Booking the elevator: the checklist
In most buildings with an elevator, booking is mandatory to move. Doing it early avoids billable waiting time — and friction with building management.
1Before booking
- Call the manager or superintendent as soon as the date is known: many buildings allow only one move per day per elevator, and month-ends go fast.
- Ask for the written rules: permitted hours (often 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, sometimes no Sundays), refundable deposit (typically $200 to $500), whether proof of the mover's insurance is required.
- Check the cab dimensions and door height: a fridge, a 3-seat sofa or a very thick queen mattress doesn't fit everywhere. Tell us in advance and we'll plan the stairs or disassembly.
- If the building requires proof of the moving company's liability insurance, ask us: we send it by email within 24 hours.
2On moving day
- Confirm the day before that the booking is recorded and the superintendent will be there to put the elevator "in service" (lock key) and install wall protection.
- Make sure the protective pads and panels are installed before the crew arrives; otherwise our crew protects the cab with our blankets — possible, but it takes 10 to 15 minutes.
- Also reserve the loading dock or a spot at the service entrance. A truck parked 60 metres from the door is 30% more time.
- Warn neighbours on your floor if the hallway will be busy, and keep the apartment door propped open to avoid trips back and forth with the key.
3Mistakes that cost time
- Booking only one elevator when BOTH addresses are in buildings. Make both bookings, at times compatible with the loading duration.
- Booking 9 to 11 a.m. for a two-bedroom: the slot expires mid-load and the crew waits between every trip. Count at least 1 hour per room and a half.
- Forgetting to recover the deposit: inspect the cab with the superintendent right after the last trip, before the crew leaves.
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