Table of contents
The two-week building-side checklist
- Request the building's Certificate of Insurance (COI) template — specific additional insureds, limits, and expiration date
- Reserve the freight elevator with start and end times (building will usually hold it with a padded cover)
- Confirm move-in/move-out hours (most buildings allow Mon–Sat, 9 AM–5 PM)
- Read the HOA moving policy — some buildings charge a refundable move-in deposit ($200–$500)
- Confirm truck size limits — some covered driveways cap at 12–13 ft tall
Parking and loading zone permits by city
| City | Permit required? | How to request |
|---|---|---|
| Miami Beach | Yes, for street parking | Miami Beach Parking Department, 3–5 business days |
| Miami | Sometimes (by district) | Solid Waste — call 311 |
| Fort Lauderdale | Yes for downtown/Las Olas | City Parking Services, 5 business days |
| Hollywood | Generally no | Notify building only |
| Boca Raton | Generally no | Confirm with HOA / condo |
| West Palm Beach | Yes for downtown | City Parking, 3–5 business days |
Labeling for South Florida condo moves
Because elevator time is capped (most buildings give you 4 hours), a clear labeling system keeps the crew efficient: number each room in the new unit and write the number on every box and piece of furniture. Crews can walk off the elevator, see the number, and place the box without a foreman's direction.
Hurricane season considerations (June–November)
- Avoid booking the last two weeks of August / first two weeks of September (historically highest storm probability)
- Confirm the mover's contingency policy if a named storm forms inside 72 hours of move day
- Hurricane shutters inside the unit add 1–2 hours to the move — disclose at the estimate
- Storage-in-transit is often sold out in storm season; book 4+ weeks early if you need a bridge
Frequently asked questions
What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI)?
A document issued by your mover's insurance carrier listing the building as an additional insured. Most Florida condos require it 3–7 days before move-in. Your mover should issue it at no charge once you provide the building's template.
Can I move on Sundays in Miami condos?
Most buildings prohibit Sunday moves; some also prohibit federal holidays. Confirm the specific move-in hours in your building's rules document before booking a Sunday date.
Do I need a parking permit for a move in Fort Lauderdale?
In most residential neighborhoods, no. In downtown or Las Olas, yes — request a temporary loading zone permit from City Parking Services 5 business days out.
What size truck can fit in my condo's loading dock?
Most Miami-Dade and Broward condo loading areas cap at 12'6" clearance. Confirm with building management before the estimate; a shuttle from a standard 26-ft truck to a smaller one adds a shuttle fee.
Sources & further reading
- Miami Beach Parking Department ↗
City of Miami Beach
- Fort Lauderdale Parking Services ↗
City of Fort Lauderdale
