So you’re moving to a new apartment in Brooklyn?
Congratulations!
While you’re probably very excited to enjoy your new home, you’re probably less excited about packing and moving – especially if you’re renting a moving van for the first time.
If you’re unfamiliar with all of the important info to consider before you rent a moving van, don’t worry!
We’ve put together a few helpful hints to help you be prepared for renting a moving van!
What Type Of Moving Van Do You Need?
Before you rent your moving van, you’ll need to figure out which size van you’ll need.
Taking an inventory of your furniture and various possessions will help you determine the type of moving van you’ll require.
If you don’t have much, you may not need to rent a van. You may be able to pack all of your possessions in your own vehicle or a friend’s car.
If you have more than your car can handle, you may be able to get away with renting a less expensive alternative like a truck or a minivan.
But if you have a lot or you’re combining households, a full-size moving van is probably your best bet. A12-foot moving van is a good size for if it’s just you and your many possessions. On the other hand, a slightly larger 16-foot van is a better option if you’re combining households.
Are You Comfortable Driving A Moving Van?
An often overlooked factor for renting a moving van is your comfort with operating this vehicle.
Driving a moving van on busy, crowded and narrow city streets can be intimidating if you’re only used to operating a compact car.. If the thought of driving a large vehicle under these conditions makes you nervous, then renting a moving van may not be the best choice.
If you have a friend or family member who is more comfortable with driving a moving van in the city, it’s a good idea to ask them for help. Or you can contact a professional moving company to handle this task.
Where Can You Safely Park Your Moving Van?
Another thing you’ll have to consider before renting a moving van is where to safely and legally park it to onload your possessions.
If your apartment community has a dedicated, onsite parking lot, then you shouldn’t have any issues as long as you don’t block other residents’ cars or entryways.
However, if your new apartment building is in busy part of the city with minimal street parking, you’ll need to assess the situation:
- Does the area around your new apartment building have a parking space that’s convenient and large enough to accommodate the size of your moving van?
- Are there time limits for these parking spots?
- Are the street parking spots metered?
- Are trucks or large vans prohibited from parking on these streets?
Knowing the answers to these questions in advance may also help you decide the type of moving van you’ll need.
Does Your Moving Van Come With Any Helpful Accessories?
The last thing you want to consider before renting a moving van is determining if the vehicle includes helpful accessories such as furniture pads, blankets, tie-down straps and a hand truck.
Furniture pads and blankets help prevent your furniture from knicks and dings, while tie-down straps keep boxes and other possessions from falling over when turning corners and hitting bumps.
A hand truck helps you move heavy objects and multiple boxes without putting extra strain on your back.
Some moving vans include these accessories in their rental package. Others may offer these helpful accessories as an add-on package for an additional fee.
It’s best to confirm this information with the vendor before moving day.
Now You’re Ready To Rent A Moving Van!
Now you’re better prepared for renting a moving van!
If you’re moving to a new apartment in Brooklyn, we hope you’ll be joining us at 363 Bond Street apartments!
If you’re still looking for a new apartment in our Gowanus neighborhood, please contact us today to schedule a tour of our popular apartment community!