Tell us the floor and lift details
State the floor at both addresses and whether a suitable lift is available. If there is a lift, check its dimensions, weight restrictions, opening hours and whether it must be reserved. If there is no lift, describe the stairs, landings and any narrow turns. The number of floors and the route through the building can have a significant effect on time and handling. Repeat these checks at the destination rather than assuming the access arrangements will be similar.
Check the building rules early
Landlords, managing agents and concierge teams may require advance notice, protective coverings or a particular moving window. Ask whether there are restrictions on using entrances, lifts or loading areas and confirm who must approve the booking. Keep written confirmation available on the day. Where communal doors use fobs, codes or timed access, make sure the person coordinating the move can operate them. Building rules discovered late can delay loading and affect other residents as well as your own timetable.
Plan parking and the carry distance
Find out where a removal vehicle may stop legally and safely. A space visible from the flat may not be available for loading, and underground car parks may have height limits. Explain controlled zones, loading bays, gates and the distance between the stopping point and the entrance. If a permit or bay reservation is needed, agree who will arrange it. Check the destination with the same care, including any route from the vehicle through reception, courtyards, corridors or separate lift cores.
Measure furniture and escape routes
Measure large furniture, doorways, lift openings and the tightest turns on the route out. Do not assume a sofa or wardrobe will leave assembled just because it is already inside; it may have arrived before a later renovation or through a different entrance. Confirm which items will be dismantled and whether that work is included. Keep fittings labelled. Balconies, windows and fire escapes should never be treated as moving routes unless a suitably qualified specialist has assessed and arranged the work.
Protect shared areas
Clear corridors and avoid leaving boxes where they obstruct neighbours or emergency access. Ask the building manager whether floors, walls or lift interiors require protection and who supplies it. Keep noise and door security in mind, especially where the main entrance must not be left unattended. Label boxes clearly so time is not lost deciding where they belong. A well-organised route helps reduce repeated journeys, but safety and building requirements take priority over speed.
Prepare a useful flat-move inventory
List furniture, appliances and box estimates by room, including cupboards, balconies, storage cages and any separate garage. Mention heavy planters, exercise equipment, mirrors and other awkward items. If you are moving into a smaller property, decide what will not be taken before requesting the final quotation. Tell Saints promptly if the inventory changes. The floor, lift and parking information should be kept with the inventory because the belongings and the access together determine the practical scope.
Keep the day coordinated
Confirm keys, lift reservations, parking and the contact person at each building a few days beforehand. Keep medication, documents, valuables and overnight essentials with you. At the new flat, mark rooms or areas clearly and decide where larger items should go before unloading. When the move is complete, check the vehicle, communal route and old storage areas, then compare belongings with your inventory. Report any concern promptly and return building fobs or access devices as required.