At All Star Movers & Storage, we specialize in navigating these challenges smoothly. With over 20 years of experience serving San Francisco, the Bay Area, Sacramento, and Central Valley communities, our team knows how to move efficiently while complying with every city and building requirement.
Understanding San Francisco Moving Requirements
Before moving day, both residents and businesses often need to secure specific permissions and paperwork. These requirements vary depending on the property type — residential or commercial — but all are designed to protect buildings, tenants, and movers alike.
1. Elevator Reservations
If your move involves a multi-story apartment, condo, or office building, chances are you’ll need to reserve a freight or service elevator in advance.
Most property managers require at least one week’s notice to book elevator access. Some buildings allow elevator use only during set moving windows — often between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. or weekends only. Elevators must typically be padded or covered to prevent damage during your move.
Pro tip: Always confirm your elevator reservation before moving day to avoid delays or last-minute rescheduling. Our team can coordinate with your property management directly to streamline this process.
2. Certificates of Insurance (COIs)
San Francisco buildings — especially commercial properties and high-rises — often require a Certificate of Insurance from your moving company. This document verifies that the mover is licensed and insured, protecting the building owner and tenant against potential damage.
At All Star Movers & Storage, we provide customized COIs for any building upon request. We work directly with your property management to ensure all insurance requirements are met before moving day, saving you the hassle of back-and-forth communication.
3. Parking and Access Permits
Because San Francisco’s streets are narrow and heavily trafficked, securing temporary parking permits or loading zone access is critical for moving trucks.
The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) issues temporary “No Parking” signs and permits for moving trucks. These must typically be requested at least 5 business days in advance. Without a permit, movers may have to park blocks away, adding unnecessary time and risk to your move.
We can help with parking logistics by advising on permit requests or handling the process for you if needed.
Residential Moving Logistics
Whether you’re moving into a SoMa loft, a Pacific Heights Victorian, or an apartment near Golden Gate Park, every San Francisco neighborhood has its quirks. Narrow staircases, limited access points, and strict HOA rules are common. That’s why professional movers who know the city’s architecture and traffic patterns make all the difference.
Our residential moving services include:
Pre-move coordination with building management and HOAs
Packing and protection for furniture and fragile items
Efficient loading/unloading in tight spaces
Disassembly and reassembly of furniture as needed
Because we understand local conditions — from steep hills to street cleaning schedules — we ensure your moving day runs smoothly and safely.
Commercial Moving Logistics
For San Francisco businesses, time is money. Whether relocating a law office in the Financial District or a tech workspace in SoMa, our commercial moving team focuses on minimizing downtime and maintaining compliance with building regulations.
We handle:
Elevator scheduling with property management
COI delivery for building approval
Weekend or after-hours moves to avoid business disruption
Packing and moving of IT and office equipment
Detailed move planning for smooth transitions
Additionally, our team is familiar with major San Francisco properties — including Embarcadero Center, Salesforce Tower, One Market Plaza, and The Flood Building — so we know exactly how to prepare for each location’s rules.
How All Star Movers Simplifies San Francisco Moves
Moving in San Francisco doesn’t have to be stressful. Our process is designed for organization, communication, and care:
Free On-Site or Virtual Estimate — We assess your space, timeline, and building logistics.
Pre-Move Coordination — We handle COIs, elevator reservations, and permit planning.
Professional Packing Services — Our trained crew packs efficiently and securely.
Safe Transport — We use modern, clean trucks with the right equipment for tight streets.
Unloading and Setup — Furniture and boxes are placed exactly where you want them.
Final Walkthrough and Follow-Up — We ensure everything meets your expectations.
Because we’re fully licensed, insured, and BBB-accredited, you can trust that your move is in expert hands from start to finish.
Tips for a Smooth San Francisco Move
Confirm building access and elevator reservations at least one week ahead.
Request your COI early to avoid move-day delays.
Apply for parking permits from SFMTA as soon as you set your date.
Label boxes by room to speed up unpacking.
Keep fragile or high-value items clearly marked for special handling.
With proper preparation — and the right moving team — your San Francisco relocation can be surprisingly simple.
Service Areas
All Star Movers & Storage proudly serves San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, Sacramento, Dublin, Pleasanton, Livermore, San Ramon, Danville, Walnut Creek, Hayward, Mountain House, Tracy, Modesto, and surrounding Bay Area and Central Valley communities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What happens if my building requires a COI but I forget to request it?
A: Many buildings will not allow movers inside without a valid COI. However, our office can typically send one directly to your property manager within 24 hours.
Q: Do you handle parking permits for San Francisco moves?
A: Yes, we can assist with SFMTA parking permits or guide you through the process.
Q: Can you move me on weekends or after business hours?
A: Absolutely. We offer flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate building restrictions and minimize disruption.
Moving in San Francisco requires experience, attention to detail, and strong coordination. At All Star Movers & Storage, we take care of every logistical challenge — from elevator access and certificates of insurance to parking permits and tight staircases — so you can focus on settling into your new space.
Call today at (925) 905-9889 to schedule your free estimate!