Published: June 15, 2025

7 Tips for an Easier Walk-Up Apartment Move

Moving into a walk-up apartment can present unique challenges. Unlike apartments in buildings with elevators, walk-ups require extra planning and effort due to the absence of easy access to higher floors. Whether you’re moving to a new neighborhood or transitioning to a space with better amenities, it’s essential to be prepared for the physical and logistical hurdles that come with carrying your belongings up multiple flights of stairs. Here are seven tips to help ensure your move goes smoothly.

1. Plan Ahead and Set Realistic Expectations

The first step in moving into a walk-up apartment is to set realistic expectations for your move. Unlike buildings with elevators, walk-ups require more time, effort, and people to help with the heavy lifting. It’s essential to understand the physical effort involved. Determine how many flights of stairs you’ll need to ascend and plan accordingly. If you can, visit the building in advance to gauge the height and narrowness of the stairs. This will allow you to assess how large or bulky your furniture is and whether it can fit up the stairs without too much hassle. By visualizing your move, you can better prepare yourself and your helpers.

2. Downsize and Simplify Your Belongings

One of the easiest ways to make your move easier is by downsizing your belongings. Before packing up your entire life, take a close look at your possessions. Do you really need everything you’re planning to bring with you? Moving into a walk-up apartment presents an excellent opportunity to minimize your belongings and focus on only the essentials. Consider donating items that you no longer use or love. Not only does this make your move easier, but it can also reduce the overall cost of your move. The fewer items you need to move, the fewer trips you’ll have to make up those stairs.

3. Rent Portable Storage Containers for Your Walk-Up Apartment Move

When moving into a walk-up apartment, portable storage containers from UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Northern Virginia can make all the difference. Instead of rushing to load everything into a truck on moving day, you can have a container delivered directly to your home and load it at your own pace. This gives you time to sort and pack strategically, which is especially helpful when dealing with stairs and narrow hallways. Once you’re ready, UNITS® will pick up the container and deliver it to your new address, where you can unload without the pressure of a tight moving schedule. It’s a flexible, stress-reducing option that simplifies a tough move.

4. Use Proper Moving Equipment

Having the right equipment can significantly ease the moving process. Invest in sturdy furniture dollies, stair-climbing hand trucks, and moving straps. These tools are designed to handle heavy loads and make carrying furniture up flights of stairs much more manageable. For example, a stair-climbing hand truck can help reduce the strain on your body, while moving straps help distribute the weight of bulky furniture, making it easier to carry. When using these tools, be sure to also pack your belongings securely in boxes to avoid any damage during the move.

5. Coordinate With Building Management

Before your move, reach out to the building management to ask about any specific guidelines or rules they have in place for moving into the building. They may have designated times when moving is allowed, and some buildings even provide additional equipment, such as carts, to assist with the move. Understanding the building’s rules and regulations will help prevent any misunderstandings and make your move-in process smoother. You may also want to confirm whether there’s a freight entrance or a back entrance for larger items to avoid disturbing other tenants.

6. Prepare for the Weather and Elements

The weather can play a significant role in how smoothly your move goes. If you’re moving during a rainy, snowy, or hot day, it can make carrying boxes and furniture up multiple flights of stairs even more challenging. Be prepared for these challenges by checking the weather forecast ahead of time and adjusting your schedule if necessary. On particularly hot or humid days, make sure you and your helpers stay hydrated. In the winter, consider using non-slip footwear to avoid accidents on icy stairs. Additionally, having some extra towels or blankets on hand can help protect your furniture from getting wet or damaged by the elements.

7. Take Frequent Breaks and Stay Safe

Moving into a walk-up apartment can be physically demanding, so don’t overexert yourself. Be sure to take breaks when needed, especially when moving heavy or bulky items. It’s better to take your time than risk injury or exhaustion. If you’re working with a team, communicate frequently to make sure everyone is comfortable and safe. Lift with your legs, not your back, and encourage your helpers to do the same. When you’re carrying heavy furniture up the stairs, it’s important to maintain proper form to prevent injury.

Moving into a walk-up apartment requires careful planning, preparation, and a bit more muscle power compared to moves that involve elevators. By following these seven tips, you can make your move into your new space more manageable and less stressful. From downsizing your belongings to using portable storage, every step you take to plan ahead will pay off in the long run. With the right mindset, equipment, and preparation, your move into a walk-up apartment can be a smooth and successful transition.

For the easiest way to move, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Northern Virginia or call (540) 369-4595 today for a free quote!