Building move rules: elevators, insurance and time windows
In a building the move is scheduled twice, once with the mover and once with the building, and the rule that stops a truck at the door is usually the building's. Where a state publishes requirements about access and move-day timing, they are listed here.
Why access details change the price
- Washington — Washington prices short moves partly on the time it takes to load, move, and unload.
- North Carolina — North Carolina lists shuttle service, long carries, and stairs or elevators in some circumstances among services that can add to the cost of a move.
- Texas — Texas tells consumers to report stairs, long carries, and elevators for an accurate estimate and notes some movers charge extra for them.
Certificates of insurance
- Washington — Washington-permitted movers must meet state insurance standards.
- Washington — Washington's commission says mover's liability is not the same as insurance.
- North Carolina — North Carolina movers must provide a certificate of insurance showing the required coverage, with the customer as certificate holder, on request once the move is booked.
- North Carolina — In North Carolina, what the mover pays on a damage claim depends on the valuation option the customer selects, not the mover's insurance.
Move hours and reservation windows
- Washington — In Washington, requested moves before 8 a.m., after 5 p.m., on weekends, or on state holidays carry a standard four-hour minimum, and overtime may apply.
- North Carolina — North Carolina's commission warns customers that being late can lead to additional charges.
Truck parking and loading
- Federal — Boston offers a permit that reserves a legal spot for a moving truck, and Minneapolis requires a permit to block a street, lane, or sidewalk.
Where these rules come from
- Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission consumer guide to moving
- North Carolina Utilities Commission
- Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
- Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission Tariff 15-C (household goods)
- City of Boston Parking Clerk
- City of Minneapolis obstruction permits
Each rule above applies inside the state named beside it. Other states regulate intrastate moves differently, so confirm the rule where you are moving before you rely on it.