Flats, Estates & Access
Lifts, loading bays, concierge rules and long internal carries can add more time than the drive across London.
The building can be the hardest part of the move.Plan the route from van to front door.Ask how the building handles moves
Managed developments may require a booking with concierge, proof of insurance, a lift reservation or a specific loading bay. Ask before the move rather than discovering the process when the van arrives.
Measure the lift
A lift is only useful if the furniture fits. Check door width, internal dimensions and whether the lift can be reserved for continuous use during the move.
Estate barriers and gated access
Some estates use height restrictions, coded gates, permits or security check-in. Give us the instructions in advance so the driver is not searching for access while the booking time is running.
Long internal carries
A van may be parked legally but still be far from the apartment. Courtyards, podium levels, basement loading bays and long corridors should be mentioned because they change the amount of carrying.
Related London guides
Plan the next part
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Should I book the lift?
If building management offers a move-in slot or lift booking, arrange it for the moving window.
What if the van cannot enter the estate?
Tell us the nearest legal loading point and carrying distance.
Do you need concierge details?
Yes, especially where the mover needs to sign in, collect a key or use a service entrance.
Building logistics
Plan every controlled point between the van and the flat
Managed buildings can have several separate access rules: vehicle entry, loading bay, security desk, service lift and the final apartment corridor.
Concierge and security
Some developments require the moving company to sign in, provide vehicle details or show proof of insurance. Ask the building manager what is needed and forward the instructions before moving day.
Service lifts
A passenger lift may not be available for removals. If a service lift exists, confirm the booking window, internal dimensions and whether protective padding is provided by the building.
Loading bays and basement access
Underground loading can be convenient but only when the van fits. Check height restrictions, turning space and whether the vehicle must be registered in advance.
Long internal carries
Modern developments can have large podiums, courtyards and corridors. Even when the van is parked legally, the team may need to carry every item a considerable distance before reaching the lift.
Estate gates and fobs
If vehicle or pedestrian access uses a fob, code or remote gate, make sure somebody can open it continuously while the team is moving items. A locked gate between every trip quickly adds time.
Protect shared areas
Some management companies require lift, wall or floor protection. Clarify who supplies it and whether setup time is included in the building slot.
Flat-move toolkit
Plan the street and the building together
Moving in London?
Send both postcodes, inventory or photos and access details for a clear quotation.