwork from their requirements.

Freight elevators and loading docks

Reserve the freight elevator and dock for a specific time block, in writing. Shared elevators and short reservation windows are the most common cause of a stressful apartment move.

Parking permits

If there's no dock or driveway, a temporary no-parking permit keeps the truck close to your door. See our DC parking permits guide for the DDOT steps and timing.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How early do I need a COI?

As soon as you know your move date. Buildings often require it days in advance — send us the requirements and we'll handle it.

What if my building has no freight elevator?

We plan for stairs or a passenger elevator and account for it in your flat rate so there's no surprise.

Who reserves the elevator?

You reserve it with building management; we'll tell you the time block we need based on your move size.

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