Moving company for downtown Chicago move (apartment, leasing, movers)

[Rebecca319]

My husband and I will be moving to a high-rise in the Streeterville area this Spring. I plan on looking for moving companies online, and thought I would ask our new apartment building lease-office for recommendations. But since this is the first time we've moved to a city location (as opposed to the suburbs), I've got some questions. How do the movers park and unload the truck? I assume I'll need to make arrangements with the leasing office to have the truck backed into a loading dock? There is a service elevator that the movers will use, but I'm wondering about getting the truck parked by the building for unloading. Also, if I have 2-3 men for 3-4 hours, what should I expect to tip them? I realize moving trucks/vans are a daily occurrance in city life, but this is a first to me. Any tips you can give me about the actual move to the city (as opposed to a regular town/suburb move) will be greatly appreciated.

[marothisu]

Originally Posted by Rebecca319

How do the movers park and unload the truck? I assume I'll need to make arrangements with the leasing office to have the truck backed into a loading dock? There is a service elevator that the movers will use, but I'm wondering about getting the truck parked by the building for unloading.

There should be an area near the loading dock for the movers to park. If the movers aren't familiar with the building, then they'll probably ask your door staff (I'm assuming since it's streeterville, you'll have one) and they will show them where to park.

You absolutely need to call your leasing office and set it up with them. Usually service elevators need to be reserved, especially in high rises.

[gomexico]

The building will have rules governing move-in's and move-outs. So the avice to check with the property manager is solid. Where are you moving from? Knowing that will help people offer recommendations regarding specific moving companies.

[Irishtom29]

Arrange a time with building management for the elevator. Everything else--parking the truck, permits--EVERYTHING else- the mover will do if you use a good mover; that's what you pay them for. They'll tell you how long they need the elevator too.

I've used Reebie several times; both cross country and Chicago to Chicago; excellent movers.

[Lookout Kid]

Assuming you are moving from within Chicagoland, go with New City Movers. I used them twice this year, and they were great. They have about a thousand positive Yelp reviews as well.

http://www.newcitymovers.com/

[chicagohunter]

If you need another moving option I have always had a positive experience with 2 men and a truck in this area. You pay an hourly rate x # of men so have it done with 4 + movers - they will make quick work of it. Moving in urban situations can be particularly stressful so speed with which you can get it done would be a priority for me.