Updated October 10, 2026
The crew can only move as fast as the apartment lets them. Whether you live in an Astoria walk-up or a Long Island City tower, these five steps the night before and the morning of the move make the day shorter and calmer.
1. Confirm the elevator
Remind the super or the doorman of your move time, and ask if the elevator needs pads. In Long Island City towers the service elevator is usually booked in advance; see our guide to Long Island City high-rise moves.
2. Empty the drawers
Take out heavy and loose things so dressers can be carried safely, especially on narrow stairs. Defrost and empty the fridge the night before, and leave the door open with a towel underneath.
3. Keep these with you
Papers, medicine, jewelry, your laptop, keys and chargers should not ride in the truck. Put them in one bag that stays with you all day.
4. Clear a path
Keep hallways, stairs and doorways free, and move rugs that slide. Kids and pets are safer in one quiet room with the door closed.
5. Last walk-through
Before the truck leaves, check closets, cabinets, outlets and behind doors. It takes five minutes and saves a trip back.
Moving soon?
Call (718) 782-0272 or send the quote form on our home page for a free written estimate. New to the neighborhood? Read our guide to moving to Astoria. We are a family business since 1999, licensed and insured: see our company facts.
The night before
- Defrost and empty the fridge, and leave the door open with a towel underneath.
- Take heavy and loose things out of the drawers.
- Pack the bag that rides with you: papers, medicine, jewelry, laptop, keys and chargers.
- Text the super or the doorman your move time.
- Set aside cleaning supplies, toilet paper and a box cutter for the new place.
On the morning itself, keep your phone charged and stay reachable. The crew may need to ask where a piece goes, or the doorman may call about the truck.
At the new place, tell the crew which room each big piece goes in before they start carrying. A sticky note on each door, matching the labels on your boxes, saves a lot of back and forth.
Common questions
What should I do the night before moving day?
Defrost and empty the fridge, take heavy and loose things out of the drawers, and set aside the bag that rides with you.
What should not go in the moving truck?
Papers, medicine, jewelry, your laptop, keys and chargers. Keep them with you.
What is the last thing to do before the truck leaves?
A walk-through: check closets, cabinets, outlets and behind doors.
Should kids and pets be in the apartment during the move?
It is safer to keep them in one quiet room with the door closed, or with a friend for the day.
Do I need to confirm the elevator again on moving day?
Yes, remind the super or the doorman of your time and ask if the elevator needs pads.