Moving Hacks for Apartment Dwellers: Make the Most of Limited Space!

Apartments often have less storage space, so it’s important to take stock of your belongings before the move. Go room by room and ask yourself what you truly need. Items you haven’t used in the last year or that don’t fit your new space should be donated, sold, or recycled. Decluttering now saves time and effort later, and it ensures you’re not paying to move things you don’t really need. 

Make your furniture work double duty during the move. Pack lighter items, such as clothing or linens, inside drawers, ottomans, or storage beds. Be sure to label these pieces so movers know to handle them carefully. This hack saves you space in moving boxes and reduces the number of items you’ll need to load and unload. 

Square or rectangular containers are easier to stack and maximize space in moving trucks and storage units. Look for options that can double as storage solutions in your new apartment, such as clear bins that fit under the bed or decorative baskets for open shelving. Bonus: You’ll reduce waste by reusing these containers after your move. 

Apartments often lack sprawling square footage, so make use of vertical space both during and after your move. Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes, and stack lightweight items on top of sturdier ones. In your new apartment, consider adding shelving or tall bookcases to keep things organized without taking up valuable floor space. 

Navigating narrow hallways or tight elevator spaces? Opt for smaller, lighter boxes that are easier to carry and maneuver. Label them clearly with the contents and the room they belong to so unpacking is a breeze. For oversized furniture, disassemble items like bed frames or dining tables to fit through doorways more easily. 

If your apartment building has shared amenities like elevators or loading docks, reserve them in advance. Many buildings have specific rules for moving days, including set times or special permits. Confirm these details with your building manager to avoid surprises on moving day. 

Moving supplies can be expensive, and apartments often don’t have room for excess boxes after the move. Use what you already have, like suitcases, laundry baskets, and reusable shopping bags, to pack your belongings. Towels, blankets, and clothing can be used as padding for fragile items, reducing the need for bubble wrap or packing paper. 

If possible, avoid moving during peak hours or days, especially if you live in a busy city. Weekdays and early mornings are usually less hectic, giving you easier access to parking and building amenities. Planning your move during off-peak times can also save you money if you’re hiring movers. 

Before moving day, measure doorways, stairwells, and elevator dimensions in both your current and new apartments. Knowing what will fit—and what won’t—can save you the hassle of dealing with stuck furniture or last-minute disassembly. 

 Not all moving companies are created equal. Look for movers who specialize in apartments and understand the unique challenges they present. At Hoosier Buddy, our team is experienced in navigating tight spaces, ensuring your belongings arrive safely and efficiently, no matter how tricky the move.